Question

Describe the general process of simulation. List some of the major advantages of simulation over optimization and vice versa. Many computer games can be considered visual simulation. Please explain why. with references

Answer 1

#General Process of Simulation-

1.Problem Definition
The initial step involves defining the goals of the study and determing what needs to be solved. The problem is further defined through objective observations of the process to be studied. Care should be taken to determine if simulation is the appropriate tool for the problem under investigation.
2.Project Planning
The tasks for completing the project are broken down into work packages with a responsible party assigned to each package. Milestones are indicated for tracking progress. This schedule is necessary to determine if sufficient time and resources are available for completion.
3.System Definition
This step involves identifying the system components to be modeled and the preformance measures to be analyzed. Often the system is very complex, thus defining the system requires an experienced simulator who can find the appropriate level of detail and flexibility.
4.Model Formulation
Understanding how the actual system behaves and determining the basic requirements of the model are necessary in developing the right model. Creating a flow chart of how the system operates facilitates the understanding of what variables are involved and how these variables interact.
5.Input Data Collection & Analysis
After formulating the model, the type of data to collect is determined. New data is collected and existing data is gathered. Data is fitted to theoretical distributions.
6.Model Translation
The model is translated into programming language. Choices range from general purpose languages such as fortran or simulation programs such as Arena.
7.Verification & Validation
Verification is the process of ensuring that the model behaves as intended, usually by debugging or through animation. Verification is necessary but not sufficient for validation, that is a model may be verified but not valid. Validation ensures that no significant difference exists between the model and the real system and that the model reflects reality. Validation can be achieved through statistical analysis. Additionally, face validity may be obtained by having the model reviewed and supported by an expert.
8.Experimentation & Analysis
Experimentation involves developing the alternative model,executing the simulation runs, and statistically comparing the alternative system performance with that of the real system.
9.Documentation & Implementation
Documentation consists of the written report and presentation. The results and implications of the study are discussed. The best course of action is identified, recommended, and justified.

#Advantages-

-Simulation is best suited to analyze complex and large practical problems when it is not possible to solve them through a mathematical method.
-Simulation is flexible, hence changes in the system variables can be made to select the best solution among the various alternatives.
-In simulation, the experiments are carried out with the model without disturbing the system.
-Policy decisions can be made much faster by knowing the options well in advance and by reducing the risk of experimenting in the real system.

#Disadvantages -

-Simulation does not generate optimal solutions.
-It may take a long time to develop a good simulation model.
-In certain cases simulation models can be very expensive.
-The decision-maker must provide all information about the constraints and conditions for examination, as simulation does not give the answers by itself.

●Computers games can be considered visual simulation as

They are worlds in which variables interact through time. What makes them interestingly different from scientific simulations is that the player is not outside, but, rather, inside the simulation (the virtual world) and there are interesting intermediary cases between scientific simulations and games, such as flight simulators, as well as games like Full Spectrum Warrior, which in one form is used as a simulation by the army and in another form is used as a game for the commercial market.
The player has a surrogate in the simulation (game), namely the virtual character or characters he or she controls in the virtual world - Solid Snake in Metal Gear Solid, a Sim family in The Sims, or citizens, soldiers, and buildings in Rise of Nations.