ABSTRACT
An analytical model, which is a set of differential equations, has many uses in the analysis, design, and control of the corresponding system. In particular, it can provide information regarding how the system responds when excited by an initial condition (IC) (i.e., free, natural response) or when a specific excitation (input) is applied (i.e., forced response). Such a study may be carried out by
1. Solution of the differential equations (analytical) 2.. Computer simulation (numerical)
In this chapter we will address these two approaches. A response analysis carried out using either approach, is valuable in many applications such as design, control, testing, validation, and qualification. For large-scale and complex systems, a purely analytical study may not be feasible, and one may have to resort to numerical approaches and computer simulation.
