This document evaluates and analyzes several open source simulation software tools - OpenModelica, Hopsan, and Scilab. It describes each tool, including their origins and capabilities. OpenModelica is a Modelica programming language environment from Linkoping University. Hopsan is also from Linkoping University and originally focused on hydraulic systems. Scilab is a Matlab alternative with many additional modules. The document demonstrates simple simulations with each tool and ultimately recommends Scilab as a powerful Matlab alternative, OpenModelica for its simulation capabilities, and Hopsan for hydraulic systems.

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Zack Stull
OpenAdaptronik
Evaluation and Adaptation of Open Souce
Development Tools for Mechatronic Systems

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Analyzed Simulation Software
● OpenModelica
● Hopsan
● Scilab

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OpenModelica
● Open Source Modelica Consortium &
Linköping University
● Simulink alternative
● Not a Matlab alternative
● Modelica programming language
● Simple installation

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OpenModelica: Passive System

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OpenModelica: Velocity Feedback

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Hopsan
● Linköping University
● Simulink alternative
● Not a Matlab alternative
● Originally for hydraulic systems
● Relies strongly on block parameters
● Simple installation

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Hopsan: Passive System

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Hopsan: Velocity Feedback

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Scilab
● Scilab Enterprises
● XCOS – Simulink alternative
● Coselica
● Matlab alternative
● Matlab to Scilab translator
● Many additional open-source modules
● Complicated installation

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Scilab: Passive System

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Scilab: Velocity Feedback

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Recommendations
● Scilab
– Powerful Matlab alternative
– Modules for almost any need
– Complicated installation
● Openmodelica
– Powerful simulation environment
– Not a Matlab alternative
– Large community base
● Hopsan
– Not a Matlab alternative
– Good for hydraulic systems
– Becoming more and more versatile

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Questions?