Glossary · Automation fundamentals, platforms and components
Model-based design
Also known as: MBD
German: Model-Based Design
In control and embedded software engineering, model-based design is a development approach in which executable models of the system and controller are used for specification, simulation, testing and automatic code generation.
- Automation components
In one sentence
Model-based design uses executable models of plant and controller for specification, simulation, testing and code generation.
Example
The motion control algorithm is developed as a simulation model, tested against a plant model of the axis, and then converted into PLC code by a code generator.
How it applies
- Engineering: Plant and controller models allow testing before hardware exists, including model-in-the-loop, software-in-the-loop and hardware-in-the-loop tests.
- Verification: Test cases run against the model and the generated code; results feed into Verification evidence. Generated code still needs review according to the applicable standards.
- Documentation: Models are part of the design documentation. Record model versions, generator versions and settings, so generated code can be reproduced.
- Maintenance: Changes are made in the model and code is regenerated; editing generated code by hand breaks the link between model and code.
Model-based design vs. MBSE
Model-based design focuses on control algorithms and embedded software with executable simulation models. Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) models the whole system — requirements, structure, behavior — often in SysML, across disciplines. The two can be linked, with MBSE providing the requirements for model-based design.