Axioms for Model Fidelity Evaluation

TL;DR

This paper establishes seven fundamental axioms to rigorously evaluate model fidelity in digital engineering, aiming to clarify and standardize how simulation accuracy relative to reality is assessed.

Contribution

It introduces a formal axiomatic framework for model fidelity evaluation, addressing ambiguity in existing definitions and guiding future research and practical assessments.

Findings

Axioms are applicable to ground vehicle models

Framework clarifies evaluation criteria for fidelity

Provides a basis for future fidelity assessment methods

Abstract

Digital engineering has transformed the design and development process. However, the utility of digital engineering is fundamentally dependent on the assumption that a simulation provides information consistent with reality. This relationship is described as model fidelity. Despite the widespread use of the term, existing definitions of model fidelity often lack formal rigor in practical application, which leaves ambiguity in how this similarity should be evaluated. This paper presents seven fundamental axioms to aid the development of future fidelity evaluation frameworks. An example of a ground vehicle model is used under an existing fidelity evaluation framework to observe the applicability of these axioms. In addition, these axioms are used as a reference point for considering future opportunities in future work related to model fidelity.