Introducing Undergraduate Electrical Engineering Students to Chaotic Dynamics: Computer Simulations with Logistic Map and Buck Converter

Abstract

In current undergraduate electrical engineering, the emphasis on linear systems develops a way of thinking that dismisses nonlinear dynamics as spurious oscillations. The linear systems approach oversimplifies the dynamics of nonlinear systems. This paper helps students understand chaotic behavior using simulations of a continuous-time circuit, DC-DC buck converter and a discrete-time system - logistic map. The undergraduate students and teachers can recognize the educational value of chaotic phenomena from them. Practicing engineers will also have more insight of nonlinear circuits and systems by having an exposure to chaotic dynamics.