Emulator of a Boost Converter for Educational Purposes

Paula Lamo,Christian Brañas,Ángel De Castro,Francisco J Azcondo

doi:10.3390/electronics9111883

Abstract

Project-based learning (PBL) is proposed for the development of a Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) platform and the design of its digital controller for an undergraduate course on Digital Electronic Systems. The objective for students is the design of a digitally controlled HIL Boost converter, a digital pulse-width modulator (DPWM) and a current mode controller, implemented in field-programmable gate array (FPGA) devices. To this end, the different parts of the project are developed and evaluated, maximizing the use of FPGA resources in the design of the HIL and DPWM blocks, and applying design techniques that minimize the use of the digital resources used in the design of the controller. Students are equipped with a new individualized educational experience, allowing them to test their technical competence and knowledge in an environment close to the reality of the industry.

Highlights

Engineering curricula must incorporate contents that have jumped from scientific knowledge to emerging technologies in industry in order for the graduates to adapted to present competitive design methods [1]
Two field-programmable gate array (FPGA) have been used to carry out the final verification stage: a Nexys 4DDR (XC7A100T-1CSG324C) and an Arty-Z7 (XC7Z010-1CLG400C)
A Digital Electronic Systems course focused on project-based learning (PBL) is proposed to level students with different backgrounds

Summary

Introduction

Engineering curricula must incorporate contents that have jumped from scientific knowledge to emerging technologies in industry in order for the graduates to adapted to present competitive design methods [1]. The increase in the complexity of electronic systems, and the need to combine multidisciplinary concepts in a short time and a cost-effective way, have encouraged the search for new techniques for their development and testing, such as mixed signal simulators [9], simulators with analog and mixed signal extensions [10], or using two simulators at the same time—one that simulates the plant and the other the controller of that plant [11]. These techniques are slow and complex to develop [12].

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Results

Conclusion