Abstract: | Utilizing the demonstrated capability of nonlinear programming algorithms, a practical design optimization approach for power converters is established which allows conception of a design to meet all power-circuit performance requirements and concurrently optimize a defined quantity such as weight or losses. In addition to facilitating a costeffective design, the computer-aided approach provides a means to readily assess 1) the weight-efficiency tradeoff, 2) impacts of converter requirements and component characteristics on a given design, and 3) optimum powersystem configurations. |