Systems and methods for controlling a fluid-based system are disclosed. The systems and methods may include generating a model output using a model processor, processing a model input vector and setting a model operating mode, and setting dynamic states of the model processor, the dynamic states input to an open loop model based on the model operating mode. Synthesized parameters are generated as a function of the dynamic states and the model input vector based on a series of utilities, where at least one of the utilities is a configurable utility including one or more sub-utilities. An estimated state of the model is determined based on at least one of a prior state and the synthesized parameters. An actuator associated with the control device is directed as a function of a model output, where the model output includes an estimated thrust value for the control device.