Model-Based Design with Engee
Introduction
Modelling is the creation of a virtual representation of a real system.
Simulation is the computation of the behaviour of a system over some time interval, i.e. its state at each moment of that interval.
Modelling and simulation are valuable for testing a system under conditions that are difficult to reproduce with prototype equipment alone. This is especially true early in the design process when equipment is not yet available.
Short iterations of modelling and simulation improve the quality of early system development by reducing errors that would otherwise be detected at later stages.
C-code can also be automatically generated from the model. If the software implementation requirements for a specific hardware platform are formalised and specified, it is possible to create automated test benches based on it. Code generation saves time and prevents manual coding errors.
Model-Based Design functionality
In Model-Based Design (MBD), the system model is at the centre of the workflow. MBD enables fast and cost-effective development of dynamic systems, including control systems, signal processing systems and communication systems.
MBD enables:
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Use a common design environment for project teams.
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link projects directly to requirements.
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continually identify and correct errors by combining testing with design.
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refine algorithms using multi-domain modelling.
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automatically generate embedded programme code and documentation.
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develop and reuse test suites.
| System specifications | High-level design | Low-level design |
|---|---|---|
Requirements |
Completion of integration and testing |
System level design |
System integration and testing |
Subsystem design |
Subsystem integration and testing |
Example of model-based design workflow in Engee
To get started with a model-based design task, review this workflow.
The workflow in this article focuses on the fundamental Engee tasks as they relate to model-based design.
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System definition and layout - define modelling objectives, components, model structure.
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System modelling and verification - model and test components, integrate components, test the system.
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System design in Engee - design and test new components.