11. Automating the Process for Modeling and Simulation of Mechatronics Systems

Automating the modeling process of mechatronics systems can be achieved by the use of a two-step process. First, a systematic modeling technique for modeling systems with components in the mechanical, electric, hydraulic, thermal domains and second, the use of software to automate the process. The chapter presents the modeling process using block diagrams and bond graph methods so that a common understanding develops between the readers used to block diagrams and those used to bond graph methods. It guides the reader to automate the creation of computer models and then to computer simulation using software tools such as CAMPG, MATLAB, SIMULINK, and SYSQUAKE. Using an automated process, it guides the reader to perform simulation in the time and also in the frequency domain. Applications for nonlinear and complex mechatronics systems are presented.