Simulation - not just for control and regulation
There are areas in systems engineering where simulation is used, especially for embedded systems. But the majority of systems engineers generally have little to do with simulation. This is a shame, as there is a lot of potential here. However, it must first be clarified what simulation actually is.
One Simulation is a procedure for analyzing systems. In order to be able to simulate, we need a model - which brings us back to one of my favorite topics.
We are familiar with simulations from everyday life, for example a flight simulator that pilots use to learn or weather simulations that are used for forecasting.
In a simulation, experiments are carried out with a model. The aim is often to investigate the dynamic behavior of the model in order to draw conclusions for the system to be developed. Because of the dynamic behavior, simulations are sometimes also referred to as "animation of a model".
Related constructs
There are similar approaches that are related to simulation. I reported on a keynote just last week on the topic of Minimal Viable Product (MVP). An MVP is not a simulation, but has a similar goal, namely to test feasibility.
A prototype, on the other hand, can be used for a simulation, but does not have to be.
As already mentioned, a model is a prerequisite for modeling. However, simulation is only One of many possible applications for a model.
Matlab and Simulink
When it comes to simulation, many experts think of Matlab and Simulink: Matlab is used to create the models and Simulink to animate them. The tools can be used in many areas, but have become particularly popular in control and regulation technology.
An important reason for this success could be that executable code can be generated from the model after a successful simulation.
Other areas of simulation
Simulations have also been used successfully for a long time in physics, for example in fluid mechanics and strength with the Finite element methodology (FME). There are many areas like this where simulation is used selectively.
In large corporations, attempts are also made to simulate holistically. The aviation industry in particular is leading the way here.
Holistic simulation not yet widespread
The potential is enormous, but at the moment the effort required for a holistic simulation is still very high. Nevertheless - or precisely because of this - I would like to present a 5-minute video of Willert that impressively demonstrates what holistic modeling, including simulation, can look like (simulation from 3:12 in the video).
Photo by Kristopher Allison on Unsplash
