An HLA-based automated approach for the interoperable simulation of collaborative business processes

As collaborative simulations gain prominence, there is a pressing need for methodologies that seamlessly integrate interoperability while safeguarding intellectual property. This paper presents a novel approach rooted in Model-Driven Architecture and combined with the High-Level Architecture standard. This approach expedites the simulation process by automating the generation of Federation Object Model files and federate codes. Distinctly, we produce two federates: one exclusively in Java and another integrating Java with the Discrete Event System Specification, addressing diverse simulation paradigms. Utilizing the Unified Modeling Language and the Business Process Model and Notation standards, we devise a systematic procedure for modeling business operations while maintaining confidentiality. While our automation framework is robust, certain intricacies of federate behavior necessitate manual adjustments to ensure secure data transmission and protection of proprietary knowledge. The efficacy of our approach, striking a balance between interoperability and confidentiality in High-Level Architecture-based simulations, is demonstrated through a comprehensive experiment.