SIMULAB an integrated environment for simulation and control

Command-driven matrix languages, such as MATLAB, have proved successful for linear control system design. The paper discusses the development and integration of SIMULAB, a graphically oriented nonlinear simulation package, into MATLAB. The `open system´ philosophy of MATLAB is carried over into SIMULAB where blocks and analysis tools can be added to the package. With access to MATLAB´s powerful command language new algorithms for simulation, linearization and trimming have been developed. A system calling syntax, known as an S-function, is used to characterize SIMULAB systems. S-functions, which can be coded in a variety of ways, including block diagrams, C, FORTRAN, or M-files, provide a means for the incorporation of SIMULAB systems into the MATLAB command set. The complete design cycle involving modelling, simulation, and control design is addressed with respect to SIMULAB´s simulation tools and MATLAB´s toolboxes for system identification, control design, and optimization