Double Bouncing Ball: Use of Adaptive Zero-Crossing Location

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This example shows how to choose the correct zero-crossing location algorithm, based on the system dynamics. For Zeno dynamic systems, or systems with strong chattering, you can select the adaptive zero-crossing detection algorithm through the Configure pane:

   --> Solver
       --> Zero-crossing options
           --> Algorithm: [Non-adaptive, Adaptive]

You can run this model by typing 'sldemo_doublebounce' at the MATLAB® command-line

The Double Bouncing Ball System

The Simulink® model in this example is used to simulate two bouncing balls. They start from the ground with different initial speeds, and their ground levels will change at different times.

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Figure 1: The double bouncing ball model and animation

Double Bouncing Balls With Non-adaptive Zero-Crossing Location Algorithm

If the Non-adaptive zero-crossing location algorithm is used, the consecutive zero-crossing error causes the simulation to stop. This system is actually a so-called 'Zeno dynamic system'. When either ball is very close to the ground, Simulink will hang because too many zero crossings are detected in a very short period.

Figure 2: Vertical displacement of both balls with Non-adaptive zero- crossing location algorithm.

The simulation does not complete and an error message is shown. The ground level changing events cannot be observed.

Double Bouncing Balls With Adaptive Zero-Crossing Location Algorithm

If the adaptive algorithm is selected, Simulink will adaptively turn on/off the process to precisely locate the zero-crossing time. The conditions to turn on/off the location are:

1) Zero-crossing signal value is below a threshold value. You can control the threshold value through the Configure pane:

   --> Solver
       --> Zero-crossing options
           --> Algorithm: [Adaptive]
           --> Signal threshold

2) Consecutive zero-crossing diagnostic is hit. You can define consecutive zero crossing through the Configure pane:

   --> Solver
       --> Solver diagnostic controls
           --> Time tolerance and
           --> Number of consecutive zero crossings.

Figure 3: Vertical displacement of both balls with adaptive zero crossing location algorithm.

The simulation has completed. The ground level changing events can be observed. A warning is shown to inform you when searching for events is turned off.

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