A framework for modeling and simulating spatial dynamics

This work develops a conceptual framework for modeling and simulating spatial dynamics. The framework links modeling of time variability with spatial variability. With current modeling in environmental analysis taking place at the discrete level (modeling fire, hiker behavior, or watershed run-off), it is the task of this thesis to provide a conceptual framework for integration of these discrete components in a systems like simulation environment for modeling their interactions through time. It explores the utility of the discrete event simulation framework developed by Zeigler (1976, 1984) for linking different environmental models in an interactive environment. It expands Zeigler's framework by linking cellular automata methodology to the discrete event methodology. Finally, this thesis demonstrates event modeling and simulation concepts used in the framework