Solution: Modelling and Simulation

Modelling and simulation (M&S) is the use of a logical representation of a given system to generate data and help determine decisions or make predictions about the system. M&S is widely used in the social and physical sciences, engineering, manufacturing and product development, among many other areas.

The use of mathematical models and simulations avoids actual experimentation, which can be costly and time-consuming. Instead, mathematical knowledge and computational power is used to solve real-world problems cheaply and in a time efficient manner. Useful insights about different decisions in the design could be gleaned. In addition, simulation can support experimentation that occurs totally in software, or in human-in-the-loop environments where simulation represents systems or generates data needed to meet experiment objectives. Furthermore, simulation can be used to train persons using a virtual environment that would otherwise be difficult or expensive to produce.

Simulation Categories

There are many categorizations possible, but the following taxonomy has been very successfully used in the defence domain.

Analyses Support is conducted in support of planning and experimentation. Very often, the search for an optimal solution that shall be implemented is driving these efforts. What-if analyses of alternatives fall into this category as well. This style of work is often accomplished by analysts.

Systems Engineering Support is applied for the procurement, development, and testing of systems. This support can start in early phases and include topics like executable system architectures, and it can support testing by providing a virtual environment in which tests are conducted.

Training and Education Support provides simulators, virtual training environments, and serious games to train and educate people. This style of work is often accomplished by trainers working in concert with computer scientists.