Explanation should include the ways that modeling and simulation allows for
- ideas to be tested in a virtual environment that
- is safer (e.g., simulates within a range of conditions and extremes without physical risk)
- reveals ergonomic issues
- is easier to control (e.g., confidence in predictability based on known inputs and effect of variables)
- is easier to modify (e.g., variables of time, conditions, scale, materials, chemistry)
- improvements in cost-effectiveness over real-world testing
- identification of differences between model and prototype efficiency when creating a prototype
- errors in design/logic to emerge prior to implementation.
Process/Skill Questions:
- What are the various ways in which one’s project might benefit from modeling and simulation?
- Why is it important to create, test, and analyze models? What is the difference between a model and a prototype?
- Why do manufacturers and designers use computer simulations instead of creating a physical model or prototype?