Model-based design is a powerful methodology for developing embedded controllers. It links the design, implementation, and integration aspects of the V-Model to encourage safe, well-structured code. Rather than jumping straight from requirements to complex code, it uses plant models to represent the dynamic interactions needed for a responsive controller.
The Four Key Steps of Model-Based Design
1. Model the System Using Plant Models
A plant is a representation of a subsystem’s inputs, outputs, and logic to translate inputs into outputs. It isn’t a plant in the sense that it will grow into a functional controller though. Functionally, they are black boxes of code that create an environment similar to real-world conditions. They can be as simple as a single plant rattling off a table of values or as complex as a series of plants representing different dynamic subsystems in a vehicle. The more your plant(s) behave like their real-world counterparts, the less real-world testing you’ll need to run later.
2. Develop a Controller Based on the Plant Models
Now that we have a model of the rest of the system, we can start work on the new controller. Based on the plants from the previous steps and intended use for the controller, we should have a good idea about what variables we will need to tune the controller. These could be any constant values used to calculate output values, including PID values. Keeping these controller characteristics visible and easy to modify will make tuning in the next steps much easier.
3. Simulate the Plant and Controller Together
Next, we test the simulated system and watch how the controller behaves over time. Based on the simulated tests, we can tune the controller using the variables identified in the last step. This can be as simple as manually modifying values based on tests or using other software tools to calculate optimal values.
4. Test the Controller in Real-World Conditions
It’s time to take the training wheels off our new controller and test it under controlled real-world conditions. There will be more tuning for your new controller in this phase, but this is where you get returns if you invested time and effort into your plants. This is a necessary but expensive part of the process that can have a huge impact on how your controller will perform.
Tools for Model-Based Software Development
Using specialized tools like Simulink can significantly streamline the Model-Based Design process. Simulink allows engineers to:
- Generate production code from block diagrams
- Automate parts of the V-Model process (design → implementation → integration)
- Enable Model-in-the-Loop (MIL) testing
- Debug systems before moving to hardware
This transparency also improves collaboration, allowing stakeholders to review the design visually without digging into raw code.
Need Help with Model-Based Software Development?
If you’re seeking experts in Model-Based Software Development or tools like Simulink, DISTek can help. Our teams specialize in embedded systems and controller development using industry-leading tools and methods.
Contact us today to learn how we can support your next project.
