What Is Modeling and Simulation?

Aerospace engineers use models and simulations to evaluate new designs, diagnose problems, and test under conditions difficult to reproduce in actual systems. This video will explain how modeling and simulation are used and how digital tools are helping solve challenging problems.

Engineers build virtual versions of things for several reasons. Firstly, building and rebuilding physical prototypes is time-consuming. Secondly, physical equipment is expensive, and testing unproven designs on costly prototypes is often not within budget. Thirdly, it's impossible to predict or test every possible outcome, but simulations allow for testing extreme events not easily replicated in reality, like a Category 5 hurricane on a wind turbine.

Models are categorized into three types: physical models, process models, and mathematical models. Physical models are scaled representations of real systems, like model trains. Process models track steps in a workflow, such as flowcharts or supply chain models. Mathematical models use equations to predict responses, like how fast an apple falls from a tree.

There are three types of simulations: live, virtual, and constructive. Live simulations involve people acting out scenarios, like business school roleplays. Virtual simulations use computers to play out scenarios, such as a digital twin of a robot arm. Constructive simulations combine live and virtual elements, like pilots training on flight simulators.

Before planes take off or buildings withstand earthquakes, engineers use digital environments like Simulink to test designs. Mathematical models, virtual simulations, complex data, and engineering converge to launch new products and build our world. A free tutorial for Simulink Onramp is available for those interested in getting started.