Computer Modelling (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE ICT): Revision Note

• Cheaper than having to build the real thing

• Easier to try out a range of different scenarios

• Safer, can simulate hazardous environments e.g. power station

• Faster, can speed up variables that would impact on results e.g. climate change

• Testing can be done before real-life construction begins

• A computer model will never be 100% accurate

• Results are only as good as the model designed and data entered

• Possibility of human error in the design could skew results

Personal finance

• Use of a spreadsheet to test 'what if' scenarios

• Using spreadsheet functionality to change values and see what impact is made e.g. the financial impact on a family if household income was to go down

Bridge and building design

• Architects will use 3D computer models of bridges and buildings so that a number of scenarios can be tested

• In bridge design:

  • How much traffic can the bridge take

  • The effects of natural vibrations

  • The effects of different weather conditions

  • What impact on structural integrity would an accident cause

• In building design:

  • The effects of different weather conditions

  • Simulating fire evacuation protocols

  • What impact on structural integrity would a fire cause

Flood water management

• Computer models allow risk assessments to be made of high risk flooding areas

• Using models and changing variables allows for the design of automated flood defence systems

• Variables would include:

  • different rivers and sea inlets

  • time of the day

  • previous flood behaviours

  • possible obstructions etc.

• An automated system allows for:

  • Real-time monitoring

  • Data collection

  • Faster response to changing conditions e.g. advance warning to people

Traffic management

• Computer models allow users to see the effect of traffic and accidents on major road networks

• The data collected can be used to optimise the traffic light times at different junctions

• Data collected could include:

  • Time of day

  • Number of vehicles passing the junction from all directions

  • Factors that effect the flow of traffic e.g. pedestrians crossing, accidents etc.

• After successful modelling has been completed, optimised systems can be built and installed

Weather forecasting

• Sensors are used collect data and sent to a central computer

• Data collected could include:

  • Air pressure

  • Wind speed

  • Air temperature

  • Humidity

• The computer model can then be used to predict weather patterns for the next few days

• Actual weather is compared to the modelled data to check for accuracy and identify any areas in the model to modify