Formalized Description of a Framework for Simulation-based Mechatronic Design

In this paper a framework for simulation-based design of mechatronic systems is presented. Special focus is placed on the formal description of the underlying processes and methods based on the Characteristics and Properties Modeling (CPM) approach of Weber et al. The basis for the framework is set by a process model which focusses on the specific needs of simulation-based design and which consists of two interacting streams: design activities and analysis activities. In this process model Analysis Milestones (AMS) are used to organize all analysis activities and manage iterations. The processes related to these iterations are further detailed including criteria to help designers in determining the necessity and impacts of iterations. Finally the benefits and open issues of the application of the CPM approach for the description of the framework are discussed.