Experimental Frame Specification Methodology for Hierarchical Simulation Modeling

A methodology is presented for defining conditions under which simulation models can be observed and experimented with. Such conditions are formalized as experimental frames. A method for deriving experimental frame specifications for simulation models is given based on a universal specification called generic experimental frame. The methodology defines two schemes for carrying out simulation experiments with hierarchical, modular models: 1) the centralized architecture is based on a global experimental frame which specifies conditions for the entire model; 2) the distributed architecture facilitates attachments of frame components to model simulators at different levels of the model hierarchy. An example of a simple manufacturing process illustrates the conceptual framework. Implications of the proposed framework for design of high autonomy systems are discussed as well.