An Integrated, Modular Simulation System for Education ... - Cal Poly

simulation after the conversion. The conversion from c++ to S-functions took six monthswhereas Sr. level undergraduate students were able to create complex models in hours.Research ObjectivesOriginally the objectives of the research were to extend the basic capabilities ofthe Cal Poly flight simulation laboratory providing a first and second order linear modelfor the rotational axes of a Cessna 172 in landing mode. The model was to be used toperform handling qualities research into the effects of time delay [Ref. 19, 20, 21, 22, 23,24.] on the pitch channel of input using Cal Poly s force feedback stick and rudder.However after the model was created, tested and verified a system was found that allowsrapid development of an advanced simulation lab. Using The Mathworks Simulinkgraphical simulation environment as a base, along with Real Time Workshop auto codingsoftware to generate simulation executables from the Simulink models, a completelymodular simulator was established. Once the existing modeling software and hardwaredrivers were incorporated, additional software tools were created to provide a system thatis inexpensive, flexible, powerful, easy to use and provides students with tools industryand research are just starting to use [Ref. 9].The Mathworks provides a API for including user created functions insimulations. C MEX functions extend the basic matlab scripting language by allowingcompiled c language functions to be included in the Matlab workspace. Cmex S-functions allow users to create custom functions that can be included in Simulink models.Since the functions are compiled very complex functionality can be added to the basicMatlab/Simulink enviorinment.8