Non-Linear Inductor Models Comparison for Switched-Mode Power Supplies Applications

The use of non-linear power inductors, intended as devices exploited up to a current at which the inductance is halved, is of great interest in switched-mode power supplies (SMPSs). Indeed, it allows the use of lighter and cheaper inductors improving the power density. On the other hand, the analysis of SMPSs equipped with non-linear inductors requires appropriate modeling of the inductor reproducing the inductance versus current. This paper compares two main analytical models proposed in the literature: the former is based on a polynomial, and the latter exploits the arctangent function to reproduce the non-linearity of the inductance. Performance is compared by considering the effort of retrieving the model’s parameters, evaluating a current profile by the characteristic equation of the inductor, and exploiting the two models to simulate a switched-mode power supply. Results are given both in terms of computation time and accuracy with reference to experimental values, highlighting the pros and cons of each model.