A metamodel and a DEVS implementation for component based hierarchical simulation modeling

Component based hierarchical simulation is based on having pre-built, validated simulation model components that can be coupled to form a composed model that represents a system. The component based approach promises reuse of interoperable components and rapid development. Although component based simulation looks like a promising field and the theory originates more than 20 years ago, many studies do not seem to deliver on the promises, and many simulation projects face problems when reusing existing components in practice. In order to provide reusability and interoperability, it is useful to have generic model definitions that are independent from the implementation details. This means that we need to pay attention to conceptual modeling. The conceptual model is a key concept that forms a bridge between the modelers and the developers, but unfortunately there is no commonly accepted conceptual modeling technique for hierarchical simulation.