AdvancedTopic 78 of 102Manufacturing, Robotics & Systems
Modelling and simulation
Use virtual models to predict and refine behaviour.
In depth
Models and simulations predict behaviour before building: physics-based (FEA, CFD, circuit), system-level (Simulink, Modelica), discrete-event and agent-based. Verification (solved right?) and validation (right model?) build credibility. Use for design exploration, optimisation and virtual testing; know model limits.
Key points
- Fidelity vs cost
- Co-simulation
- Uncertainty quantification
ExampleA suspension is simulated across road profiles before prototype tests.
What is Modelling and simulation?
Use virtual models to predict and refine behaviour.
Why is it important to understand modelling and simulation?
Modelling and simulation test designs virtually, which saves time and money and lets engineers explore options that are costly to build.
What is model validation?
Comparing model predictions with real measurements to show that the model is accurate enough for its intended purpose.
What is the risk of simulation?
A wrong model or wrong inputs can give confident but incorrect results, so simulation must be checked against physical evidence.
How is Modelling and simulation used in practice?
Typical applications include simulating the crash performance of a car before building a prototype, modelling the thermal behaviour of a battery pack under fast charging and testing a control algorithm in simulation before using it on a robot.
What should I learn before Modelling and simulation?
Study "Trade studies" first (topic 77 of 102 in Manufacturing, Robotics & Systems). It covers the groundwork this topic builds on.
What are the key points of Modelling and simulation?
Fidelity vs cost. Co-simulation. Uncertainty quantification.
Can you give an example of Modelling and simulation?
A suspension is simulated across road profiles before prototype tests.
What comes after Modelling and simulation?
The next topic is "Digital twins", which builds directly on this one.
How difficult is Modelling and simulation?
It is classed as Advanced in Manufacturing, Robotics & Systems (topic 78 of 102). It is an advanced topic. It assumes you are comfortable with the intermediate topics in Manufacturing, Robotics & Systems.