REVIEW AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A NOVEL METHODOLOGY FOR AUTOMATED DESIGN OF MECHATRONIC SYSTEMS

Modern dynamic engineering systems can be characterized as mechatronic systems. The multi-domain nature of a mechatronic system makes it difficult to model using a single modeling technique over the whole system as varying sets of system variables are required. Bond-Graphs offer an advanced unified and object oriented modeling and simulation technique. They are domain independent allowing straightforward and efficient model composition, classification and analysis. Bond-Graph model of the mechatronic system can be directly simulated on a digital computer using simulation softwares like 20-Sim and Modelica graphically or manipulated mathematically to yield state equations using a simplified set of power and energy variables. The simulation scheme can be augmented to synthesize designs for mechatronic systems using genetic programming as a tool for open-ended search. This research paper presents results of simulated experiments that combine Bond-Graph modeling and simulation with genetic programming for automated design of a simple mechatronic system. A brief introduction to the methodology and review of associated concepts is also included.