Simulation Programming Research Articles

Investigation of the poloidal magnetic flux at the PF-3 plasma focus within the framework of the program of laboratory simulation of astrophysical jets

Astrophysical jets are collimated plasma outflows observed in diverse astrophysical settings covering seven decades of spatial scale and twenty decades of power, which, nevertheless, share many common features. This similarity over wide range of scales indicates a common core of physics underlying this phenomenon, leading to considerable interest in observational, theoretical and numerical studies. Laboratory astrophysics experiments for simulating astrophysical jets are premised on this common core of physics responsible for multi-scale similarity of jets remaining valid down to laboratory spatial scales of millimeters. Jets formed after the disassembly of the non-cylindrical z-pinch formed in a plasma focus installation have recently been subjects of observational studies. They offer an important complementarity to the main lines of investigations in two respects. Firstly, the multi-faceted role of gravity, radiation, nuclear reactions and related astrophysics is eliminated retaining only a rapid implosion of a compact plasma object in a magnetohydrodynamic environment as a common feature. Secondly, observations can be made using techniques of laboratory plasma diagnostics. In this paper, we report preliminary results regarding presence of poloidal magnetic flux associated with the jets lasting long after the pinch disassembly. This is significant in the context of uncertainty regarding the origin of poloidal magnetic field postulated in several MHD models of astrophysical jet phenomena. Evidence indicating presence of a radial component of electric field suggests existence of plasma rotation as well. These results suggest that more refined experiments can provide insights into the astrophysical jetting phenomena not available from observational astronomy techniques.

A hybrid local search algorithm for the continuous energy-constrained scheduling problem

AbstractWe consider the continuous energy-constrained scheduling problem (CECSP). A set of jobs has to be processed on a continuous, shared resource. A schedule for a job consists of a start time, completion time, and a resource consumption profile. The goal is to find a schedule such that each job does not start before its release time, is completed before its deadline, satisfies its full resource requirement, and respects its lower and upper bounds on resource consumption during processing. The objective is to minimize the total weighted completion time. We present a hybrid local search approach, using simulated annealing and linear programming, and compare it to a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) formulation. We show that the hybrid local search approach matches the MILP formulation in solution quality for small instances and is able to find a feasible solution for larger instances in reasonable time.

ChemPlasKin: A general-purpose program for unified gas and plasma kinetics simulations

This work introduces ChemPlasKin, a freely accessible solver optimized for zero-dimensional (0D) simulations of chemical kinetics of neutral gas in non-equilibrium plasma environments. By integrating the electron Boltzmann equation solver, CppBOLOS, with the open-source combustion library, Cantera, at the source code level, ChemPlasKin computes time-resolved evolution of species concentration and gas temperature in a unified gas–plasma kinetics framework. The model allows high fidelity predictions of both chemical thermal effects and plasma-induced heating, including fast gas heating and slower vibrational–translational relaxation processes. Additionally, a new heat loss model is developed for nanosecond pulsed discharges, specifically within pin–pin electrode configurations. With its versatility, ChemPlasKin is well-suited for a wide range of applications, from plasma-assisted combustion (PAC) to fuel reforming. In this paper, the reliability, accuracy and efficiency of ChemPlasKin are validated through a number of test problems, demonstrating its utility in advancing gas–plasma kinetic studies.

Research on fruit picking test of blueberry harvesting machinery under transmission clearance

