MBD Algorithm Specs

Structured specification of algorithms for Model-Based Design. Adapts the specifying-software templates for the MBD algorithm domain.

When to Use

• Specifying a controller, estimator, signal processor, diagnostic, or supervisory logic algorithm
• The algorithm will be authored in Simulink, Stateflow, System Composer, or as a MATLAB Function block
• The algorithm is part of a model-based design workflow (simulation, code generation, or both)
• Creating, updating, or reviewing algorithm specification documents

When NOT to Use

• Building the algorithm model → use building-simulink-models
• Testing an existing model → use testing-simulink-models
• Plant/environment models → use specifying-plant-models
• Traditional software (C, C++, Python, standalone MATLAB scripts) → use specifying-software
• Full closed-loop system → use this skill for the algorithm side, specifying-plant-models for the plant side

Output Conventions

Store specs per algorithm. Prefix every filename with the algorithm name:

docs/specs/algorithms/<algorithm-name>/
├── <algorithm-name>-system.md
├── <algorithm-name>-architecture.md
├── <algorithm-name>-implementation-plan.md
└── <algorithm-name>-test-plan.md

Mode Selection

Is this a single-function algorithm with <3 operating modes, single-rate, and will be built by one person/agent?

• Yes → Quick spec: 2 documents (system+architecture combined, implementation+test combined)
• No → Full spec: 4 separate documents

Workflow

Step 1: Establish External Interface

Identify what this algorithm connects to. If an existing system exists, read it with model_overview and model_read. If greenfield, define the boundary from requirements.