A web-based interactive simulation architecture for airbase logistics systems analysis

Portable interactive simulations that support concurrent multi-user interac tion are useful in the analysis of large and semistructured problems especi ally those in which human interaction are of important consideration. Emerg ing concepts in distributed computing provide enabling technologies for the development of flexible and portable interactive simulation infrastructure . This article describes an object-based interactive simulation architectur e, through which multiple users can interact concurrently with an executing simulation from distributed locations. The simulation executes on a server and users can connect in to the simulation and provide user commands throu gh interfaces implemented as separate processes. This article describes the architectural components and demonstrates application in a real-world prob lem in the domain of airbase logistics. This paper also presents an evaluat ion of the effectiveness of various means of facilitating communication bet ween interfaces and the simulation process including the use of Java applic ation programming through sockets, Java programs integrated with Common Obj ect Request Broker Architecture technology, and Java's remote method invoca tion protocol.