Article Abstract:
This paper proposes a new approach to simulation modeling of natural systems in the context of water quality modeling in streams affected by point source pollution. The approach has a potential for application to other domains of natural resource modeling. Its conceptual basis is knowledge-based simulation and systems analysis. In the approach presented in this paper, a stream or its section is viewed as a collection of components, i.e. stream segments. The structure of a stream is its segments and their couplings. For each stream segment, a single constituent model describing processes affecting the segment's water quality is defined. Models are coupled in a hierarchical manner. The hierarchical, modular model specification results in a stream model comprised of a finite number of sub-segment models. Fundamental theoretical concepts supporting such a specification are described. A prototype simulation modeling environment to support prediction of water quality in streams has been implemented and tested. The proposed approach differs from other natural systems modeling frameworks in that it offers modular model specification facilities, high degree of model reusability, and support for model selection and coupling. (Reprinted by permission of the publisher.)
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Article Abstract:
A demonstration simulation program was developed on an IBM-AT personal computer to aid students in understanding the effects of altering rate constants on simple one and two compartment pharmacokinetic models. This menu driven system graphically presents specific sets of simulated curves illustrating how all components of a model interact. The student selects one of the five models and also determines which portion of the model is to be altered. The aim of the program is to teach the user to anticipate the outcome of the model alteration and interactions. The program was developed with the use of PC Storyboard, a demonstration software package, which provided the tools necessary for an elegant program presentation. This interactive presentation graphic program illustrates a viable means of conveying simulation models to a novice audience. (Reprinted by permission of the publisher.)
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Article Abstract:
A table present a wide range of available simulation software for microcomputers, minicomputers, mainframe computers. The table presents information on the name and approximate cost of each package, the kind of system on which it runs, the operating system or other software required, a contact person, and a brief description of the capabilities of the package.
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