Definition
A Simuland is the real-world system of interest that is being simulated. it is the object, process, or phenomenon that the modeler seeks to represent and study.
Why It Matters
Understanding the ‘Simuland’ is critical for avoiding ‘model blindness’; it forces the modeler to clearly define the boundaries of the real-world system they are representing, ensuring that the simulation results are actually applicable to the real problem.
Core Concepts
- Inclusion Boundaries: A simuland includes not only the specific object of interest (e.g., an aircraft) but also the external aspects of the real world that significantly affect it (e.g., weather phenomena).
- Existence: Simulands can be existing systems, systems yet to be engineered, or purely hypothetical/notional systems (e.g., a non-existent weapons system).
- Referent: The body of knowledge (both formal engineering data and informal expertise) that modelers have about the simuland. The model is technically a representation of the referent.