A modeling language generator for a discrete event simulation language in MATLAB

Abstract

A discrete-event simulation language was implemented in MATLAB. The approach is similar to the process/command modeling paradigm utilized in GPSS and other languages that followed. The language is a MATLAB Script File (m-file) and can be part of a larger analysis package as a sub-function of an optimization/simulation system. The modeler builds the simulation through support functions provided in this system but must insert them in the proper locations of the MATLAB master function. To develop a proper model, it is necessary to understand the internal simulation structure using the switch/cases statement and where various aspects of the simulation structure are located. To simplify this process, a model generator has been developed which parses a model text file and produces the required MATLAB master simulation function. The model generator also reduces the magnitude of understanding of the implementation specifics of the MATLAB simulation language and makes proper model development easier.