Modeling & Simulation

The RhinoCorps modeling and simulation capability is based on the Simajin® simulation. Simajin (sim-a'-jin) is a general purpose computer simulation that can be used for many different applications over a wide range of scope and fidelity, and is based on almost 30 years of proven experience and application. Simajin use is supported by another RhinoCorps developed product, Simanij. Simanij (si-man'-ij) is a software management tool for preparing data bases, quickly modifying data values, easily organizing simulation runs, and presenting results as each run finishes, along with the final tabulations. Simajin is an extremely powerful simulation tool that has the inherent capability to support the realistic analysis and assessment of any possible scenario to be presented now or into the future (the derivation of Simajin comes from simulation plus imagination, if you can imagine it, Simajin can simulate it). Simanij, a broad support tool, was developed to facilitate the ease of use of the Simajin simulation, controlling both input and output as well as managing simulation runs for increased productivity. Both tools are easily implemented and do not require specialized skills to do so. The capabilities of Simajin are summarized in the following:

• Developed for the 21st century to support modern computational systems and needs
• Rich heritage of development and extensive experience in the development and application of simulation software for the DoD and other government agencies
• 30+ years of experience reflected in the Simajin development by RhinoCorps Chief Scientist and principal developer (Peter Lattimore) - prior developed codes include Suppressor and SWEG
• Less than 70,000+ lines of code written in machine-portable C++
• Data dominated simulation (approximately 10% code and 90% data) versus traditional simulations (90% code and 10% data)
• Can begin simulation studies immediately with limited data then build data and scenario detail as simulation studies progress, can have multiple simultaneous levels of detail in same scenario
• Code provides "verbs" (move, sense, talk, affect, work/think) while data (the user) provides "nouns, adjectives, adverbs", and the user chooses the detail by defining the nouns (individuals, facilities, organizations), remainder of the database defines the limits on the nouns and verbs
• Event-stepped, asynchronous time-stepped (processes use their own natural time constants for "just in time" calculations, not "just in case"). Results in O(n.log|n|) scaling where n is related to the number of objects in the simulation and results in a significant reduction in run time with increased entities/event capabilities
• Runs on a PC, standalone or network capable; highly portable (Windows, Mac OS, Unix, Linux operating systems)
• Fast, user friendly (especially when combined with Simanij for input/output definition, control and managing runs)
• Capable of generating statistically significant results (chaotic, "outliers" are significant) up to ten's of thousands of simulation runs
• Flexible player structure allowing for multiple user-defined groups, players, clusters, figures, elements, systems, expendables, and attributes - e.g., allows for traditional DoD force-on-force (multiple groups) down to single person level of detail - individuals to countries
• Simulates/models cognitive processes, mental aspects of individual/group decision making based on [mis]information, perceptions - perceptions and reality are separated)
• Includes the ability to assess user defined tactics, techniques and procedures; concepts of operation
• Simulation duration can be seconds to decades, include transitions (peace-to-war-to-peace)
• Allows for the assessment and determination of impacts of new technologies, strategies, tactics, etc.
• No geographic limits - can model boundaries (rivers, mountains, cities, borders, etc.), infrastructure, environment (including weather), terrain (DTED), curved/flat earth
• Can network with other simulations as well as incorporate other phenomenology models and effects from other physics-based and/or empirical models
• Automated batch runs generate statistical data for any point of interest and/or in a standalone mode with and without human-in-the-loop interactions (and/or observations)
• Able to incorporate (via data and models) any system and capabilities of interest (e.g., sensors, vehicles, communication systems, system-of-systems concepts)

Simajin simulation capabilities are essentially limitless - only limited by imagination and ability to generate and develop relevant data (predecessor codes have been verified, validated and accredited). The Simajin simulation is extremely flexible due to architecture - can easily change data (not code) to incorporate new study parameters, update system performance, change strategy/tactics, etc. Use of Simajin leads to Reduced Cost, Reduced Simulation / Study Time, Reduced Program Risk - knowledge and insights into important issues easily obtained with statistically significant results (decision making tool); and, significantly reduced cost as part of overall program costs regardless of size - minimal upfront costs for tool that can be used throughout development and acquisition efforts with minimal change.