ELK 107E, Introduction to Sci. & Eng.

Computation (Python), spring 2016-2017

Homework # 1
Multi-layer parallel plate electrodes are used in several high voltage applications. The following
figure shows a 4-layer parallel plate electrode system. Maximum electric field strengths for the
first, the second, the third, and the forth layers are Ed1 = 100 kV/cm, Ed2 = 30 kV/cm, Ed3 = 80
kV/cm, and Ed4 = 60 kV/cm, respectively.

U = 200 kV

Layer-1 1 = 2 U1, E1 a1 = 2 cm

Layer-2 2 = 1 U2, E2 a2 = 2 cm

Layer-3 3 = 3 U3, E3 a3 = 1 cm

Layer-4 4 = 4 U4, E4 a4 = 4 cm

Figure. 4-layer parallel plate electrode system.

Electric potential corresponding to the kth layer is;

ak U
Uk =
k A

Electric field strengths corresponding to the kth layer is;

1 U
Ek =
k A

where;
4
ak
A=
k
k=1

If the calculated electric field, Ek, is greater than the maximum electric field strength of the layer,
Edk, there is a discharge (short-circuit) in the kth layer. If there is a discharge in kth layer, consider
that layer as a short-circuit, and recalculate the electric field strengths for the remaining layers, by
using similar approach. The complete discharge occurs in the whole electrode system if all the
layers are discharged.
In accordance with the information given above;

a) Draw an algorithm flowchart to determine the electrical potential and the electric field
strengths, corresponding to each layer of the 4-layer parallel plate electrode system.
Indicate the discharge condition of the electrode system. The parameters (k , ak, Edk, and
U ) will be inputted by the user. (40 pts.)
b) Write a Python code for this purpose. (60 pts.)

Due Date: March 26, 2017.

Note:
- Submit your homework to the ninova system until the deadline (assign a file name, such
as suat_ilhan.py).
- Homeworks will not be considered if they are sent by e-mail.