A methodology for digital real time simulation of dynamic systems using modern DSPs

Abstract

The speedup factor in real time simulation of dynamic systems using multiprocessor resources depends on: the architecture of the multiprocessor system, type of interconnection between parallel processors, numerical methods and techniques used for discretization and task assignment and scheduling policy. The minimization of the number of processors needed for real time simulation requires the minimization of processors times for interprocessor communications and efficient scheduling policy. Therefore, this article presents a methodology for the real time simulation of dynamic systems including a new pre-emptive static assignment and scheduling policy. The advantages of applying digital signal processor with parallel architecture, for example TMS320C40, in real time simulation have been described. Some important issues in real time architectures necessary for efficient multiprocessor real time simulations, such as multiple I/O channels, concurrent I/O and CPU processing, direct high speed interprocessor communications, fast context switching, multiple busses, multiple memories, and powerful arithmetic units are inherent to this processor. These features minimize interprocessor communication time and maximize sustained CPU performance.