The main distinction between MATLAB simulation and real-time simulation on platforms such as OPAL-RT is found in their execution environments and objectives, despite both being used for model simulation.
Environment:
MATLAB simulations operate within a flexible software environment without real-time constraints, whereas real-time simulation like OPAL-RT simulations utilize specialized hardware and software to achieve real-time execution.
Purpose:
MATLAB is well-suited for exploratory analysis and algorithm development, while real-time simulation like OPAL-RT is designed for applications that require precise timing, such as hardware-in-the-loop testing and real-time system validation.
Timing:
MATLAB simulations can operate at varying speeds, independent of real-world time, whereas real-time simulation like OPAL-RT ensures that simulations progress in sync with actual time to facilitate accurate real-world interaction.
For more information about “real-time” systems kindly refer following MathWorks documentation.
I hope this will be helpful.