Since China possesses the vast territory and a large blueberry planting area, blueberry harvesting with hand is laborious and time consuming. As the blueberry planting agronomy in China is different from other countries, it is pretty significant to develop blueberry harvesting machinery applicable to the domestic planting agronomy to achieve mechanized harvesting of blueberries. In blueberry harvesting operation, the harvesting system as the core component of the machine is the key technology of the harvesting machinery. The previous study found that: in terms of harvesting machinery, most of the literature has studied the dynamic characteristics, while few articles have been published to study the transmission clearance. But the clearance collision force generated by the transmission clearance of the harvesting system directly affected the output load moment and harvesting force of the machine developed by acting on the plant, and then affected the picking efficiency and the quality of picked fruit. Therefore, this paper focuses on the study of the transmission clearance of the blueberry harvesting machine. Firstly, the MLSD modeling method was applied to establish the transmission clearance model of the harvesting device, and the corresponding mechanical analysis of the transmission clearance was carried out. Secondly, after programming in MATLAB software and simulation in ADAMS software, the correctness of the transmission clearance model of the harvesting device was verified in different environments. The multi-body dynamics analysis software ADAMS was used for building the transmission clearance model of the harvesting device and perform mechanical simulation to analyze the clearance collision force and the output load moment of the harvesting device. Pro/E, ADAMS and ANSYS software were integrated to establish the flexible body of blueberry plant. Then the flexible body was combined with the mechanical model of harvesting device for rigid-flexible coupling simulation analysis to study the fruit harvesting force under different transmission clearances. Finally, the orthogonal method was used to conduct field test on blueberry harvesting to study the influence of the transmission clearance on the quality of picked fruit and picking efficiency of the machinery. Therefore, the best combination of the transmission clearance of the harvester was obtained as follows: cam clearance (the clearance joints of cam) was 0.25 mm, the slider clearance was 0.2 mm, left connecting rod clearance pair was 0.1 mm, right connecting rod clearance pair was 0.2 mm; the field picking test was conducted to obtain the machine's picking efficiency was 3.93 kg min−1, the shedding rate of unripe fruit was 3.1 %, and the damage rate of picked fruit was 2.8 %. The research findings of this paper can offer referenced basis and theoretical support for berry harvesting machinery, and also can provide guidance for the design and improvement of other agricultural and forestry harvesting machinery.

APPLICATION OF ALGORITHMS FOR ANOMALY DETECTION IN HEALTH-ENABLED SENSOR-CLOUD INFRASTRUCTURE

Real-time patient monitoring and early disease diagnosis are two ways that the healthcare industry is benefiting from the integration of sensors and cloud technology. In order to detect changes in patient's health, a variety of non-invasive sensors are applied to the skin to monitor various physiological parameters. The collected data are then wirelessly communicated to the cloud data center. However, the transmitted data are susceptible to several sources of interference called anomalies. Anomalies is when a sudden change occurs from the expected sensor data generated. This may be as a result of sensor faults, measurement faults, injection and alteration by malicious attackers. Therefore, this research tends to conduct a survey on existing algorithms or techniques used for the detection of anomalies in health-enabled sensor-cloud infrastructure. The processes adopted by the algorithms were identified and discussed exhaustively. In addition, the simulation setup and programming languages adopted to implement and evaluate the existing algorithms, followed by the limitations of the algorithms, which may lead to future research directions are captured in this paper. The outcome of the research shows that machine learning algorithms were predominantly adopted for detecting anomalies with the support of clustering and classification processes. Furthermore, Visual Basic.Net simulation tool and Python programming language was mostly adopted for experimentation and evaluation of the existing techniques. Limitations such as overfitting, under-fitting, computation complexity (time and memory space), and missing data are hindering the optimal performance of existing algorithm, which needs to be addressed in future researches.

Orthodontic System Modeled and Simulated with the Lingual Technique to Assess Tooth Forces.

CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) is an imaging investigation that provides three-dimensional (3D) images of craniofacial structures. The purpose of this study is to determine the mechanical behavior of an orthodontic system where the lingual treatment technique was used in a 25-year-old female patient from whom a set of CBCT scans was used. CBCT images were processed through software programs such as Invesalius, Geomagic, and Solid Works, to create models containing virtual solids. These models were then imported into Ansys Workbench 2019 R3 (a finite element method software program) for successive simulations to generate displacement maps, deformations, stress distributions, and diagrams. We observed that in the lingual technique, the lowest force occurring on the maxillary teeth is at 1.1, while the highest force appears at 2.3. In the mandible, the lowest force occurs at 4.6, and the highest force at 3.1. The values of the forces and the results of the finite element method can represent a basis for the innovation of new orthodontic springs and also of bracket elements. Thus, by using new technologies, orthodontic practice can be significantly improved for the benefit of patients. Other virtual methods and techniques can be used in future studies, including the application of virtual reality for orthodontic diagnosis.

