The Cascade Principle and The Level of Detail Problem in Simulating Complex Systems-Experience, Advantages and Drawbacks

摘要

The amount and type of detail, that is to be included in a model of a system is always a major problem in any simulation modeling and/or decision making activity. It is referred further in the paper as the "LEVEL OF DETAIL" (LD) problem. An over or underestination of what amount of detail a model should contain may jeopardize the simulation results or make the simulation project unreliable in terms of time, effort and cost. So far the judgment concerning the LD was generally left to the experience nad inuition of the individual or term, developing the model. There are no specific guidelines or formal procedures for solving the LD problem. This turns the solution of the latter more a matter of art than a technological or engineering activity. The paper describes a first-step definition of a formal procedure for solving the LD problem when simulation of ocmplex systems is to be performed. It is built around the so called CASCADE PRINCIPLE as the idea incorporated is based on the way cascade hydropower plants operate. The development is supported by the ERBCHRXCT930087 Project, (supplementary agreement ERBCIPDCT940023), spon-asored by the European Union.