This course provides an understanding of how continuous-time systems can be simulated by numerical solution of mathematical models. It introduces commonly used simulation tools and numerical methods.

Teaching Sessions: 1 hour, twice per week
Laboratory Session: 4 laboratories, 3 hours each

None

None

75% Examination

25% Coursework

The aims of this course are to:

■ provide an understanding of how continuous systems and discrete-event systems can be simulated by numerical solution of mathematical models;

■ develop an appreciation of the strengths and weaknesses of simulation models;

■ provide an introduction to commonly used simulation tools.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ recognise the limitations of simulation models due to limitations in numerical methods used and the underlying mathematical model;

■ evaluate the effect of numerical methods used on overall accuracy of the results obtained from a simulation model;

■ recognise and make allowance for the problems associated with real-time simulation;

■ implement simple processes of internal verification of a simulation model;

■ develop and apply numerical methods for continuous time simulation;

■ design and develop a continuous system simulation in a simple simulation language;

■ assess the limitations of actuators on the performance of the system.

Students must attend the degree examination and submit at least 75% by weight of the other components of the course's summative assessment.

Students must attend the timetabled laboratory classes.

Students should attend at least 75% of the timetabled classes of the course.

Note that these are minimum requirements: good students will achieve far higher participation/submission rates.  Any student who misses an assessment or a significant number of classes because of illness or other good cause should report this by completing a MyCampus absence report.