Validation of a synthetic simulation model of endoscopic rectus sheath plication.

Literature reviews outline minimally invasive approaches for abdominal diastasis in patients without skin excess. However, few surgeons are trained in endoscopic rectus sheath plication, and no simulated training programs exist for this method. This study aimed to develop and validate a synthetic simulation model for the training of skills in this approach under the Messick validity framework. A cross-sectional study was carried out to assess the participants' previous level of laparoscopic/endoscopic skills by a questionnaire. Participants performed an endoscopic plication on the model and their performance was evaluated by one blinded observer using the global rating scale OSATS and a procedure specific checklist (PSC) scale. A 5-level Likert survey was applied to 5 experts and 4 plastic surgeons to assess Face and Content validity. Fifteen non-experts and 5 experts in abdominal wall endoscopic surgery were recruited. A median OSATS score [25 (range 24-25) vs 14 (range 5-22); p < 0.05 of maximum 25 points] and a median PSC score [11 (range 10-11) vs 8 (range 3-10); p < 0.05 of maximum 11 points] was significantly higher for experts compared with nonexperts. All experts agreed or strongly agreed that the model simulates a real scenario of endoscopic plication of the rectus sheath. Our simulation model met all validation criteria outlined in the Messick framework, demonstrating its ability to differentiate between experts and non-experts based on their baseline endoscopic surgical skills. This model stands as a valuable tool for evaluating skills in endoscopic rectus sheath plication.

Equity, diversity and inclusion in simulation-based education: constructing a developmental framework for medical educators

BackgroundThemes of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) arise commonly within healthcare simulation. Though faculty development guidance and standards include increasing reference to EDI, information on how faculty might develop in this area is lacking. With increasingly formal expectations being placed on simulation educators to adhere to EDI principles, we require a better understanding of the developmental needs of educators and clear guidance so that teams can work towards these expectations. Our study had two aims: Firstly, to explore the extent to which an existing competency framework for medical teachers to teach ethnic and cultural diversity is relevant for simulation educator competency in EDI, and secondly, informed by the data gathered, to construct a modified competency framework in EDI for simulation educators.MethodsWe engaged our participants (10 simulation faculty) in a 5-month period of enhanced consideration of EDI, using the SIM-EDI tool to support faculty debriefing conversations focussed on EDI within a pre-existing programme of simulation. We interviewed participants individually at two timepoints and analysed transcript data using template analysis. We employed an existing competency framework for medical teachers as the initial coding framework. Competencies were amended for the simulation context, modified based on the data, and new themes were added inductively, to develop a new developmental framework for simulation educators.ResultsInterview data supported the relevance of the existing competency framework to simulation. Modifications made to the framework included the incorporation of two inductively coded themes (‘team reflection on EDI’ and ‘collaboration’), as well as more minor amendments to better suit the healthcare simulation context. The resultant Developmental Framework for Simulation Educators in EDI outlines 10 developmental areas we feel are required to incorporate consideration of EDI into simulation programmes during the design, delivery and debriefing phases. We propose that the framework acts as a basis for simulation faculty development in EDI.ConclusionsSimulation faculty development in EDI is important and increasingly called for by advisory bodies. We present a Developmental Framework for Simulation Educators in EDI informed by qualitative data. We encourage simulation teams to incorporate this framework into faculty development programmes and report on their experiences.

Born-Oppenheimer Molecular Dynamics with a Linear Combination of Atomic Orbitals and Hybrid Functionals for Condensed Matter Simulations Made Possible. Theory and Performance for the Microcanonical and Canonical Ensembles.

