Modelling

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Modelling

Simulations

Definition- Is a process that takes various scenarios and applies them to the design and manufacture of all types of product

Simulation Examples

Seat belts- Over the years tests on lap-only belts determined that injury to passengers was much greater than if they wore three-point belts. Modern cars no longer have lap only belts

Aircraft configuration- Simulation modelling enables designers to calculate the impact to seat configuration on passenger safety in the event of an air accident

Uses of simulation models

Car crash analysis- For a simulation for crash testing a car the inputs could include-

Speed, road conditions, condition of brakes/tyres, the make of cars, the direction of collision and the number of passengers

2. Weather forecasting

e.g. animated weather maps showing the path of the storm

The benefits of using spreadsheet software for simulation models

Can perform 'what ifs' to model different situations

Automatic recalculation of formulas when variables are changed

Easy to import data from other sources

Advantages of Simulation Models

Cheaper e.g. than crashing a prototype car

Safer e.g. flight simulation simulator engine fire. It would be far too dangerous to expect a real pilot to try these out

Saves time e.g. global warming models have been set to predict what the effects of global warming will be in the future

Possible to model lots of different situation e.g. pilots can experience all sorts of weather conditions such as storms, hurricanes etc. These would be almost impossible to experience

Disadvantages of Simulation Models

Always a difference between simulation and reality. Real life can be so complicated

The person designing the model may have made mistakes with rules and or the variable data

Some situations are hard to model because some aspects of the model are open to interpretation. E.g. some experts will disagree about rules that