Modeling control in computer simulations

Abstract

This study outlines the design, implementation, and testing of the General Control Model as applied to the Future Theater-Level Model (FTLM) for the control of Joint and Allied Forces for all operational sides. The study develops a notion of battlefield control and describes the characteristics necessary to represent this notion of control in a computer simulation. Central to the implementation of the General Control Model is the robust capability for the user-analyst to describe any control relationship of research interest and to do so without having to alter the programming code. The user-analyst is provided the capability to determine the cause and effect relationship of different control representations in a simulation. A full description of the model is complimented by an explanation of the implementation to facilitate the use of the General Control Model. A discussion of the initial test results leads to a more rigorous test which confirms the intended behavior of the General Control Model in FTLM. Lastly, recommendations for future improvements to the General Control Model and FTLM are outlined to assist future research endeavors.