ICT week 5: Modelling applications and types of processing

Another name for a computer simulation that mimics real-life situations is a 'computer model'. Simulation means to mimic (copy) real life systems in order to see the outcomes of different scenarios. There are some computer simulations that can be created for a range of applications such as: Tuck shop model, traffic light simulation, flight simulation.

1. Tuck shop model: This model is mostly being used in a shop or supermarket. This model usually used a spreadsheet. In this spreadsheet, you can automatically count your loss and profit, number sold, selling price, item name, etc. Here are some examples of a tuck shop model: 

2. Traffic light simulation: This simulation is usually being used for counting the number of vehicles passing the junction in all directions, the time of day for the vehicle count, how many vehicles build up at the junction at different times of the day, how vehicle movements change at weekends, bank holidays, etc., how long it takes a vehicle to clear the junction,how long it takes the slowest vehicle to pass through the junction
the movements made by vehicles (e.g. left turns, right turns, filtering, etc.), additional environmental factors, such as whether there are pedestrian crossings nearby.

From the list of data above, when you entered it to a computer, it will carry out a simulation that can be used for finding a solution.

3. Flight simulator: The simulator allows the pilot to practice the following flight skills:

• Use of cockpit controls
• Take off / Land
• Navigation (following correct path to a destination)
• Handling different conditions (high wind, storms, engine failure)

At first trainee pilots will make mistakes and maybe even crash the plane.  This doesn't matter because they can simply reset the simulation and try again. Nobody gets hurt.  When the trainee gains enough experience in the simulator, they will be allowed to fly a real plane. Advantages of using computer models/ simulations: Cheaper: Modelling a situation is often much cheaper than carrying out the task for real. For example, architects can make and solve design errors on simulated buildings rather than waiting until the real thing is constructed before realizing. Safer: Flight simulators mimic the skills needed to fly a plane. Notice pilots are likely to crash the plane while they are learning. This could be fatal if piloting a real aircraft. If a simulated plane is crashed, they just reload the simulation and try again. Saves time: Simulations can produce results faster than the real thing. For example, global warming models can predict the temperature of the earth in 50 years time without actually having to wait that long. Greater range of simulations: Simulations can be programmed to mimic a wide range of extreme situations. For example, pilots can be exposed to storms, volcanic ash clouds, high winds etc. In real life these conditions cannot be guaranteed. Disadvantages of using computer models/ simulations: Accuracy: Modelling a situation can never perfectly mimic real life. There will always be some difference between the model and reality. Initial expense: Simulators require sophisticated hardware and software. For example, high powered processors and lots of RAM. The simulation software (program) can also be expensive.   Programmer error: If the simulation's programmer has made errors whilst creating the program, the simulation outcomes will be more inaccurate.