Distributed simulation: creating distributed simulation using DEVS M&S environments

Abstract

We briefly review the theory of modeling and simulation and its support for constructing distributed simulations. Formal representation of simulation models can contribute to a number of aspects in the modeling and simulation enterprise. Separation of models from simulation execution engines is a prerequisite transferring model among phases of a project as well as from project to project. The Discrete Event System Specification (DEVS) formalism, drawing on its system theoretic basis, provides a number of important properties such as hierarchical, modular composition, universality and uniqueness that can support development of simulation models and environments their development. An layered architecture for supporting comprehensive M&S environments is discussed that unifies the theoretical framework with implementation in distributed computational environments.