A generative simulation-optimization system

Abstract

The system described in this paper combines a simulation generator and an optimization subroutine. The simulation generator translates a development-oriented description of the system into a simulation program using the SIMAN simulation language. A set of search procedures is combined with the simulation program to assist in the optimization process. The optimization technique and the procedures required to invoke the module within a SIMAN simulation program are explained in the paper. The simulation generator program interactivity assists in the design of experimental models for inventory control systems. It provides an automatically improved experimental design and analysis of the system with the possible direct involvement of a decision maker. This paper shows how simulation generator programs facilitate the creation and execution of simulation models. The described system assists the decision maker in the analysis of the system by providing optimization procedures. The combination of a simulation generator program with optimization procedures not only makes simulation experimentation available to more practitioners, but shortens the process time at each step. Therefore, the analyst will not only be more willing to use simulation as a tool, but also has more time to analyze and design the system.