Modelling, Simulation and Optimisation: Case Studies, Research Methods and Results

The provision of solutions for industry in terms of modelling and simulations, ultimately leading to optimisation of manufacturing, mining or other engineering processes, is usually the preserve of production and process engineers. However, the shortage of such professionals often force companies to engage foreign expertise, which is usually quite costly. These optimisations can actually be carried out by academics and students at much reduced costs but still achieving reasonable results for the companies to remain competitive. As part of the engineering academics’ secondments and student internships under the EEEP and HEP SSA projects, a wide variety of projects were carried out. This chapter focusses on these projects as case studies and how the results were used as viable alternatives to provide solutions for industry problems through the improvement of capacity utilisation, productivity and efficiency as a demonstration of the capabilities and impact of utilising affordable engineering academics’ expertise, thus bridging the gap between academia and industry.