Converter Block

Transforms inputs into an intermediate variable or constant. Used for auxiliary calculations in System Dynamics.

Description

The Converter block (also known as an Auxiliary variable) is used to transform one or more inputs into an intermediate result. It represents constants, algebraic relationships, or look-up tables in a System Dynamics model.

Mathematical Model

Output = (Input * Multiplier) + Offset

A basic Converter implements a linear transformation:

$$Output = (Input \times Multiplier) + Offset$$

More complex converters can represent non-linear relationships, but they always lack "memory" (unlike Stocks).

Parameters

multiplier

A scaling factor applied to the input.

• Default: 1
• Tooltip: A scaling factor applied to the input

offset

A constant value added to the result after multiplication.

• Default: 0
• Tooltip: A constant value added after multiplication

Ports

in (Input)

The value to be transformed.

out (Output)

The resulting converted value.

See Also

• Stock: Converted values often determine the rates for Stocks.
• Flow: Converters are frequently used to compute the value of a Flow.
• MathFunction: For more complex, non-linear mathematical operations.