The implementation of an original Born-Oppenheimer molecular dynamics module is presented, which is able to perform simulations of large and complex condensed phase systems for sufficiently long time scales at the level of density functional theory with hybrid functionals, in the microcanonical (NVE) and canonical (NVT) ensembles. The algorithm is fully integrated in the Crystal code, a program for quantum mechanical simulations of materials, whose peculiarity stems from the use of atom-centered basis functions within a linear combination of atomic orbitals to describe the wave function. The corresponding efficiency in the evaluation of the exact Fock exchange series has led to the implementation of a rich variety of hybrid density functionals at a low computational cost. In addition, the molecular dynamics implementation benefits also from the effective MPI parallelization of the code, suited to exploit high-performance computing resources available on current generation supercomputer architectures. Furthermore, the information contained in the trajectory of the dynamics is extracted through a series of postprocessing algorithms that provide the radial distribution function, the diffusion coefficient and the vibrational density of states. In this work, we present a detailed description of the theoretical framework and the algorithmic implementation, followed by a critical evaluation of the accuracy and parallel performance (e.g., strong and weak scaling) of this approach, when ice and liquid water simulations are performed in the microcanonical and canonical ensembles.

Noise in detectors containing distributed resistive elements

We discuss the thermal noise originating from distributed resistive materials in particle detectors like Resistive Plate Chambers or Resistive Micro-Pattern Gas Detectors. The complex impedance Z(f) of the detector as seen by the amplifier input terminal is the key number defining the noise power spectrum. We give some analytic examples and show how this number can be calculated for any detector geometry using numerical simulations programs.

Learning to teach with simulation: historical insights

AbstractSimulation-based learning (SBL) has been trialed and embedded in many disciplines and professions over many years to practice complex skills before embarking on real-life applications. Much research has confirmed the benefits of SBL and found simulations are among the most effective means to facilitate the learning of complex skills across domains. Yet, despite this evidence-based support for SBL, teacher education continues to be slow to adopt and embed SBL within their programs. This paper compares literature on two of the longest and widest adopted simulated programs in teacher education, Second Life and simSchool—to gain insight into the research types, findings and reasons for limited implementation. The findings support previously confirmed pedagogical benefits of SBL increasing student self-efficacy and reveal commonalities and differences between the two simulated platforms and a lack of adoption of SBL that centres around costs, accessibility and technical issues. The findings are positioned in practice-theory literature and highlight SBL’s ability to provide preservice teachers with a ‘third space’ where theory can be practiced, rehearsed and reviewed virtually before real classroom transference occurs. We offer recommendations that will stimulate future research and support wider adoption of SBL in Initial Teacher Education (ITE).

Optimal scheduling of a microgrid based on renewable resources and demand response program using stochastic and IGDT-based approach

Optimal economic scheduling of microgrids with photovoltaic (PV) and wind generation has gained increased attention during recent years. Integration of renewable energy resources in microgrids requires increasingly active control and management of energy storages and demand response (DR). In this paper, a risk-based stochastic optimal energy management model is developed for microgrid with renewables, energy storage and load control by time-of-use-based DR programs. Microgrid includes PV system, wind system, micro-turbine, fuel cell, electric vehicle (EV), and energy storage. Information-gap decision theory (IGDT) is employed to address the uncertainty of loads and to provide the operating strategies for the microgrid controllable energy resources. This proposed model has been solved as a mixed-integer non-linear programming (MINLP) in General Algebraic Modeling System (GAMS) software and simulation results in different conditions are studied and discussed. Three different risk management strategies have been studied such as risk-averse, risk-neutral and risk-seeker mode. The simulation results indicate that the impacts of risk-averseness or risk-seeker of the decision maker affect the system operation. For instance, the results showed the DR program's role in risk-averse and risk-taking strategies, impacting consumption and costs. The proposed model ensures the risk-averse decision-maker that if the uncertain parameter deviates within the optimum robustness region, the final cost will not exceed the critical cost. On the other hand, the risk-seeking decision-maker can reach lower final costs by accepting the risks if the uncertain parameter deviates favorably within the opportunity region. Decision-makers can manage risks by adjusting consumption. Thus, considering the cost of risk management is crucial, as it increases with robust or opportunistic approaches.

