Abstract

Inverse simulation techniques allow inverse solutions to be found for a range of problems involving dynamic systems described by sets of linear or nonlinear ordinary differential equations. Techniques in common use generally involve iterative solutions based on discretised descriptions but continuous system simulation tools can also provide solutions and are often simpler to apply and computationally more efficient. This paper presents a method of inverse simulation which involves use of a very simple, but effective, approximation for derivative terms within the model. Discussion of results for linear and non-linear examples leads to the conclusion that this technique can be applied to a wide range of dynamic models that are of practical importance for engineering applications.