<title>Object-oriented framework for distributed simulation</title>

Abstract

The benefits of object-oriented technology are widely recognized in software engineering. This paper describes the use of the object-oriented paradigm to create distributed simulations. The University of Essex Robotics and Intelligent Machines group has been carrying out research into distributed vehicle simulation since 1992. Part of this research has focused on the development of simulation systems to assist in the design of robotic vehicles. This paper describes the evolution of these systems, from an early toolkit used for teaching robotics to recent work on using simulation as a design tool in the creation of a new generation of unmanned underwater vehicles. It outlines experiences gained in using PVM, and ongoing research into the use of the emerging High Level Architecture as the basis for these frameworks. The paper concludes with the perceived benefits of adopting object-oriented methodologies as the basis for simulation frameworks.