Time‐Domain Simulator for Nonuniform Transmission Lines: An Educational Tool

ABSTRACT The study of transmission lines is a key topic in electrical and electronic engineering education. However, their theoretical formulation can be complex, often hindering students' understanding of the underlying physical phenomena. In contrast, transmission lines exhibit intuitive and engaging behaviors. To address this challenge, we developed a MATLAB‐based time‐domain simulator capable of modeling both uniform and non‐uniform transmission lines, including lossy ones. We present engaging results that demonstrate the simulator's pedagogical value, particularly when varying line parameters. By interacting with the simulator, students can explore how input conditions affect the line behavior. Through direct experimentation, they build physical intuition of abstract phenomena, such as wave reflection, forward and reverse waves, and the Heaviside condition. The simulator relies on simple concepts, accessible to undergraduate students, who are even encouraged to implement key parts of the script themselves.

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Publication Details

Journal
Computer Applications in Engineering Education
Published
2026-05-31
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1002/cae.70206
Primary Topic
Experimental Learning in Engineering
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
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article

Time‐Domain Simulator for Nonuniform Transmission Lines: An Educational Tool

Massimiliano Comisso, Giulia Buttazzoni, F. Vatta, F. Babich et al.
Computer Applications in Engineering Education
Experimental Learning in Engineering
article

Time‐Domain Simulator for Nonuniform Transmission Lines: An Educational Tool

Massimiliano Comisso, Giulia Buttazzoni, F. Vatta, F. Babich, Ruben Tic
article en

Abstract

ABSTRACT The study of transmission lines is a key topic in electrical and electronic engineering education. However, their theoretical formulation can be complex, often hindering students' understanding of the underlying physical phenomena. In contrast, transmission lines exhibit intuitive and engaging behaviors. To address this challenge, we developed a MATLAB‐based time‐domain simulator capable of modeling both uniform and non‐uniform transmission lines, including lossy ones. We present engaging results that demonstrate the simulator's pedagogical value, particularly when varying line parameters. By interacting with the simulator, students can explore how input conditions affect the line behavior. Through direct experimentation, they build physical intuition of abstract phenomena, such as wave reflection, forward and reverse waves, and the Heaviside condition. The simulator relies on simple concepts, accessible to undergraduate students, who are even encouraged to implement key parts of the script themselves.

Computer Applications in Engineering EducationVol. 34(4)
University of Trieste (IT)
Quality Education
Openalex Percentile: Top 5%
Experimental Learning in Engineering
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