Understanding Computer Simulation

This book describes computer simulation concepts then provides basic details about using discrete-event computer simulation for decision making. Input data collection and analysis, model construction, project mechanics, output analysis, verification, validation, reporting, logic transfer, and robust experimental design are all covered in detail. Example models are provided and illustrated using the GPSS simulation language, spreadsheet tools, and other products available on the Web. Statistical analysis is covered, with considerations for using simulation in business and project settings.

1. Introduction to Computer Simulation
1.1 Simulation Defined
1.1.1 Computer Simulation’s Basic Nature
1.1.2 Computer Simulation Uses
1.1.3 General Benefits of Computer Simulation
1.1.4 General Limitations of Computer Simulation
1.2 Different Types of Simulation
1.2.1 Continuous Simulation
1.2.2 Monte Carlo Simulation
1.2.3 Discrete Event Computer Simulation
1.2.4 Agent-Based Modeling
1.3 Brief History of Simulation
1.4 Bibliography

2. Simulation Languages
2.1 Simulation Language Features
2.1.1 Comparison to Traditional Languages
2.1.2 Simulation Languages
2.1.3 How Simulation Languages Work
2.2 Simulators and Integrated Simulation Environments
2.2.1 Simulators
2.2.2 Advantages of Simulators
2.2.3 Simulators vs. Simulation Languages
2.2.4 Integrated Environments
2.3 Hardware Requirements for Simulation
2.4 Animation
2.4.1 Using Animation in The Proper Context
2.4.2 Misuse of Animation
2.4.3 Animation Attributes
2.4.4 Example Animation Software Packages
2.5 Bibliography

3. Applications of Simulation
3.1 Why Use Simulation
3.2 Simulation as a Design Tool
3.2.1 Types of Simulation
3.2.2 Operational Changes and Follow-up
3.3 Estimation of Simulation Time
3.4 Methodology for Manufacturing Simulations
3.5 Forcing Completion of Design with Simulation
3.6 The Simulation Decision
3.7 Make It Work Vs. Does It Work


3.8 Optimizing and Developing Solutions
3.9 Genetic Algorithms
3.10 Ethics in Simulation
3.11 Bibliography

4. Starting a Simulation the Right Way
4.1 Intelligence
4.1.1 Problem Definition
4.1.2 General Feasibility
4.2 Managerial Phase
4.3 Developmental Phase
4.3.1 Model Scope
4.3.2 Modeling Views
4.3.3 Concept Model
4.3.4 Concept Modeling with Simple Spreadsheets
4.3.5 Concept Modeling with Advanced Spreadsheets
4.3.6 Model Inputs
4.3.7 Statistical Methods and Input Data
4.3.8 Pearson’s Chi-Square Test
4.3.9 Example Chi-Square Goodness-of-Fit
4.3.10 Kolmogorov-Smirnov Test
4.3.11 Anderson Darling Test
4.3.12 Example Using Data Fit Software
4.4 Human Component Considerations
4.4.1 Simplementation Cases
4.4.2 Persims
4.5 Bibliography

5. Simulation Quality and Development
5.1 Quality Assurance Phase
5.1.1 Validation
5.1.2 Simulation Input Data Validation
5.1.3 Validation of Simulation Outputs
5.1.4 Summary of Validation 110
5.2 Selection of a Language or Tool
5.3 Model Construction
5.4 Verification
5.5 Bibliography

6. Developing a Simulation-Implementation
6.1 Experimental Design
6.1.1 Random and Pseudo-Random Number Streams
6.1.2 Special Concerns for Terminating Simulations
6.1.3 Special Concerns for Steady State Simulations
6.2 Production Runs
6.3 Output Analysis
6.3.1 Statistical Output Analysis of a Single Model
6.3.2 Statistical Output Analysis Used to Compare Models
6.4 Output Reporting
6.4.1 Simulation Report
6.4.2 Quick Reports
6.4.3 Logic Transfer
6.5 Post Processing Output
6.5.1 MS-Office Excel
6.5.2 SAS
6.5.3 Custom Generated Animation
6.6. Operations, Maintenance and Archival Phase
6.7 Bibliography

7. Case Study: DePorres Tours
7.1 Intelligence Phase
7.1.1 Problem Definition
7.1.2 General Feasibility
7.2 Managerial Phase
7.3 Developmental Phase
7.3.1 Environment and Boundary
7.3.2 Model Scaling and Scope
7.3.3 Modeling Views
7.3.4 Concept Model
7.3.5 Model Inputs
7.3.6 Simulation Input Data Validation
7.3.7 Selection of a Language or Tool
7.3.8 Model Construction
7.4 Quality Phase
7.5 Implementation
7.5.1 Experimental Design
7.5.2 Statistical Output Analysis of a Single Model
7.5.3 Additional Scenario
7.6. Operations, Maintenance and Archival Phase
7.7 Bibliography
7.8 Appendix: GPSS World Source Code Listing (Two Bus Model)

Acknowledgements

http://www.cba.k-state.edu/index.aspx?NID=669