This thesis analyzes the procedural approach and benefits of applying optimization techniques to the design of a boost power factor correction (PFC) converter with an input electromagnetic interference (EMI) filter at the component level. The analysis is performed based on the particular minimum cost design study of a 1.15 kW unit satisfying a set of specifications.
A traditional design methodology is initially analyzed and employed to obtain a first design. A continuous design optimization is then formulated and solved to gain insight into the converter design tradeoffs and particularities. Finally, a discrete optimization approach using a genetic algorithm is defined to develop a completely automated user-friendly software design tool able to provide in a short period of time globally optimum designs of the system for different sets of specifications. The software design tool is then employed to optimize the system design, and the savings with respect to the traditional design methodology are highlighted.
The optimization problem formulation in both the continuous and discrete cases is presented in detail. The system design variables, objective function (system component cost) and constraints are identified. The objective function is expressed as a function of the design variables. A computationally efficient and experimentally validated model of the system, including second-order effects, allows the constraint values (also as a function of the design variables) to be obtained.
