A framework for interoperability of virtual reality and simulation models in support of training

Abstract

Computer-based Modeling and Simulation (MS however, at present there is no way to integrate 3D visualization for DEVS and Cell-DEVS (using interactive, collaborative platforms). Likewise, developing and modifying scenarios in existing VR environments usually requires significant efforts in programming and validation. In order to solve the aforementioned problems, this thesis focuses on the definition, design, and performance analysis of the visual Cell-DEVS (VCELL) framework, which allows different simulation models to receive real-time data to interact, collaborate, and adapt to simulation events (integrating 3D visualization, sensor data, DEVS, and Cell-DEVS modeling and simulation), which improves the models' design. As a proof of concept, we applied VCELL to different applications, including building information modeling (BIM), emergency and disaster simulation, and land combat simulation. BIM is used to generate and manage data for buildings during the project life cycle. Existing BIM applications include models for indoor climate, energy consumption, and CO2 emissions. However, they do not take into consideration other problems. This research shows a more generic environment for Cell-DEVS and BIM integration, and a prototype implementation in the form of BIM for Cell-DEVS simulation and visualization. In emergency and disaster simulations, it is usually important to consider the system evolution in time and space. Generally, such simulations are large-scale programs, which in turn raise the need for efficient simulation engines. However, some of these emergency simulations do not have real-time input data and are not adaptive. VCELL solves these problems, allowing the emergency simulation to be integrated with 3D visualization in real time. In the area of land combat simulation, agent-based distillation (ABD) provides a method for studying different land combat behaviors, which helps with decision-making. ABD movement algorithms are used to simulate the target's movement in the battlefield by a large set of parameters. However, under some circumstances, these movement algorithms use random movements, which may result in an unpredicted simulation output. We propose to use a model that integrates a cellular agent model and a collaborative 3D visual agent model in real time. VCELL allows the randomization problem to be solved, providing more stable output and reducing the scenario development, modification, and validation time. The main ideas, design, and implementation of VCELL are discussed, and the case studies are presented in detail.