Integrating geometry and material specifications in dynamic systems modeling

This paper proposes a conceptual framework for integrating simulation tools with CAD systems and material databases. Simulation tools focus on dynamic behavior. Usually, the underlying material and geometrical relations are to be specified by the user in terms of equations and parameters. However, this procedure is counter productive and error prone. Moreover, it can be difficult to reuse and share such models. A systematic approach to integration of partial models is required. In this paper we describe a route to proper separation and integration of energetic-dynamic, material and geometrical aspects at the conceptual level of a physical systems model. The present approach adapts and extends the OLMECO framework that was developed earlier. This framework defines two levels of abstraction (components and processes or concepts) in addition to the traditional mathematical level, to enhance the quality and reusability of model fragments. Here we propose to generalize the process level to include the material and geometrical viewpoints. We discuss two related questions. First, what are the theoretical and practical consequences of this separation? Second, how does it affect the model construction process? A separate section illustrates the approach with two examples of library models.