The MathWorks Introduces Simscape for Physical Modeling

New language capability enables definition of physical domains and components for developing mechatronic and other multidomain systems in Simulink.

by DE Editors | Published October 14, 2008

Using the new Simscape language to create a custom model of an ultracapacitor with losses: the equation is implemented in the Simscape language and the Simulink block and dialog box are created automatically from the Simscape file.

The MathWorks (Natick, MA) announced the availability of the Simscape language, a new capability that enables textual authoring of physical modeling components, domains, and libraries in the Simulink environment. The new language is included in Simscape, which extends Simulink for modeling and simulating mechatronic and other multidomain physical systems using a physical network, or acausal modeling, approach.

The new Simscape language, based on the widely used MATLAB language, enables engineers to develop reusable models of components and systems for rapidly advancing technologies, such as fuel cells, wind power systems, and hybrid electric vehicles. With this new capability, Simscape can be extended by end users and partners to create and share reusable models, thereby raising the efficiency of teams and improving communication.

With these shared physical models, design teams can simulate system behavior more accurately, develop more robust control strategies, perform design tradeoffs, and find system performance errors early in the development process. Companies can explore more design options and help reduce the cost of testing, as errors are found in simulation rather than requiring hardware prototypes.

As systems grow in complexity and require the integration of additional technologies, such as with mechatronics systems, engineers need simulation tools that span electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and other physical domains. Now engineers can work in a single environment by combining Simscape with domain-specific physical modeling tools from The MathWorks (SimElectronics, SimMechanics, SimDriveline, SimHydraulics, and SimPowerSystems), and avoid the complex task of setting up cosimulation.

The Simscape language is available immediately as part of the Simscape product. Simscape requires MATLAB and Simulink (each sold separately). Prices start at $2,000.

For further information on Simscape, please visit The MathWorks.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.

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