Distributed Co-Simulation Protocol (DCP)


The Distributed Co-Simulation Protocol (DCP) is a platform and communication medium independent standard for the integration of real-time systems into simulation environments. The DCP is standardized by the Modelica Association, where it is maintained as a Modelica Association Project (MAP).

Whereas the FMI standard represents an application programming interface (API), the DCP represents a communication protocol. Therefore, it becomes possible to integrate various kinds of systems. The DCP specification is suitable for a broad range of computing platforms. It may be implemented on hardware as well as in software. Typical examples are middleware, runtime environments, (virtualized) operating systems, electronic control units, FPGAs, and many more.


Key Features of DCP



  1. Synchronization Across Nodes:
    • Provides mechanisms for time-aligned execution of simulation units.    
    • Ensures accuracy and consistency in distributed setups.
  2. Hardware and Software Integration:
    • Supports co-simulation between physical hardware components (e.g., controllers, sensors) and virtual models.
    • Ideal for hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing.
  3. Scalability:
    • Optimized for large-scale systems with multiple simulation units spread across networks or processors.
    • Facilitates distributed execution to reduce computational load on individual systems.
  4. Interoperability with Standards:
    • Designed to complement FMI and SSP.
    • Enables seamless integration of DCP with existing FMI-based workflows.
  5. Tool and Vendor Independence:
    • Provides a neutral framework, ensuring compatibility across various tools and platforms.



DCP Workflow



  1. System Setup:
    • Define the distributed simulation architecture.
    • Identify components (e.g., FMUs, hardware units) to be included.
  2. Configuration:
    • Use DCP-specific configuration files to describe the interaction of components.
    • Configure parameters such as communication intervals, synchronization points, and data exchange mechanisms.
  3. Execution:
    • Execute the distributed simulation using the DCP runtime environment.
    • Monitor synchronization and data exchange in real-time.

       

Practical Applications of DCP



  • Automotive: Integrating simulations of engine control units (ECUs) with virtual vehicle models.
  • Energy Systems: Real-time simulation of distributed power grids.
  • Aerospace: Combining hardware simulators with virtual flight dynamics models.