MathWorks Announces Built-in Simulink Support for Arduino, BeagleBoard, and LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT

With one click, engineers run Simulink control system and signal processing algorithms in hardware

NATICK, Mass.--MathWorks today announced that Simulink models can now run directly on Arduino, BeagleBoard, and LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT platforms. These popular, low-cost devices are widely used in academia for hands-on teaching of robotics, mechatronics, audio signal processing, computer vision, and other engineering applications. Simulink models can run standalone on these hardware platforms or in tandem with a connected PC.


"Simulink built-in support for hardware is a big boost to project-based learning," said Dr. Farid Golnaraghi, professor and director of Mechatronic Systems Engineering at Simon Fraser University. "Our engineering students who learn control theory by creating and running models in Simulink can now easily test and tune their algorithms on hardware, without knowing embedded systems."

"Multifunction microprocessor boards are a tremendous learning resource," said Tom Gaudette, principal academic evangelist at MathWorks. "Adding targeted support was a logical step, given the widespread use of Model-Based Design with Simulink in engineering schools and industry. With Simulink and a low-cost Arduino, BeagleBoard, or LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT robot, a student can learn industry best practices for DSP, robotics, and mechatronics design."

Simulink provides built-in support for the following platforms:

*Arduino Uno and Mega 2560 microcontroller boards for robotics, mechatronics, and hardware-connectivity tasks

*BeagleBoard-xM single-board computers for audio, video, and digital signal processing

*LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT robotics platform for robotics applications

Simulink built-in support for hardware is available in MathWorks Release 2012a, including MATLAB and Simulink Student Version. Visit www.mathworks.com/products/simulink/simulink-targets for additional information.

About MathWorks

MathWorks is the leading developer of mathematical computing software. MATLAB, the language of technical computing, is a programming environment for algorithm development, data analysis, visualization, and numeric computation. Simulink is a graphical environment for simulation and Model-Based Design of multidomain dynamic and embedded systems. Engineers and scientists worldwide rely on these product families to accelerate the pace of discovery, innovation, and development in automotive, aerospace, electronics, financial services, biotech-pharmaceutical, and other industries. MathWorks products are also fundamental teaching and research tools in the world's universities and learning institutions. Founded in 1984, MathWorks employs more than 2400 people in 15 countries, with headquarters in Natick, Massachusetts, USA.

For additional information, visit www.mathworks.com.

Featured Product

uEye XC AUTOMATICALLY PERFECT IMAGES

uEye XC AUTOMATICALLY PERFECT IMAGES

Combining the ease of use of a webcam with the performance and reliability of an industrial camera? The uEye XC autofocus camera from IDS Imaging Development Systems proves that this is possible. Its high-resolution imaging, simple setup and adaptability make it an invaluable tool for improving quality control and streamlining workflows in industrial settings - especially for cases where users would normally employ a webcam. The uEye XC autofocus camera features a 13 MP onsemi sensor and supports two different protocols: USB3 Vision, which enables programmability and customization, and UVC (USB Video Class). The UVC functionality enables a single cable connection for easy setup and commissioning, while delivering high-resolution images and video. This makes the uEye XC camera an ideal option for applications that require quick setup and need to manage variable object distances. Additional features such as digital zoom, automatic white balance and color correction ensure precise detail capture, which is essential for quality control.