Improved Sensitivity of MEMS-based Piezoresistive Pressure Sensor using Silicon Nitride Diaphragm

In this paper, Piezoresistive Pressure Sensor (PPS) with four Polysilicon piezoresistors on Si3N4 diaphragm with improved sensitivity is successfully designed by using MEMS technology. Sensing is accomplished via deposited polysilicon resistors like metal resistors. The analytical model of PPS is optimized for location and geometry of the piezoresistors and the sensors based on different aspect ratios (both square and rectangular) have been investigated. The performance parameters like maximum deflection, maximum induced stress on the diaphragm have been compared using ANSYS and MATLAB simulation programming based on mathematical model. By interpreting the proper selection of the geometry of a thin Si3N4 diaphragm, the maximum deflection, maximum induced stress and highest sensitivity for this sensor are obtained for the diaphragm when aspect ratio is minimum. It has been found that sensitivity of the sensor is achieved when the piezoresistors are symmetrically placed at 65 m from the edges of the diaphragm. The analysis describes that the sensor based on square diaphragm is more sensitive than the rectangular one. It is influenced more powerfully by diaphragm thickness. The applied pressure range is considered from 0.5 kPa to 40 kPa. From the simulation results, the shape and the sensor design can be optimized for a highly sensitive PPS.

Revenue Management Strategies in Airline Industry: A Literature Review

The airline industry has rapidly evolved, fostering intense competition among companies. This competition drives airlines to formulate strategies for revenue maximization, giving rise to Revenue Management. This literature review spans the past 13 years, examining the development of Airline Revenue Management methods. By analyzing 22 journals with at least Q2 and SINTA 2 indexing, three primary scopes emerge: Quantity Decision, Pricing Decision, and Structural Decision. Airlines predominantly employ dynamic pricing and programming to optimize revenue by adapting to ongoing changes. The development trend in Airline Revenue Management indicates a shift towards faster and more accurate processing through increased integration with simulation and algorithm programming. This paper identifies the three main scopes involved in revenue management strategies and explores the diverse approaches airlines take to optimize income. Notably, dynamic pricing and programming remain prevalent methods, adapting to changing decision variables. The evolving landscape emphasizes integration with advanced technology for efficient processing. The study utilizes numerical and case studies to exemplify the ongoing development of Airline Revenue Management methods within this dynamic industry.

Monte Carlo random walk simulation of transient absorption kinetics using reflectance and absorption of electrons at Au/TiO2 nanoparticle boundaries

To understand plasmon-induced charge-transfer mechanisms between a photo-excited gold (Au) nanoparticle and a TiO2 nanoparticle, a Monte Carlo random walk (MCRW) simulation was applied to reproduce the charge recombination kinetics in the nanocrystalline (Au/TiO[Formula: see text] assemblies reported previously based on transient absorption spectroscopy. The Au/TiO2 assemblies consist of a confined electron diffusion space within a tiny TiO2 nanoparticle, making it possible to study electron diffusion transport through MCRW simulation. In this simulation algorithm, the electron diffusion starts at the coordinate origin of a rectangle, and the next direction of movement is obtained by calculating the coordinate matrix and random offset so that the electron is reflected on three boundaries and absorbed when it reaches the other boundary. By simulation programming, the histogram which indicates the occurrence frequency of the step accumulation number up to the right boundary was obtained. From 100 to 100000 steps under condition of 10000 iteration, that is, changing the steps but keeping the iteration times to ensure that all particles experience absorption in the simulation. Comparing the trace of 106 particles position with that of 104 under 1000 simulations, the electron density was found to saturate other than the region near the right boundary, where electrons disappear by the absorption process during the electron diffusion process. Finally, by fitting curves, it is confirmed that the tendency of the simulated response reproduced the transient absorption kinetics.

