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Case Study: RC Airplane System
Case Study #5 integrates technologies discussed in Case Studies 1 to 4 into a complete unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system. This UAV example illustrates the diverse capabilities of both SystemVision and the VHDL-AMS modeling language. The following topics are highlighted: interfacing the command and control and rudder systems; analyzing system power supply effects; designing the propeller system; and implementing a human controller into the overall system.
Case Study: Communications System
Case Study #4 focuses on RF communications. A communications block is developed which transmits digitally encoded data using frequency modulation (FM) techniques, and then recovers the data at a remote location. The key component in this communication system is the receiver's detector. In this case study, we use SystemVision with VHDL-AMS to consider two common detector architectures.
Case Study: DC-DC Power Converter
Case Study #3 illustrates how VHDL-AMS can be used for the detailed design of a 42V to 4.8V DC-DC switching power supply. We briefly introduce switched-mode power supply theory, and then perform a detailed design of a simple step-down (buck) converter using SystemVision. We discuss averaging techniques that facilitate analysis of the closed-loop system and run additional simulations to perform system-level design tradeoffs.
Case Study: Mixed-Technology Focus
Case Study #2 highlights VHDL-AMS as a mixed-technology, mixed-domain modeling language by focusing on a servo-controlled mechanical actuator. SystemVision is used to represent the system at various levels of abstraction: We first implement the entire servo-controlled mechanical actuator exclusively in the s-domain. After verifying top-level system requirements, we refine parts of the system using conservation-based electro-mechanical components in which we model true physical characteristics of the system. Finally, we realize the servo compensator portion of the design in the z-domain, using VHDL-AMS, so that the algorithms for a firmware implementation can be explored.
Case Study: Mixed-Signal Focus
Case Study #1 illustrates the use of SystemVision with VHDL-AMS for the design and analysis of a mixed-signal data transmission system. In this system, analog command signals are digitized, serially encoded, and transmitted over a radio frequency (RF) link. The transmitted data is then detected, decoded, and converted back into analog signals at a remote location. In essence, this system constitutes a wireless communications link. Analog-to-digital (A/D) and digital-to-analog (D/A) signal conversions are emphasized to illustrate mixed-signal modeling with VHDL-AMS.
SystemVision for Embedded Mechatronic Systems - an Overview
The low cost of microcontrollers makes them increasingly popular for electronic control of a wide range of embedded systems. An embedded mixed-signal or mechatronic system is one that uses a microcontroller to control some physical aspect of the system such as motion, speed, temperature, and so forth. The added dimension of software presents a significant challenge to the design, integration and verification of this class of systems.This paper provides an overview of how SystemVision by Mentor Graphics can be used for the design and verification of embedded mechatronic systems. SystemVision utilizes the IEEE standard VHDL-AMS language as the key technology for describing the behavior of the physical hardware along with the controlling software algorithm. The resulting unified system model provides invaluable insight to the system engineer throughout the design process.
The Fundamentals of VHDL-AMS for Automotive Electrical Systems Modeling
The Fundamentals of VHDL-AMS for Automotive Electrical Systems Modeling course is designed as an example-driven VHDL-AMS modeling jump-start for the mixed-signal/mixed-technology modeling community. It is focused on only those VHDL-AMS language features/capabilities which will prove most valuable to this community. As a result, the course is concise and to the point, and can be completed in one day.The course has been designed with the automotive electrical community in mind. However, familiarity with automotive design issues is not required. The course can also be completed without any prior simulation experience. Only general knowledge of electrical engineering principles is required to benefit from the course.
This course covers the following topics:
VHDL-AMS Structure and Syntax overview This section provides basic language background information. It is most useful to those who intend to become proficient in the language.
Analog Modeling This section discusses basic techniques for modeling continuous (analog) behaviors, often described by simultaneous equations.
Digital Modeling This section covers techniques for modeling discrete, event-driven behaviors, often described by truth tables.
Mixed-Signal Modeling This section discusses detection of analog thresholds, digital events, and how to combine mixed analog/digital behaviors in models.
Mixed-Technology and Application-specific Extensions This section introduces concepts which allow the VHDL-AMS language to be extended beyond its general functionality, so models can be customized models for specific application areas, such as automotive electrical systems. Also included in the course are three lab exercises, which can be run with the SystemVision analysis platform software. These labs are oriented around automotive electrical modeling designs, and provide working examples for the topics covered in the course.
