Hybrid I/O automata revisited

Abstract

In earlier work, we developed a mathematical hybrid I/O automaton (HIOA) modeling framework, capable of describing both discrete and continuous behavior. This framework has been used to analyze examples of automated transportation systems, intelligent vehicle high-way systems, air traffic control systems, and consumer electronics applications. Here, we reconsider the basic definitions of the HIOA framework, in particular, the dual use of external variables for discrete and continuous communication. We present a new HIOA model that is simpler than the earlier model, due to a clearer separation between discrete and continuous activity.