Integral for Current through an Inductor -- Not Working

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the current through an inductor using the integral relationship between voltage and current. Participants are addressing a homework problem that involves verifying calculations and plotting results using LTspice, focusing on the correct application of integration techniques in the context of a non-constant voltage across the inductor.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about obtaining a current value that does not match the expected graph, indicating a potential error in their integration approach.
  • Another participant questions the validity of integrating a constant voltage when the voltage across the inductor varies over the specified time interval.
  • A subsequent reply suggests breaking the voltage vs time equation into piecewise continuous sections for integration.
  • Another participant affirms the correctness of the equation but emphasizes the need to perform the integral correctly, suggesting a focus on the "area" under the voltage curve.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correct method for integration, with multiple competing views on how to approach the problem. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific steps needed to accurately calculate the current.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions made about the voltage across the inductor, particularly its non-constant nature during the integration period. The discussion also highlights the need for clarity on how to handle piecewise functions in the context of integration.

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Homework Statement


[/B]
Calculate, and plot along with (on the same plot) the voltage seen below, the current flowing in the following circuit using the integral relationship between the voltage across an inductor and the current through the inductor. Verify your hand calculations and plot using LTspice.
1OAfhV2VSUxy7Crjkpf0IEg9f5vMlkDbY_OBrxWF5zXBbFmRvDcS2_bzXBivVw6N4gesxoSPrVJlorNcbzWya3kcxrrO1J3o.png


Homework Equations


I = Io+1/L ⋅ ∫Vdτ

The Attempt at a Solution


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So I am obviously doing this incorrectly because the current I obtain from solving the integral doesn't match the graph. For example, If I want the current from time 100μs - 200μs:

I = 0 + 1/400μH∫1dτ = 250mA

250mA is too high according to the graph. Where am I going wrong here?
 

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    1OAfhV2VSUxy7Crjkpf0IEg9f5vMlkDbY_OBrxWF5zXBbFmRvDcS2_bzXBivVw6N4gesxoSPrVJlorNcbzWya3kcxrrO1J3o.png
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    QqJ31FPoIC8kuGiMRRIDq6VH4D-EH8cSxMVWrmdNJiIN1TvMJICJwzXoIyk1EmjnY1nMCg0WCL0hhXL74HYOn0zECdAkkm0F.png
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Why are you integrating a constant when the voltage across the inductor isn't constant over that time interval?
 
Good question. So what equation do I use to figure the current through the inductor?
 
You need to break up the voltage vs time equation into piecewise continuous sections and integrate over each piece.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: DaveE
You have the correct equation, you just need to do the integral correctly. It may help to think of finding the "area" (volts*sec) under the voltage curve.
 
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Likes   Reactions: gneill

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