An integrated simulation and optimization modelling environment for decision support

Abstract

A general framework and a specific implementation of a software environment for model prototyping, simulation and optimization are presented. The integration of simulation and optimization, and the possibility of comparing experimental results under complete user control represent the central parts of the proposed approach. Optimization is performed by repetitive simulation runs under the control of an optimization method. The integration of simulation and optimization as well as the post processing facilities offer an effective support to the classical phases of the decision process: intelligence, design, and choice. The software is based on an object-oriented structure and encourages the user to develop his own hierarchy of model classes and experiments.