Importance of Interface Variables for Closed-Loop Circuit EMC Co-Simulation Using WR Method

This article highlights the importance of interface variables (IVs) for closed-loop co-simulating power converter controllers and electrical circuits using waveform relaxation (WR). The method enhances co-simulation performance and stability by adjusting relaxation parameters in parallel with the behavioral source. Testing is conducted on a buck converter circuit with an input voltage ranging from 4 to 6 V and an output voltage of 3.3 V. Comparative analysis with conventional WR indicates a voltage difference of less than 1.8% between direct and measured values after 24 iterations and 38.25 s elapsed time. An assessment of the suitability of this method to evaluate the conducted electromagnetic immunity of the converter is also provided. These results highlight the proposed method’s ability to achieve faster and more accurate convergence compared to traditional WR methods.

I. Introduction

In modern design systems, manufacturers face the challenge of complying with standards regulating parasitic emissions and exposure to electromagnetic (EM) fields, while ensuring the proper functioning of equipment in environments [1]. Future systems, need to address vulnerability to EM aggression, which can lead to dysfunction or facilitate spying on vehicle status [2]. Evaluating EM disturbance levels from the design phase is crucial, with ongoing development of predictive models [3]. Despite advancements in system-oriented modeling, direct simulation using existing tools remains challenging due to multiscale problems, high costs, and model availability issues in the automotive industry [4].