Simulation in Innovations

Modelling and simulation are usually regarded as support tools in innovative work. They allow fast and easy testing of innovations. The use of simulators also builds a good basis for understanding complex phenomena and their interactions. In addition, it also builds a good basis for innovative thinking. It is indeed quite important to understand what the simulators really do and what the limitations of the models are. As a consequence, access to source codes is the key to the innovative use of models and simulators. 

Many commercial programs are usually stuck in old thinking and well-established models, and then, the in-house-made simulators are quite often better innovative tools. Molecular modelling can be used, for example, in screening potential drug molecules or synthesis methods in order to reduce their number. 

Role of Modelling in Technology Transfer and Knowledge Management 

The importance of modelling and simulation for industrial use is generally promoted, in each factory, by the youngest engineers. The importance of computer-aided tools to the factory level is best understood when the application of modelling and simulation has a history. The importance of modelling and simulation is not understood so well in the sectors that do not using computer-aided tools. 

Technical universities have a key role in the education of engineers (so that they can work on modelling and simulation) as well as in research and development. In fact, the universities education role is absolutely fundamental for the future 

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