Industry simulation: System modelling with an object oriented/DEVS technology

This paper describes results from a research project seeking to develop an object oriented modelling environment to facilitate the use of industry simulation models. The underlying motivation for this approach is first discussed and a new method is then compared with the more commonly used system dynamics framework. The major developments presented in this paper are: representation of the model as a hierarchical structure, distinction between different types of entities and relationships within the system; the time management of the modelling environment based on Zeigler's discrete event simulation set theoretic formalism; and a model specification language built in Smalltalk. Finally an application to the UK electricity industry is reported and compared with an equivalent model in system dynamics. The OO/DEVS approach seems to offer several advantages for business policy analysis and strategy support.