COMPUTER MODELLING AND SIMULATION
Explain system modelling, simulation
Evaluate advantages of simulation and modelling
Perform what-if-analysis using spreadsheet
Introduction
Computer modelling and computer simulation are two related technologies that have widespread application in
many sectors of our lives today, notably, in education research, industry, and science. The purpose of this lesson is to
explain these concepts, outline their benefits and show how they have changed our life.
A - Computer modelling
A model is the representation of a structure using a physical system. A model can come in many shapes, size, and styles.
In general all models have an information input, an information processor, and an output of expected results. Computer
modelling may involve the representation of three-dimensional object on a computer, using some form of software
designed for that purpose.
Among the uses of computer modelling are war games and disaster simulations, situations in which computers offer a
safe, relatively inexpensive means of creating or recreating events without lost of life or property.
1- Benefits of computer modelling
Modelling a process has the following advantages
Acquisition of a predictive rather than reactive approach to design
Acquisition of a better understanding of the process
Elimination of expensive and time consuming prototype development
Increase in confidence with regard to radical design approaches
Reduction in manufacturing defects
Shortening on the time required to bring product to the market
Ability to test multiple scenarios and designs fairly quickly
2- Common application of computer modelling
- 3D models are frequently used in 3D graphics
- Scientists use computer models to predict climate change
- Computer models are keys to climate forecasts
- Computer models are used to predict heat transfer, fire and smoke spread. Computer model is also used for designing
fire safety systems
B- Computer simulation
Simulation refers to the act of mimicking (imitating) the operation of a system in a computer. Computer simulation is the use
of advance software to mimic the operation of physical systems on a computer. This process often involves the use of models
called computer models.
1- Common application of computer simulation
Computer simulations are used in many fields, including science, technology, entertainment, and events in business panning.
Some applications of computer simulation are:
- A 3D computer graphics model made to represent a three-dimensional object through the use of specialized software
- Flight simulators to train pilot
- Forecasting of prices on financial market
- Traffic engineering to plan or redesign parts of the street network in cities
- Modeling car crashes to test safety mechanisms in new vehicle model
- Popular entertainment industries such as television and video games
- A technology called computer generated imagery (CGI) is used in producing movies
C- The what –If-Analysis
Spreadsheets are well suited to simulating outcomes from changes in the input parameters. what –If-Analysis is the
process of changing the values in cells to see how those changes will affect the outcome of formulas on the worksheet.
Three kinds of what –If-Analysis tools come with Excel: scenarios, data tables, and Goal Seek.
- Scenarios and data table take sets of input values and determine possible results.
Goal Seek works differently from scenarios and data table in that it takes a result and determines possible input values
that produce that result
