Teaching the fundamentals of the modelling of Cyber-Physical Systems

Current Cyber-Physical Systems are becoming too complex to model and simulate using the usual approaches. This complexity is not only due to a large number of components, but also by the increasing diversity of components and problem aspects. In this paper, we report on over a decade of experience in teaching the modelling and simulation of complex Cyber-Physical Systems, at both McGill University, and the University of Antwerp. We tackle complexity through the use of multiple formalisms, each specialized for a specific domain and problem. Modelling and simulation is used throughout the complete development process. Students are introduced to all fundamental problems encountered when modelling and simulating Cyber-Physical Systems. Students will be able to both create a meaningful model in the formalism, as well as create a minimal simulation kernel for it. Our approach results in a deep understanding of the formalism, particularly the advantages and disadvantages, without focussing on tool-specific issues. In the end, students are capable of choosing the most appropriate formalism for a problem, and making an informed decision on which tool to use. Due to the variety of formalisms, students can successfully apply the gained knowledge in a wide spectrum of domains.