2 research outputs found
A load-sharing architecture for high performance optimistic simulations on multi-core machines
In Parallel Discrete Event Simulation (PDES), the simulation model is partitioned into a set of distinct Logical Processes (LPs) which are allowed to concurrently execute simulation events. In this work we present an innovative approach to load-sharing on multi-core/multiprocessor machines, targeted at the optimistic PDES paradigm, where LPs are speculatively allowed to process simulation events with no preventive verification of causal consistency, and actual consistency violations (if any) are recovered via rollback techniques. In our approach, each simulation kernel instance, in charge of hosting and executing a specific set of LPs, runs a set of worker threads, which can be dynamically activated/deactivated on the basis of a distributed algorithm. The latter relies in turn on an analytical model that provides indications on how to reassign processor/core usage across the kernels in order to handle the simulation workload as efficiently as possible. We also present a real implementation of our load-sharing architecture within the ROme OpTimistic Simulator (ROOT-Sim), namely an open-source C-based simulation platform implemented according to the PDES paradigm and the optimistic synchronization approach. Experimental results for an assessment of the validity of our proposal are presented as well
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Distributed Simulation: State-of-the-Art and Potential for Operational Research
In Operational Research conventional simulation practices typically focus on the conceptualization, development and use of a single model simulated on a single computer by a single analyst. Since the late 1970s the field of Distributed Simulation has led research into how to speed up simulation and how to compose large-scale simulations consisting of many reusable models running using distributed computers. There have been significant advances in the theories and technologies underpinning Distributed Simulation and there have been major successes in defence, computer systems design and smart urban environments. However, from an Operational Research perspective, Distributed Simulation has had little impact on mainstream research and practice. To argue the potential benefits of Distributed Simulation for Operational Research, this article gives an overview of Distributed Simulation approaches and technologies as well as discussing the state-of-the-art of Distributed Simulation applications. It will investigate the potential advantages of Distributed Simulation for Operational Research and present a possible sustainable future, based on experiences from e-Science, that will help Operational Research meet future challenges such as those emerging from Big Data Analytics, Cyber-physical systems, Industry 4.0, Digital Twins and Smart environments