ЗАГАЛЬНА ХАРАКТЕРИСТИКА СИСТЕМИ ІМІТАЦІЙНОГО МОДЕЛЮВАННЯ GPSS

The article examines the general characteristics of the GPSS simulation modeling system. Researching the topic is relevant because it is essential for comprehending and effectively utilizing a fundamental tool in the realm of simulation modeling. GPSS (General Purpose Simulation System) has been a prominent simulation language and environment for several decades, serving as a key instrument for modeling and analyzing complex systems across various domains. It is noted that the GPSS World simulation system is a modern and powerful tool for research and analysis of various systems, in particular in the field of mass service systems. Through its development history from the original GPSS to the latest version GPSS World, it has acquired a number of improvements that make it unique and highly effective. This system has a high level of interactivity, extensive functionality and the ability to model both discrete and continuous processes. Visualization and animation tools built into the system facilitate convenient observation and analysis of simulation results. Exploring the general characteristics of GPSS is essential for several reasons. Investigating the fundamental characteristics of GPSS provides insights into its underlying principles, methodologies, and computational mechanisms. By comprehensively studying the features and capabilities of GPSS, researchers can identify opportunities for enhancing its performance, scalability, and usability. GPSS offers a range of modeling constructs, simulation controls, and statistical analysis tools. Exploring its general characteristics allows researchers to uncover the full spectrum of modeling capabilities and adapt them to diverse application scenarios. As simulation modeling evolves, GPSS continues to evolve alongside new methodologies, techniques, and technologies. Investigating its general characteristics facilitates integration with advanced modeling approaches such as agent-based modeling, discrete-event simulation optimization, or hybrid simulation paradigms. Researching the general characteristics of GPSS contributes to educational initiatives in simulation modeling and operations research. It provides valuable content for instructional materials, textbooks, and courses aimed at introducing students to simulation concepts, programming languages, and best practices.

Preliminary investigations into the predator prey dynamics of Indian dinosaurs by agent-based modelling simulations

Advancements in computer simulations have facilitated the understanding of paleobiology and paleoecology of extinct animals even in cases of limited paleontological evidence. Two dinosaur species, Rajasaurus narmadensis(Wilson), and Isisaurus colberti (Jain &amp; Bandyopadhyay) dominated the late Maastrichtian stage of upper Cretaceous Lameta formation in India, whose paleobiology is poorly understood. A preliminary approach to understand the predator prey dynamics of these two dinosaur species is presented in this study using Agent Based Modelling Simulations (ABMs) program Netlogo by modelling the agents under three scenarios of varying predator prey ratio (PPR) and analyzing the results. The results revealed that the scenario with the high PPR provided maximal predation success, faster and higher kill numbers and overall predation efficiency, similar to extant predators/ facultative scavengers. Further research including additional key factors in the simulation models are necessary for a better understanding of the paleoecology of these dinosaurs.

HSABC ALGORITHM FOR ECONOMIC OPERATION EMISSION BASED

The total cost of maintaining the energy infrastructure is one of the most important problems. Technically, this issue considers the fuels and emissions of generating units working within specific parameters in an Economic Operation Emission Based (EOEB). This study evaluates the performance of the Harvest Season Artificial Bee Colony (HSABC) Algorithm in search of the best EOEB solution. To compute the EOEB issue on the IEEE-62 bus system, simulation programming techniques are applied based on HSABC Algorithm. The simulation findings indicate that the investigated approaches have a range of characteristics, speed, starting, and statistical value values.

