An Integrated Simulation Environment Combining Process-Driven and Event-Driven Models

A simulation framework that integrates process-driven and event-driven approaches offers a powerful combination of tools to the modeler. In process-driven simulation models, the system can be represented by block diagrams or system networks through which entities flow to mimic real life system objects. In event-driven models, the system can be represented by event graphs, which focus on the abstraction of the event rather than on observable physical entities. In this research, a simulation environment is proposed that integrates both the approaches, i.e. process and event. One of the main outcomes of working in such an environment is that modelers can manage the complexity of large models based on real-world systems through process orientation, while retaining the control over the attributes, variables and the logic through event orientation. Discrete event simulation is often taught to students at either the event level or the process level. A simulation tool that effectively preserves both levels would be helpful in more effectively educating future simulation modelers