Computer Simulation Validation

This unique volume introduces and discusses the methods of validating computer simulations in scientific research. The core concepts, strategies, and techniques of validation are explained by an international team of pre-eminent authorities, drawing on expertise from various fields ranging from engineering and the physical sciences to the social sciences and history. The work also offers new and original philosophical perspectives on the validation of simulations. Topics and features: introduces the fundamental concepts and principles related to the validation of computer simulations, and examines philosophical frameworks for thinking about validation; provides an overview of the various strategies and techniques available for validating simulations, as well as the preparatory steps that have to be taken prior to validation; describes commonly used reference points and mathematical frameworks applicable to simulation validation; reviews the legal prescriptions, and the administrative and procedural activities related to simulation validation; presents examples of best practice that demonstrate how methods of validation are applied in various disciplines and with different types of simulation models; covers important practical challenges faced by simulation scientists when applying validation methods and techniques; offers a selection of general philosophical reflections that explore the significance of validation from a broader perspective. This truly interdisciplinary handbook will appeal to a broad audience, from professional scientists spanning all natural and social sciences, to young scholars new to research with computer simulations. Philosophers of science, and methodologists seeking to increase their understanding of simulation validation, will also find much to benefit from in the text.

This must-read text/reference provides a practical guide to processes involved in the development and application of dynamic simulation models, covering a wide range of issues relating to testing, verification and validation. Illustrative example problems in continuous system simulation are presented throughout the book, supported by extended case studies from a number of interdisciplinary applications. Topics and features: provides an emphasis on practical issues of model quality and validation, along with questions concerning the management of simulation models, the use of model libraries, and generic models; contains numerous step-by-step examples; presents detailed case studies, often with accompanying datasets; includes discussion of hybrid models, which involve a combination of continuous system and discrete-event descriptions; examines experimental modeling approaches that involve system identification and parameter estimation; offers supplementary material at an associated website.

Advances in scientific computing have made modelling and simulation an important part of the decision-making process in engineering, science, and public policy. This book provides a comprehensive and systematic development of the basic concepts, principles, and procedures for verification and validation of models and simulations. The emphasis is placed on models that are described by partial differential and integral equations and the simulations that result from their numerical solution. The methods described can be applied to a wide range of technical fields, from the physical sciences, engineering and technology and industry, through to environmental regulations and safety, product and plant safety, financial investing, and governmental regulations. This book will be genuinely welcomed by researchers, practitioners, and decision makers in a broad range of fields, who seek to improve the credibility and reliability of simulation results. It will also be appropriate either for university courses or for independent study.

The first computer simulation book for anyone designing or building a game Answering the growing demand for a book catered for those who design, develop, or use simulations and games this book teaches you exactly what you need to know in order to understand the simulations you build or use all without having to earn another degree. Organized into three parts, this informative book first defines computer simulations and describes how they are different from live-action and paper-based simulations. The second section builds upon the previous, with coverage of the technical details of simulations, a detailed description of how models are built, and an explanation of how those models are translated into simulations. Finally, the last section develops four examples that walk you through the process from model to finished and functional simulation, all of which are created using freely available software and all of which can be downloaded. Targets anyone interested in learning about the inner workings of a simulation or game, but may not necessarily be a programmer or scientist Offers technical details on what simulations are and how they are built without overwhelming you with intricate jargon Breaks down simulation vs. modeling and traditional vs. computer simulations Examines verification and validation and discusses simulation tools Whether you need to learn how simulations work or it's something you've always been curious about but couldn't find the right resource, look no further. The Guide to Computer Simulations and Games is the ideal book for getting a solid understanding of this fascinating subject.

Helps you ensure that your simulations are appropriate representations of real-world systems. The book concentrates on the differentiation between the assessment of a simulation tool and the verification and validation of general software products. It is a systematic, procedural, practical guide that you can use to enhance the credibility of your simulation models. In addition, it is a valuable reference book and a road map for software developers and quality assurance experts, or as a text for simulation methodology and software engineering courses. This book details useful assessment procedures and phases, discusses ways to tailor the methodology for specific situations and objectives, and provides numerous assessment aids. The reader can use these aids to support ongoing assessments over the entire life cycle of the model.

This work began when I was appointed as a Technical Director for Modeling and Simulation (M&S) Verification and Validation (V&V) for a major defense system in 2008. It is intended to provide the nuts and bolts of performing M&S V&V in one volume. It is not intended to provide a holistic approach to M&S V&V, as that can be derived from other sources. As such, this book assumes a basic understanding of V&V, including its place in the lifecycle, its purpose and its scope for ensuring the quality of models and simulations. During the process of developing this text, the Simulation Interoperability Standards Organization (SISO) completed SISO-GUIDE-001.2-2013, Guide for Generic Methodology for Verification and Validation (GM-VV) to Support Acceptance of Models, Simulations, and Data, 2 Volumes, June 2013. The guide does serve the purpose not covered by this book. This text provides procedural details for performing V&V. The procedures are static, dynamic and informal.