Case Study: University of Waterloo achieves faster dynamic system modeling with Maplesoft Maple

University of O derives Stewart Platform equations in hours with Maplesoft

The University of Waterloo's Motion Research Group, led by Prof. John McPhee, faced the challenge of modeling complex, nonlinear, multi-body dynamic systems. Conventional methods like hand derivation were too slow and unreliable, especially for intricate systems like a 6 degree-of-freedom Stewart Platform used in flight simulators. They turned to Maplesoft, using the symbolic computation power of Maple to address this challenge.

Using Maple, the team was able to automatically generate symbolic, closed-form equations of motion for these systems within hours instead of days. This analytical approach provided unique insight into system dynamics and enabled crucial inverse dynamic analysis for control system design. The solution from Maplesoft resulted in a dramatically reduced development time, a more robust controller design, and significant cost savings compared to conventional numerical approaches.

University of O