C++

I like the 3D graphics of flexism, but I not programmer. How much c++ need know??

Milokovitz,

Knowing how to write an if() statement and a for() loop can take you a long way in Flexsim, both of which are covered in the Basic Training Course along with a core set of Flexsim commands. It is helpful to have previous programming experience, however it is not necessary.

I trust others will post their viewpoints.

Kris

Milokovitz,

I am not a programmer and did not know C++, because I studied business and economics. I try to solve everything with Flexscript because I like to prevent the need of compile. In my eyes it makes modeling faster even it C++ might sometimes a more elegant way of modeling.

I did not really face limits doing it this way. If I can not solve something with Flexscript (which rarely happens and the Flexsript is growing with every new release) I just search in the InterNet, ask the Flexsim community forum or contact the technical support. Normally than I have some code which works and I just use it and did not care if this is C++ or whatever. Who cares as long the code does what he is suppose to do?

I agree with Kris, that it is good to now what is if(), for() and also maybe switch() and while() does and how to use it. It is helpful to have previous programming understanding but it is more learning by doing in my eyes.
I think it is more important to have an understanding for logic and structured thinking and the ability first to solve your problem logically. After having the logical solution of your problem (maybe written down in simple words) the “programming” is just a translation to the model (objects, ports, pick lists, etc.) and the code. I think the first step is the more difficult one.

Good success.
tom the (A)tom

P.S.: Sometimes I wonder what I could be able to do in Flexsim, if I would also know C++ …

Thank you for your replies Kris and Tom. This community site is very nice and helping.

Milokovitz,

I would agree with Tom and Kris that an individual's knowledge in C++ is far down on the list of importance when it comes to having success with Flexsim. Personally I couldn't write a "Hello World" program in C++ but I've had great success with Flexsim over the past 5+ years.

As to Tom's comments about what would he be able to do with Flexsim if he knew C++. I've personally (with help from Eamonn and AJ) created Flexsim models that:
1. Use a Freeware Dll to do boolean operations on 3D shapes
2. Use a Commercial Dll to communicate with 3 GPS units in real time
3. Use a Commercial Dll to communicate with a DAQ board in real time
4. Using 3 & 4 above control the movement of a hydraulic excavator.

This is not to toot my own horn because I don't find anything that I have done outside the reach of any other motivated person. I mention these so that others can see how powerful Flexsim can be in allowing someone who knows very little to accomplish a lot.

So, in the end C++ isn't necessary but if you do know it there are no limits as to what you can do.

Good Luck,
Brandon

Brandon

Using GPS DLL - so would it be possible to track 30 vehicles that move around a 30Km area - as if in a control room situation?

Then have Flexsim running away to determine ways to reschedule the vehicles if one is late?

Kenny

Kenny,

The GPS DLL was for communicating directly with a GPS unit. What you would be looking for is more of a way to have the truck's informtion updated to a database and then update Flexsim from the data base.

Brandon