The generalized linear complementarity problem applied to the complete analysis of resistive piecewise-linear circuits

An important application of complementarity theory consists in solving sets of piecewise-linear equations and hence in the analysis of piecewise-linear resistive circuits. The authors show how a generalized version of the linear complementarity problem can be used to analyze a broad class of piecewise-linear circuits. Nonlinear resistors that are neither voltage nor current controlled can be allowed, and no restrictions on the linear part of the circuit have to be made. As a second contribution, the authors describe an algorithm for the solution of the generalized complementarity problem and show how it can be applied to yield a complete description of the DC solution set as well as of driving-point and transfer characteristics