A taxonomy for simulation modeling based on programming language principles

Although many diverse areas employ simulation models, no agreed-upon taxono my has been developed to categorize and structure simulation models for all science and engineering disciplines. The discipline of simulation is often splintered due to this lack of structure, with ad hoc model classes such a s 'discrete event,' 'continuous' and 'combined.' These classes most often r eflect the method of execution used on a model rather than the design struc ture of the model. We present a uniform model design taxonomy whose categor ies are inspired from categories in programming language principles within the field of computer science. The taxonomy includes a set of primitive mod el types (conceptual, declarative, functional, constraint, spatial) and a w ay of integrating primitive model types together (multimodeling). These mod el types are discussed using a single application: a robot server for an as sembly line. We have found this taxonomy enables simulators to more easily define and categorize their models as well as to understand how model types from seemingly disparate application areas are interrelated.