Role of Simulation in Rapid Prototyping for Concept Development
Joseph F. King, DOUGLAS E. BARTON · Naval Engineers Journal · 1991
ABSTRACT A valuable technique during concept development is rapid prototyping of software for key design components. This approach is particularly useful when the optimum de sign approach is not readily apparent or several known alternatives need to be rapidly evaluated. A problem inherent in rapid prototyping is the lack of a “target system” with which to interface. Some alternatives are to develop test driver libraries, integrate the prototype with an existing working simulator, or build one for the specific problem. This paper presents a unique approach to concept development using rapid prototyping for concept development and scenario‐based simulation for concept verification. The rapid prototyping environment, derived from artificial intelligence technology, is based on a blackboard architecture. The rapid prototype simulation capability is provided through an object‐oriented modeling environment. It is shown how both simulation and blackboard technologies are used collectively to rapidly gain insight into a tenacious problem. A specific example will be discussed where this approach was used to evolve the logic of a mission controller for an autonomous underwater vehicle.