A29Simulation Integration: A Multispecialty Programme Embedding Simulation within Departmental Teaching Programmes in two Cardiothoracic Centres

UK-based doctors in training have faced major disruption, loss of training opportunities and increased risk of burnout due to covid-19 [1,2]. Furthermore, the intensified post-covid strain on services continues to hamper efforts to restore training. A bottom-up review across departments at both of our sites revealed demand across specialties and grades for increased simulated training opportunities. Further highlighting the need for additional simulation programmes, simulated training has recently been demonstrated to reduce risk of burnout [3]. To restore lost learning opportunities, improve morale and promote team cohesion, we began a project to embed simulated training at a departmental level. A key aim of this project was to give departments ownership of their simulation programmes, to promote autonomy, tutor upskilling and sustainability. We systematically reviewed the curricula for all specialties with doctors-in-training across our two sites in order to establish how training needs could be met with simulation. Consultant ‘simulation lead’ positions were offered to consultants in each department. Following this, we met with each assigned simulation lead to perform a scoping exercise - thus establishing specific training needs and opportunities within each department. The medical education team used this information to support each department to develop its own simulated training programme and support its delivery. Crucially, unlike many simulated training opportunities, our programme is not tied to a particular training scheme nor does it incur any fees. This allows equal access to the programme for both locally employed doctors and Health Education England trainees. We worked with 13 departments in developing simulation-based training programmes. Eight departments had a single lead identified, three shared lead positions and in two departments no consultants assumed the position of lead. Experience and enthusiasm varied by department. In departments where a simulation lead was not identified, the education department has supported other team members such as Clinical Nurse Specialists and specialty registrars to devise and deliver sim-based training. Anonymized Microsoft Forms based post-course questionnaire responses completed by 42 participants to date have been overwhelmingly positive (outlined in Percentage of attendees rating the following areas as ‘agree’ or ‘strongly agree’ Our scheme has led to embedding of effective simulated training programmes across specialties at our sites, leading to sustainably improved training opportunities for post graduate doctors in the post covid era. Authors confirm that all relevant ethical standards for research conduct and dissemination have been met. The submitting author confirms that relevant ethical approval was granted, if applicable.

A11An evaluation of student views on the use of virtual simulation in undergraduate pharmacy education

In part due motivated by a lack of in-person placement opportunities for undergraduate pharmacy students during the COVID-19 pandemic, a UK university teaching team developed a programme of virtual simulated placement-style events to support undergraduate pharmacy students in developing skills and experience to support them in engaging with their foundation training. These experiences were developed at a time of significant change for undergraduate pharmacy training, as all new pharmacists being annotated as independent prescribers at the point of registration from 2026 onwards [1]. It has been reported that in medical students, the use of virtual patient simulation could improve clinical reasoning skills [2] but evidence of student views on the acceptability and implementation of virtual simulation in the target audience is limited and frequently not reflective of the style of self-directed simulation being utilized. This work aimed to evaluate final-year undergraduate pharmacy student views of the impact of the introduction of a programme of student-led virtual simulation on their education. In academic years 2020–2021 and 2021–2022, an electronic questionnaire was distributed to final-year students who had recently been introduced to and given access to a range of student-led virtual placement experiences in academic years. Prior to administering questionnaires to students, the study was approved by the relevant school research ethics committee. Questionnaires were formed of a mixture of qualitative and quantitative questions, and asked students about their experiences of engagement with virtual simulation and views on the potential applications of virtual simulation in the curriculum. Quantitative data were analysed by simple descriptive statistics, and a critical review of free-text responses was performed through grounded theory to identify emergent key themes. A total of 43 student questionnaires were collected, with 18 responses (41.9%) being received in the academic year 2020–2021 and 25 responses (58.1%) received in the academic year 2022. 88.4% of respondents agreed that the introduction of virtual simulation would enhance their educational experience. Four key themes emerged from qualitative data analysis: individuality and autonomy, convenience, immediacy, and control. Students most commonly believed that the second year of the 4-year Master of Pharmacy programme is the optimal time for the introduction of placement-style virtually simulated experiences. Final-year undergraduate pharmacy students believed that the introduction of a programme of student-led virtual simulation would enhance their educational experience. Students were found to value the convenience, control and autonomy of the introduction of student-led virtual simulation. Authors confirm that all relevant ethical standards for research conduct and dissemination have been met. The submitting author confirms that relevant ethical approval was granted, if applicable.