Real-Time Simulation

What Is Real-Time Simulation?

Real-time simulation and testing extends beyond simulation by verifying algorithmic design behavior while running models at required speeds, respecting precise timing requirements. The executing model is connected to sensors, actuators, and other hardware. Real-time simulation and testing encompasses rapid control prototyping, DSP and vision system prototyping, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation.

Rapid Control Prototyping

Real Time Simulation - Rapid Control Prototyping

You can test a control system design running on target computer hardware while it is connected to your physical plant or system. (The target computer hardware acts as your controller.)

Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulation

Real Time Simulation - Hardware-in-the-loop

You can test your controller hardware, which can include a production or embedded controls implementation, using a simulation of your plant or system. (Here, the target computer acts as your physical plant or system.)

Real-time simulation and testing enables you to:

  • Refine and verify the functional operation of control system designs with your hardware
  • Continuously explore and test new ideas using a flexible, scalable platform
  • Test control system hardware even when a physical plant or system is unavailable
  • Investigate scenarios and hardware interactions that are complex, expensive, or dangerous to perform with production hardware
  • Avoid costly design flaws by detecting errors early when they are still cost-effective to correct
  • For details on working with target computer hardware, see Simulink Real-Time™, Speedgoat Target Hardware and Simulink Desktop Real-Time™

See also: rapid prototyping for embedded control systems, HIL simulation for embedded systems, real-time testing videos, hardware-in-the-loop simulation