Simulation of Dynamical Systems with Interval Analysis: A case study of RLC Circuit

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates how interval analysis can improve the accuracy of dynamical system simulations, specifically for RLC circuits, by accounting for uncertainties and aligning simulations more closely with experimental results.

Contribution

It introduces a case study applying interval analysis to simulate an RLC circuit, showing improved correspondence with laboratory data and potential educational benefits.

Findings

Simulation ranges encompass experimental results

Interval analysis reduces discrepancies between simulation and experiment

Technique shows promise for engineering education

Abstract

Differences between computer simulation of dynamical systems and laboratory experiments are common in teaching and research in engineering. Normally, numerical inaccuracy and the non-ideal behaviour of the devices involved in the experiment are the most common explanations. With the application of interval analysis, it is possible to incorporate the numerical and parametric uncertainties in the simulation, allowing a better understanding of the play between simulation and experiment. This article presents a case study in which an step input is applied to an RLC circuit. Using the toolbox Intlab for Matlab, it was possible to present a computer simulation with the range that encompasses the experimental results . Comparison of simulation with experimental data show the success of the technique and indicates a potential content to be delivered to undergraduate engineering courses.