A parallel computer architecture for continuous simulation

A parallel computer specifically designed for the solution of ordinary differential equations is described. The first version of the machine contains thirty-two processors, running in an asynchronous multiple-instruction/multiple-data mode, communicating with high-speed parallel busses. Synchronization is accomplished by a microprogrammable communication controller. A number of processors have been designed and built for the machine. The processor types offer a wide variation in solution speed and accuracy. To permit easy comparisons with analog and hybrid systems, performance is measured by finding the highest frequency sine wave which can be integrated in real time with an accuracy of 0.1% or higher. Using this performance measure the performance limit of the current machine is 2000 Hz. The structure is capable of solving systems described by differential equations up to order sixty-four at these performance limits.<>