The Model Generator: A Crucial Element of the Model Development Environment

Abstract

This report documents development of a prototype model generator. The model generator is designed to assist a discrete event simulation modeler in converting this conceptual model to a representation which can be communicated to other persons (the communicative model). The current version uses English phrases to represent the communicative model. The model generator is one of the tools of the Model Development Environment, which is a toolset being developed at VPI & SU. The Model Development Environment is envisioned as a complete set of tools designed to provide integrated support to the modeler throughout the mode! life cycle. The governing concepts of the model generator are based on the Conical Methodology of Nance. With that underpinning, the prototype model generator provides a tool of moderately general applicability for the construction of hierarchical models. The report includes a brief review of applicable previous efforts, design criteria for the model generator, a description of the model generator computer program, and a user manual.