3 - The Modeling Process

Abstract

This chapter presents the modeling process. A model is a representation of a system in a convenient fashion so that the conjectures that are made about the performance of the system can be readily tested. The term “model” implies a manifestation of the interpretation that a scientist gives to observed facts. Facts remain unchanged, but models change. The term “model” covers a variety of configurations. It can be a symbolic model, such as a set of mathematical or logical equations; an iconic model, such as a map or a scale model; an analog model, such as an electrical or mechanical device; or a logical model, such as a flow chart or a computer program. Models can be categorized into different classes and sub-classes, and this classification can be done in different ways. A distinction can be made between descriptive models and prescriptive models. A mathematical model is a set of equations that characterizes a real-life system, the prototype system, in the sense that some of the excitation response relationships of the prototype system are correctly represented.