ITI launches first FMI Target for Simulink Coder

That allows for a continuous workflow in a closed toolchain throughout the entire product lifecycle. The generated FMU is fully FMI 1.0 compliant and includes the model’s functionality and the Simulink solver, which enables any tool supporting FMUs for Co-Simulation to run the unit without Simulink. FMI Target for Simulink Coder is the first add-on for Matlab/Simulink of its kind allowing for large-scale models to be used in Model-in-the-Loop and Software-in-the-Loop simulations with ease. The generated FMU is free of any license restrictions; only the add-on for Simulink requires a license, independent from SimulationX.

The development of the Functional Mock-up Interface has enabled software-, model- and hardware-in-the-loop simulations with dynamic system models from different software environments. With the FMI Target for Simulink Coder, it is now possible to export models from Simulink to any platform that supports FMUs for Co-Simulation. That way, manufacturers of complex machinery that heavily rely on components from suppliers are finally able to seamlessly exchange data and specifications during the development. The same holds true for large corporates with multiple R&D departments at various locations using several development tools due to different objectives. With FMI Target for Simulink Coder, challenges such as different programming languages from various tools, the lack of standardized model interfaces and the concerns for the protection of intellectual property no longer exist.

The goal is to couple two or more models with solvers in a co-simulation environment. The data exchange between subsystems is restricted to discrete communication points. The subsystems are processed independently from each other by their individual solvers during the time interval between two communication points. Master algorithms control the synchronization of all slave simulation solvers and the data exchange between the subsystems. The interface allows for both standard and advanced master algorithms, such as variable communication step sizes, signal extrapolation of higher order and error checking.

“For several years ITI has been leading the development of FMI for Co-Simulation and has heavily contributed to the specification of FMI for Model Exchange. We cooperate with other tool vendors by delivering test FMUs and assisting in the implementation. Also, ITI has been using the FMI technology in a range of international joint research projects e.g. Cloud for Engineering, enerMAT and Modrio”, explains Dr. Andreas Uhlig, Managing Director at ITI, the company’s past involvement.