Physically oriented modeling of heterogeneous systems

Technical systems can be characterized very often as complex heterogeneous. Many simulation algorithms exist for the analysis of continuous and discre te systems. However, the first modeling steps in the physical domains have not been sufficiently assisted by CAD tools. Multiports and generalized KIR CHHOFF's networks proved to be powerful concepts in a physically oriented m odeling methodology. Modeling languages like VHDL-AMS and Modelica will sup port the practical application of these approaches. (C) 2000 IMACS. Publish ed by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.