A generic framework for environmental modeling and simulation

Because of their complexity, natural systems are often studied using various modeling paradigms. This paper describes a generic framework for natural systems studies allowing the modeler to use all these paradigms in a unique environment. This framework is composed of a DEVS based modeling and simulation environment called JDEVS, and a models library called HMLib. The associated formal framework ensures that models are reusable and interoperable components with well-defined interfaces. Integration is performed using a Web based connector allowing a distributed work. The coupling between these two tools provides a powerful framework focusing on models interoperability and reusability.