From Hybrid Simulation to Hybrid Systems Modelling

Abstract

Hybrid Simulation (HS) is the combined application of simulation approaches like SD, DES and ABS in the model implementation stage of a simulation study. Its objective is to better represent the system under scrutiny. Hybrid Systems Modelling (HSM), on the other hand, is the combined application of simulation with methods and techniques from disciplines such as Applied Computing, Computer Science, Engineering and the wider OR. HSM can be applied to multiple stages of a simulation study. In this paper, we present a classification of HS and extend it to include HSM approaches which use simulation with other OR techniques. The paper contributes to the debate on what constitutes HS and offers a unifying conceptual representation for mixing simulation approaches with HSM methods and techniques.