Physically oriented modeling of heterogeneous systems

Technical systems can be characterized very often as complex heterogeneous systems. Many simulation algorithms exist for the analysis of continuous and discrete systems. However, the first modeling steps in the physical domains have not been sufficiently assisted by CAD tools. Multiports and generalized KIRCHHOFF's networks proved to be powerful concepts in a physically oriented modeling methodology. Modeling languages like VHDL-AMS and Modelica will support the practical application of these approaches.