Improving Collaboration in Automotive System Design
Automotive system design processes cross multiple boundaries that impede the flow of design information. These include:
Corporate IP boundaries due to the multi-tiered supply chain
Communication boundaries due to globally distributed design centers
Technology specialization boundaries due to the multi-discipline nature of automotive systems
The IEEE Standard 1076.1 (VHDL-AMS) hardware description language provides important new modeling capabilities that can help automotive system designers bridge these boundaries. These capabilities include:
Flexible IP protection through model abstraction
Unambiguous language-based design description
Inter-disciplinary content representation
This paper provides a brief introduction to VHDL-AMS for system modeling and its many benefits for distributed design processes. When combined with a multi-language simulator, it provides the basis for effective communication and utilization of design information. The broad deployment of this modeling and simulation technology will greatly improve collaboration among automotive system designers in the 21st Century.
SystemVision for Embedded Mechatronic Systems - Hardware Modeling
The low cost of microcontrollers makes them increasingly popular for electronic control of a wide range of embedded systems. An embedded mixed-signal or mechatronic system is one that uses a microcontroller to control some physical aspect of the system such as motion, speed, and temperature. The added dimension of software presents a significant challenge to the design, integration and verification of this class of systems. This paper will discuss how the IEEE standard VHDL-AMS language can be used to describe the behavior of the heterogeneous hardware technologies typically present in embedded mechatronic systems. SystemVision by Mentor Graphics utilizes VHDL-AMS as the key technology for the design and verification of these systems.
Verification of Mechatronic Systems with µC Control
Read this article from
Automotive Electronics + Systeme
to learn about verification of mechatronic systems with µC control.
Deutsch: Verifikation mechatronischer Systeme mit µC-Steuerung
Lesen sie mehr über die Verifikation Mikrocontroller-gesteuerter, mechatronischer Systeme im Artikel "Automotive Electronics + Systeme".
System Modeling: An Introduction
This paper introduces a systematic process for developing and analyzing system models for the purpose of computer simulation. This process is demonstrated using the Digitally-Controlled Positioning System (referred to as "Position Controller").
Motion Control System Design with Multi-Language Simulation Tools - Parts 1 and 2
While various analysis options for motion control systems have been available for many years, only multi-language simulation can completely handle the diverse modeling requirements of motion control systems in a "holistic" manner. This approach allows for rapid development of new models using hardware description languages (HDLs) which go beyond the capabilities of SPICE yet still supports the use of existing SPICE models.In this two-part paper, an induction motor control system is fully developed and analyzed using a multi-language design and analysis tool suite. This type of system can be found in many applications, including aerospace, industrial control, and electric/hybrid-electric vehicles. We will discuss field-oriented control techniques in detail and develop VHDL-AMS induction motor models using conservation-based behavioral and math-based block diagram approaches. We also verify the functionality of our field-oriented control approach using the behavioral motor model. We then partition the DSP Controller subsystem into those pieces which will be implemented in hardware and those that will be implemented in software. We then simulate Z-domain transfer functions along with actual C software algorithms for overall system analysis.In additional to the paper, design files required to analyze the systems discussed are included. This zip file also contains an additional file (pdf) which gives brief simulation instructions for using SystemVision, Mentor Graphics mixed-signal modeling and simulation environment.
Design Team Collaboration within a Modeling and Analysis Environment
Heterogeneous system development poses many challenges for conventional design tools. The development is complex because it incorporates so many different technologies within a single design. This could include analog and digital electronics and a variety of physical sensors and actuators. To design these systems using modern techniques requires modeling, simulation, and analysis capabilities that encompass a wide range of abstractions and techniques, including boolean logic, differential equations, S- and Z-domain transfer functions and software algorithms.
This paper discusses the development of a sophisticated heterogeneous system, an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle. It will show how design team members working on a complex project can effectively collaborate using a common modeling and analysis environment, SystemVision. SystemVision is built upon a multi-language foundation that accepts SPICE, VHDL-AMS, and C formats. You will see how SystemVision enhances team communication and allows team members to:
Leverage existing models from multiple sources
Develop new multi-technology models using standardized formats that promote industry adoption and re-use
Integrate and test software with the hardware upon which it will be implemented
Mechatronic System Modeling and Simulation Techniques
Mechatronic system designs are complex by nature, and are becoming more so all the time. Not only has the typical system design grown in overall size to accommodate ever-increasing demands for functionality and performance, but these designs must fluently integrate analog and digital hardware, as well as the software that controls it. This has presented daunting challenges for design teams. And at the same time design teams are scrambling to keep up with these new challenges, there is increased pressure to reduce development cycle time.In order to keep pace with these new realities, new processes and development tools are required. In particular, the development and intelligent use of computer models of these complex systems--once considered a luxury--are becoming critical components to the success of the overall development process. This paper presents a brief introduction to the development of mechatronic system models for computer simulation and analysis.
