The Modular Modeling System
Presentation and Workshop by Dr. George Leavesley
USGS, Denver
Sponsored by the NCGIA and the UCIME project team

NCGIA Brown Bag Seminar
11:30 am - 1:00 pm, January 25, 2001
ICESS Conference Room, 6824 Ellison Hall, UCSB

Abstract

A Modular Approach to the Issues of Design, Scale, and Parameter Estimation in Distributed Hydrological and Ecosystem Models George H. Leavesley, USGS, Denver, CO USA A large number of distributed hydrological and ecosystem models are currently available and are composed of a variety of conceptualizations of the associated processes they simulate. Assessment of the capabilities of these distributed models requires the evaluation of their individual process conceptualizations and the identification of which conceptualizations are most appropriate for various combinations of criteria such as problem objectives, data constraints, and spatial and temporal scales of application. With this knowledge "optimal" models for specific sets of criteria can be created and new research needs can be defined. The evaluation of process conceptualizations and their organization into distributed models is being facilitated by the development of modeling frameworks using the concept of modularity. A modular framework provides a flexible structure in which models can be divided into their component process parts as modules. The exchange of modules within a model enables the comparison of alternative process conceptualizations. A variety of GIS and analytical tools within the framework support the use of spatial databases and the investigation of issues such as objective parameter estimation methodologies, error and sensitivity analysis, and the effects of spatial and temporal scale on the simulation and coupling of various process components. To be most effective, the modular concept requires participation from the hydrological and ecosystem modeling communities in the design and acceptance of a modular coding structure, the willingness to develop and share module code, and the willingness to share data for the development of distributed data sets in a wide range of climatic and physiographic regions of the world. In exchange for participation, modelers can share resources and be part of a larger multidisciplinary research effort where individual modules can be developed by those with the relevant process expertise and be provided in a common toolbox with a wide range of analytical and support tools. Implementation of a common modular concept is not a trivial task. However, it would bring the resources of a larger community to bear on the problems of distributed modeling, provide a framework in which to objectively compare alternative modeling approaches, and provide a means of sharing the latest modeling advances. The U.S. Geological Survey Modular Modeling System is presented as one modular approach being developed to address the issues of model design, scale, and parameter estimation in distributed modeling.

Workshop on the Modular Modeling System (MMS)
8:30 am - 4:00 pm, January 26, 2001
Descartes Laboratory, 3620 Ellison Hall, UCSB

This will be a hands on opportunity to receive an introduction and to work with the Modular Modeling System (MMS). Topics to be covered are the following:

  1. Introduction to the Modular Modeling System and modular concepts: System structure, Create MMS workspace, Build a model, Run a model and explore system features.
  2. The GIS Weasel: Basin delineation and characterization, Basin parameter estimation.
  3. Module and model building: Modules and models, Simple ET model, PRMS watershed model, Tightly coupled models and Coupling PRMS, NWSRFS, and TOPMODEL components.
  4. Introduction to the Object User Interface (OUI): Loosely coupled models, Decision support systems and Data retrieval and management.
  5. Model deployment using the Internet: Example model application using SUN Web Start.

** All are welcome but Space is limited. You will need to sign up in advance with Tim Robinson
by phone (805-893-2883) or E-Mail.

 

References/Links for the Modular Modeling System (MMS):

http://wwwbrr.cr.usgs.gov/projects/SW_precip_runoff/mms/
http://wwwbrr.cr.usgs.gov/weasel/
http://wwwbrr.cr.usgs.gov/warsmp/

 

Contact the project Web Master.