Petri nets: An examination of a versatile modeling tool

The features of Petri nets that make them useful as models of large and complex systems-especially high-speed computers possessing a large number of interactive components, concurrency and synchronization problems-are outlined, as well as their limitations. The structure of a Petri net is explained, and the role of interpretation in modeling is discussed. Marked Petri nets and their features are examined. The historical development of Petri nets is briefly addressed.