A computer simulation (or “sim”) is an attempt to model a real-life or hypothetical situation on a computer so that it can be studied to see how the system works. By changing variables in the simulation, predictions may be made about the behaviour of the system. It is a tool to virtually investigate the behaviour of the system under study. Simulation is an important feature in engineering systems or any system that involves many processes.
Virtual reality technologies such as Oculus Rift and HTC Vive offer unprecedented immersion which calls for higher fidelity simulations. Augmented Reality technologies such as Microsoft Hololens are expanding the time and place for computing use and thereby creating new opportunities for simulations to support human decision making and amplify human performance.