Nonlinear model order reduction for the fast solution of induction heating problems in time-domain

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a fast and accurate simulation of large-scale induction heating problems by using nonlinear reduced-order models.

Design/methodology/approach

A projection space for model order reduction (MOR) is quickly generated from the first kernels of Volterra’s series to the problem solution. The nonlinear reduced model can be solved with time-harmonic phasor approximation, as the nonlinear quadratic structure of the full problem is preserved by the projection.

Findings

The solution of induction heating problems is still computationally expensive, even with a time-harmonic eddy current approximation. Numerical results show that the construction of the nonlinear reduced model has a computational cost which is orders of magnitude smaller than that required for the solution of the full problem.

Research limitations/implications

Only linear magnetic materials are considered in the present formulation.

Practical implications

The proposed MOR approach is suitable for the solution of industrial problems with a computing time which is orders of magnitude smaller than that required for the full unreduced problem, solved by traditional discretization methods such as finite element method.

Originality/value

The most common technique for MOR is the proper orthogonal decomposition. It requires solving the full nonlinear problem several times. The present MOR approach can be built directly at a negligible computational cost instead. From the reduced model, magnetic and temperature fields can be accurately reconstructed in whole time and space domains.

Citation

Codecasa, L., Moro, F. and Alotto, P. (2017), "Nonlinear model order reduction for the fast solution of induction heating problems in time-domain", COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering, Vol. 36 No. 2, pp. 469-475. https://doi.org/10.1108/COMPEL-05-2016-0215