Discrete event modeling and simulation methodologies: past, present and future

Abstract

Modeling and Simulation methods have been used to better analyze the behavior of complex physical systems and it is now common to use simulation as a part of the scientific and technological discovery process. Formal M&S proved to be successful in providing a sound base for the development of discrete- event simulation models, improving the ease of model definition and enhancing application development tasks. The DEVS formalism is one of these techniques, which proved to be successful in providing means for modeling while reducing development complexity and costs. We will present a historical perspective of discrete-event M&S methodologies and will introduce DEVS origins and general ideas. We will then show the current status of DEVS M&S, and we will discuss a technological perspective to solve current M&S problems (including real-time simulation, interoperability and model-centered development techniques) and its application in different fields. We will finally show current open topics in the area, which include advanced methods for centralized, parallel or distributed simulation, the need of real-time modeling techniques, and our view in these fields.