Exploiting cloud computing in the multi-physics design and optimisation of electromagnetic devices

Cloud computing is a type of distributed computing that enables public, on-demand network (internet) access to a large pool of shared computing resources, making it easier than ever to outsource computing tasks on a pay-as-you-go basis. In this paper, a cloud computing service is used to complement an existing high-fidelity multi-physics power inductor design workflow by enabling multiple instances of the design analysis to be executed in parallel on virtual computers in a cloud computing environment. This method accelerates the design development cycle and can allow a more thorough evaluation of the design space within a short time-frame, at a moderate cost and can potentially lead to improved designs. The modified workflow is demonstrated by the design optimisation of a high-energy-density filter inductor for an automotive application.