MATLAB: Building a Simulink Model using Second Order Differential Equations

differential equations

Hello, I'm new to Simulink. I have differential equations of the second order that describe the dynamics of an aircraft. I want to build a model for the aircraft in Simulink. Do I have to solve them using laplace transforms or any other method before going to Simulink? In my thinking, Simulink should help me do that. If Simulink can help me do that, then how do I start building the model from the differential equations? I'll really appreciate your help.

Best Answer

Simulink can absolutely help you to model differential equations.
The basic building block is the Integrator block, found in the Continuous library.
As an example, check out the classic van der Pol model...
>> vdp
Of course, Simulink can also model differential equations in state-space or Laplace form using either the State-Space block or the Transfer function block.