Automotive CAN Bus Signal Integrity Design
The IEEE Standard 1076.1 (VHDL-AMS) provides hardware modeling
capabilities that are well suited for Controller Area Network (CAN)
signal integrity analysis. This includes modeling the analog, digital
and mixed-signal aspects of the transceivers, as well as the behavior of
twisted-pair transmission lines, connectors and other components of the
CAN Physical Layer. This paper presents various modeling approaches
applicable to the key hardware components of a CAN bus. It also provides
examples of simulation-based techniques for CAN signal integrity design,
including:
Analyzing static and dynamic features of transceivers, lines and
other components
Examining termination strategies
Characterizing data delay vs. intermediate-node stub-length
Assessing Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) protection capability of
Transient Voltage Suppression (TVS) components
How to Model Mechatronic Systems using VHDL-AMS
The general concept of computer simulation is to use a computer to predict the behavior of a system that is to be developed. To achieve this goal, a system model of the real system is created. This system model is then used to predict actual system performance and to help make effective design decisions. This booklet introduces practical guidelines and specific techniques for developing and analyzing complex systems with the aid of computer simulation.
LVDT/RVDT Sensor Modeling and Signal Conditioning Design
This paper shows how the IEEE Standard 1076.1 (VHDL-AMS) hardware description language was used to create versatile models of LVDT and RVDT sensors. These models can be used to support the design or selection of suitable signal conditioning circuits or algorithms for specific applications. Signal conditioning is a key aspect of LVDT and RVDT sensing systems, with a strong impact on meeting measurement accuracy requirements. In the design example, the effects of a long cable, between a remote LVDT sensor and its associated signal conditioning circuitry, are examined. Measurement error due to cable length and temperature changes, as well as signal conditioning circuit variations, is analyzed. The design process leverages SystemVision's parametric analysis capability to make important signal conditioning and system design trade-offs.
Mini-Baja Traction Control System-Mechatronics Modeling
A versatile new modeling technology was used to help design an innovative traction control system. Using models written exclusively in the IEEE standard VHDL-AMS language, simulation-based analysis and verification were performed at both the component/subsystem and at the overall system levels. Key insights were gained about a wide range of design issues, from the critical need to bleed the brake lines, to power converter topology trade-offs, to detecting inherent wheel lock-up modes in the control algorithm. This paper presents modeling and simulation techniques applicable to a wide range of automotive "mechatronic" systems, where coordinated interaction of mechanical, electronic, and software components is required to meet performance goals.
Improving Automotive EE Design with SystemVision
Gaps exist at critical junctures in the design process that work against creation of intelligent automotive electronic systems and networks capable of providing advanced functionality while remaining cost effective, reliable, and durable. Ultimately, encumbrances in the design process lead to systems characterized by quality problems in both hardware and software that are placing a heavy warranty cost burden on manufacturers. This paper illustrates gaps in the design process, discusses their effects on efforts to solve engineering problems, and examines how product quality and cost are affected. Finally, an approach is suggested that enhances control of design processes and improves decision making in view of an understanding of the diverse systems that make up the whole vehicle, while saving time, improving quality, and helping to control costs.
Combining ModelSim and Simulink in an Integrated Simulation Environment
Multi-technology system development poses many challenges for conventional design tools. Multi-technology designs are complex because they can incorporate many different technologies within a single system. These systems typically include analog (continuous) and digital (discrete) effects, often spread across several areas of engineering specialization. As a result, such systems are commonly designed and verified with a combination of CAD/CAE tools. Simulation environments that can directly use such tools as resources for system-level design and verification are essential for two main reasons: 1) to allow the integration of individual components and subsystems into a single, simulatable system, and 2) to allow effective communication and design collaboration among individuals involved in the development of such systems. This paper discusses one such environment, the SystemVision Modeling Solution. SystemVision has the ability to effectively integrate compiled ModelSim libraries, Simulink block diagrams, and additional multi-technology design elements into a single simulatable system. This was demonstrated by developing an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) system with the combined power of these tools.
DO-254 Compliant Design and Verification with VHDL-AMS
The functionality and performance of modern military and aerospace systems has become heavily influenced by their electronic content. Consequently, selecting the right electronic components and choosing the optimal design methodology is vital in developing a successful product. The flexibility and capabilities of new digital components is still growing exponentially. The potential of these devices, however, cannot be fully (and safely) utilized without incorporating the latest design and verification methodologies. Design methodologies for mil-aero applications must consider the complexities of mechatronic systems. The VHDL-AMS language is an undiscovered asset for mil-aero digital designers - a powerful tool to define and verify safety-critical requirements in a non-digital context. This paper discusses the use of VHDL-AMS for safety-critical digital systems.Lit Number: TECH7810-w
CAN Bus Signal Integrity Design
VHDL-AMS (IEEE Standard 1076.1) provides hardware modeling capabilities that are well suited for CAN signal integrity analysis. This includes modeling the analog, digital and mixed-signal aspects of the transceivers, as well as the behavior of twisted-pair transmission lines, connectors and other components of the CAN Physical Layer. SystemVision supports both VHDL-AMS as well as traditional Spice modeling methods. This paper presents various modeling approaches applicable to the key hardware components of a CAN bus. It also provides examples of simulation-based techniques for CAN signal integrity design.
