An object-oriented simulation environment for airbase logistics:

Abstract : The Integrated Model Development Environment (IMDE) will address basic difficulties experienced in simulating airbase logistics. These difficulties arise during two major modeling activities: (a) developing the conceptual model, and (b) translating the conceptual model to a particular simulation software implementation. The difficulty of the former activity is largely irreducible, a consequence of the inherent complexity of large, dynamic, and uncertain military systems - such as airbase logistics. However, though the latter activity is also complex, key technologies have the potential to simply this part of the modeling process. This paper discusses how a synergistic combination of object-oriented programming and data bases, graphical programming, software environments, and powerful computer workstations may provide a breakthrough in simulation modeling capabilities. To further demonstrate concepts, the paper describes an object-oriented simulation prototype of a subset of the airbase logistics domain. The paper also discusses how the IMDE will be designed to meet the needs of airbase logistics modelers with widely differing capabilities and mission requirements. This is to be accomplished by providing different modeling levels, each with its own user interface, skill requirements, and degree of access to modeling tools. The paper concludes with a discussion of the current status of IMDE development efforts. (kr) (Author)