THE IMPACT OF INTELLIGENT TOOLS ON SIMULATION METHODOLOGY

Abstract

Simulation is one of the most effective techniques for analyzing stochastic systems. Recent computer software and hardware advances have had an important impact on the traditional discrete-event simulation methodology. Intelligent simulation environments consisting of integrated sets of “intelligent” tools for performing simulation studies have emerged. These tools significantly impact the methodology of a simulation analysis. This paper defines these intelligent tools and discusses how they alter the simulation paradigm by illustrating the development of a simulation model using an intelligent simulation environment. Special emphasis is on how an intelligent simulation environment provides a responsive analysis technique for studying manufacturing systems.