Conceptual modelling for simulation Part II: a framework for conceptual modelling

Abstract

Following on from the definition of a conceptual model and its requirements laid out in a previous paper, a framework for conceptual modelling is described. The framework consists of five iterative activities: understanding the problem situation, determining the modelling and general project objectives, identifying the model outputs, identify the model inputs, and determining the model content. The framework is demonstrated with a modelling application at a Ford Motor Company engine assembly plant. The paper concludes with a discussion on identifying data requirements from the conceptual model and the assessment of the conceptual model.

Keywords:

• discrete-event simulation
• model development
• conceptual modelling
• validation

Acknowledgements

Some sections of this paper are based on:

• Robinson S (2004). Simulation: The Practice of Model Development and Use. Wiley: Chichester, UK.

• Robinson S (2004). Designing the conceptual model in simulation studies. In: Brailsford SC, Oakshott L, Robinson S, Taylor SJE (eds). Proceedings of the 2004 Operational Research Society Simulation Workshop (SW04). Operational Research Society: Birmingham, UK, pp 259–266.

• Robinson S (2006). Issues in conceptual modelling for simulation: Setting a research agenda. In: Garnett J, Brailsford S, Robinson S, Taylor S (eds). Proceedings of the Third Operational Research Society Simulation Workshop (SW06). The Operational Research Society: Birmingham, UK, pp. 165–174.

• Robinson S (2006). Conceptual modeling for simulation: Issues and research requirements. In: Perrone LF, Wieland FP, Liu J, Lawson BE, Nicol DM and Fujimoto RM (eds). Proceedings of the 2006 Winter Simulation Conference. IEEE: Piscataway, NJ, pp 792–800.

The Ford engine plant example is used with the permission of John Ladbrook, Ford Motor Company.