果冻传媒

In the modern technical world, mathematical models play an indispensable role in designing, analyzing, and controlling complex dynamical systems such as high-tech production machines, robots, cars, windmills and medical equipment. As the demands on these systems continually increase, so does the complexity of the designs, leading to a greater need for detailed models. A common solution in engineering is to deploy specialized teams to design, model and analyze individual modules of a system. However, this approach can make it difficult to predict how their design choices influence the overall system. To support model-based system engineering Lars Janssen introduces quantitative tools that enable and empower engineering teams to reliably adopt such modular approaches.

When all complex module models are combined into a single model of the overall system, the total model may become so complex that we do not have the computational power to use it effectively. Therefore, often, before combining the models, they need to be simplified by preserving only the most essential features of the module. However, in general, it is difficult to select the most important features of a module from the perspective of the system it is a part of. In his research shows how it can be guaranteed that the overall system model is sufficiently accurate, even if the models are simplified on a module level. This allows engineers to create simplified yet accurate models of complex dynamical systems.

Redesign and improve

Furthermore, the teams of engineers responsible for a specific module may want to improve their module design, for example by using more sustainable materials, or by adding sensors that can predict when maintenance is required. Using the developed approach, these teams are provided with individual module requirements, which, if they adhere to these requirements, guarantee that the overall system also performs as required. This gives these teams the freedom to redesign their specific module and make improvements with the ability to verify if their module changes satisfy their given requirements.

Modular approaches essential

Modular approaches are essential to break up the huge challenges engineers face into smaller, tangible challenges. In a world full of uncertainty, this framework helps engineers to create the reliable engineering systems required for a sustainable future.

The work described in this thesis was carried out in the Dynamics and Control (D&C) research group under the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Eindhoven University of Technology (果冻传媒). This thesis is part of the project Digital Twin with project number P18-03 of the research program Perspectief which is (mainly) financed by the Dutch Research Council (NWO).

Title of PhD thesis: . Supervisors: Prof. Nathan van de Wouw, Dr. Rob Fey and Dr. Bart Besselink (RUG).