Introduction to Physical Modeling using Simscape

As complex systems have numerous parts interacting with each other, they are difficult to model. Mathematical models can be used to model these complex systems, and provide an understanding of how they function. By using Simscape, engineers can develop physical models, model control systems, and test performance at the system level. It is important for learners to understand complex system modeling using Simulink, and physical system modeling using Simscape.

This week will cover

• Importance of mathematical modeling
• Block diagram approach & model-based design for engineering systems
• Basics of the Simulink environment
• Creating a simple model
• Obtaining results
• Basics of various Simulink toolboxes

Simscape is used to develop models that represent physical systems in the Simulink environment. It also lets users assess system-level performance. When setting up a model for simulation on Simulink, there are specific configurations to be followed. It is important for learners to understand how to model and configure simulations using Simscape.

This week will cover

• How models run in Simulink
• Types of solvers
• Model configuration
• Continuous & discrete-time systems
• Timestep
• Solving ordinary differential equations (ODEs)
• Physical modeling using Simscape

Simulink and MATLAB are closely integrated as Simulink models can be developed, solved, and interacted with by using MATLAB scripts. These script files have a series of statements with commands and functions that can be carried out at runtime. Simulink models can also access the MATLAB Base Workspace and Model Workspace to identify required parameters. It is important for learners to understand how MATLAB and Simulink are interfaced.

This week will cover

• Using a script file with Simulink models
• Creating a subsystem
• Variant subsystem
• Projects
• Template
• Lookup tables
• Running simulation in steps

Stateflow is used to elaborate on how MATLAB and Simulink respond to events, time-based variables, and input signals. It is a graphical programming platform based on finite state machines that can be used by engineers to design control logic. It is important for learners to understand the use of Stateflow in engineering applications.

This week will cover

• Control logic for engineering applications
• Using a finite state machine
• Making logic diagrams