A logic-based visual environment for distributed simulation and design of complex systems over the Internet

This research concerns the development of a logic-based, scalable model for visualization and design of complex systems distributed over a heterogeneous network, such as the Internet. A graph-based, multimedia-capable environment for distributing knowledge bases and retrieving reusable components over the Internet, and for integration of distributed knowledge bases with multiple simultaneous distributed numeric simulations of components has been developed and implemented. The model builds upon earlier theory of heterogeneous associative logic programming, enhances the model for the distributed computing environment and has been implemented using CORBA to exploit heterogeneity, scalability and user transparent distributed object-based computing. Java has been used for an architecture independent graphical user interface and for remote accessibility via the World Wide Web. To design a complex system and its simulation, hierarchical graphs have been exploited. A complex system as a node and the shared parameters between two components as an edge. The model has been demonstrated in relation to a practical NASA sponsored engine simulation project.