BridgePoint UML Suite
Agile MDA
MDA is a broad church covering a number of different approaches to model-driven development. Most commonly, people think of models as blueprints that are filled in with code, so MDA is commonly viewed as supporting "heavyweight" process-heavy modeling techniques; but MDA can do better than this.Agile MDA is based on the notion that code and executable models are operationally the same. Hence, the principles of the Agile Alliance-testing first, immediate execution, racing down the chain from analysis to implementation in short cycles, for example-can be applied equally to models. An executable model, because it is executable, can be constructed, run, tested and modified in short incremental, iterative cycles.To reach this happy state, models must be complete enough that they can be executed standing alone. There are no "analysis" or "design" models; rather, different models capture independent aspects of the system. Models are linked together, rather than transformed, and they are then all mapped to a single combined model that is then translated into code according to a single system architecture. This approach to MDA is called
Agile MDA
.
Making Code Generation Real: Five Requirements for Effective Code Generation
The promise of effective code generation is tremendous. It can accelerate development, increase productivity, streamline maintenance and improve system quality by orders of magnitude.But the demands of effective code generation are also significant. There are basic requirements that must be met in order to ensure a productive environment. An approach and toolset that supports these basic requirements can greatly increase project productivity and quality. However, one lacking these critical capabilities will become either an expensive drawing tool or an obstacle to project success.Outlined in the following article are the five basic requirements for effective code generation that will make each project a success.
An Introduction to Executable and Translatable UML
Executable and Translatable UML (XTUML) accelerates the development of real-time, embedded and technical software systems. XTUML is a proven, well-defined, fully automated methodology utilizing the UML notation.XTUML is based on an object-oriented approach that has been used on over 1400 real-time and technical projects. These projects include life-critical implanted medical devices, DOD flight-critical systems, 24x7 performance-critical fault-tolerant telecom systems, highly resource-constrained consumer electronics, and large-scale discrete-event simulation systems.
A Summary of Executable and Translatable UML
Executable and Translatable UML (XTUML) accelerates the development of real-time, embedded and technical software systems. XTUML is a proven, well-defined, fully automated methodology utilizing the UML notation.XTUML is based on an object-oriented approach that has been used on over 1400 real-time and technical projects. These projects include life-critical implanted medical devices, DOD flight-critical systems, 24x7 performance-critical fault-tolerant telecom systems, highly resource-constrained consumer electronics, and large-scale discrete-event simulation systems.
Demystifying UML
What is UML-exactly? How is it being used? By whom? Are there many ways to use it, or is there one true way? Does it apply to embedded and real-time systems? How? Really? What are the popular ways to use UML? How effective has it been? Why are there so many tools? Why do they seem to be so different-even though UML is a standard? What should I look for in a tool? Will using UML change my development process? Make it faster? Or not? Build better quality systems? Or is it all hype?If these, and myriad more, questions bombard you when you think about UML, this article is for you. It answers these questions and more by laying out the provenance of the language; its various usage styles, subsets and extensions, including real-time profiles; where it is being used and with what degree of success. A brief self-assessment is included to help you determine whether your team is ready for UML, and if so, how.
Model-Driven Development for Embedded Systems Using the UML Suite
This technical paper provides an overview of how to use UML for model-driven development with an example of how to build a real-time application using code generation for clean, readable, optimized and error free code.
Requirements Tracing
Requirements tracing is accomplished in different ways within different development organizations. This paper describes requirements tracing and one example of its deployment within an engineering team. This process uses common issue tracking and configuration management tools working together with source code editors and UML modeling tools.
Rules-based Code Generation
There are a number of tools available that aim to improve the software development process by having the developer model the software using the UML. The level of support provided to take the model and turn it into the target implementation varies considerably from no support all the way to full translation of the model and its content. This paper provides an overview of the latter and discusses the numerous benefits of a fully translatable model using a rules-based code generator.
Object Action Language Reference Manual
The purpose of this manual is to serve as a reference and general user?s guide to aid in the correct specification of action semantics for UML models. Although originally designed for models used with the BridgePoint UML Suite, the language described can be used to define the action semantics for any UML model in any tool.The Object Action Language is written to satisfy the following goals:
Readability - Modelers must be able to easily understand the OAL for development and reviews
Derivation - Event generation and data access information is captured for derivation of the Object Collaboration Diagrams and Package Dependency Diagrams for both asynchronous (event) and synchronous (data access) communication
Simulation - The UML models can be simulated through interpretation of the actions
Translation - Richness of expression is provided while maintaining a specification that can be automatically translated on a target architecture
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