Framework for Arcology Simulation and Analysis

This chapter reports on the development of a simulation framework for arcology simulation and analysis. Emphasis is placed on the specification of an urban model that will generate demand on a transit network, a system simulation engine, and a schedule optimization algorithm capable of directing the action. Development activities follow the systems engineering framework described in Figure 2.1; that is, use cases lead to scenarios, simplified models of required functionality, and the identification of (functional, performance, economic) requirements. Then, models of simulation system behavior and support for real-time optimization of behaviors (i.e., transit schedules) are specified.

A secondary purpose of this chapter is to introduce technical considerations and design goals of mass transit systems based that might be based upon this framework. Of course, the ensuing chapters will fill in specific details of the mass transit system model, types of transit scenarios, and details of the actual software implementation.