Discrete simulation. An introduction in Modula-2 (Q1189425)

This text-book about discrete simulation is a first course to system theory, modelling of complex systems and simulation with an interdisciplinary claim from an applications point of view. Therefore the first two chapters of the book spend much space for motivations to this abstract view and for detailed expositions. The use of Modula-2 for time discrete simulation is shown in detail in chapter 3. Modula-2 is a higher programming language, which fulfills very good implementation requirements of simulation models. Chapter 4 presents the statistical methods in simulation: generating of random numbers, statistical tests and estimation methods. Chapter 5 shows the importance of model validation and its principles. In chapter 6 a classification scheme for simulation software is given and simulation systems are discussed. As a prototype system IBS (Interaktives Blockorientiertes Simulationssystem) serves as an example. In chapter 7, the software packet DESMO (Discrete Event Simulation in Modula-2) for time discrete simulation, developed in 1987-1989 is shown in concepts, examples and applications. Chapter 8 of the book starts with an outlook to new developments e.g. objectoriented modelling and AI- methods, particularly expert system installation to support modelling and simulation. Nearly half of the book consists of appendices: Appendix A: exercises and projects, appendix B: simulation programs in Modula-2, Appendix C: A DESMO-user documentation and appendix D: program-listings of the illustrative models of the text. The book is very useful for beginners in the field of system theory and simulation. Some basic knowledge in Modula-2 or Pascal and in probability theory and statistics would be helpful.