Toward Validation of Computer Simulation Models in Operational Test and Evaluation.
Abstract
Validation of complex computer simulations is considered in the context of the operational test and evaluation of the air launched cruise missile. Published literature on validation is reviewed. Validation is described as a problem-dependent process. The goal of that process is an acceptable level of confidence that the actual and simulated data agree closely enough for an inference about the simulation to be a valid inference about the actual system. The cost of accepting a given level of confidence must be balanced against the cost of obtaining a higher level. Experimental design is seen as the key to obtaining the maximum amount of information from a limited number of test runs and is discussed. The following approach to validity is suggested. Use a screening design to identify the few, most-important variables in the simulation. Use a more complete design to specify parameter/level combinations for simulated and actual data comparison. Finally, explicitly incorporate decision analysis in judging the validity of the model based on that comparison and the use that will be made of the simulation results. A fractional factorial design is used to screen out the important factors from the clutter and multipath sub-model in TAC ZINGER. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA083516
Entities
People
- James M. Arnett
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology