ABSTRACT
Computational models and simulations are a broad and continuously expanding set of basic and advanced tools for simulation, evaluation, optimization, development, and decision-making in a variety of processes, industries, and activities. The knowledge base and techniques developed using these tools have often been further developed and implemented as the basis for real-time recognition, alarms, decision-making, and optimization through the application of artificial intelligence tools and techniques.
For aseptic processing and packaging, these tools are invaluable in making operational, tactical, and strategic decisions, especially in development and implementation of novel and emerging technologies and optimization and problem-solving in analyses and modifications of existing and established technologies and installations.
This chapter presents five examples of modeling and simulation applications in aseptic processing: (1) conventional tube in tube cooling, (2) continuous flow microwave heating: first generation, (3) continuous flow microwave heating: second generation, (4) continuous flow heating of products containing particles, and (5) using Excel as a simple modeling tool for process evaluation. These examples represent a window into the new capabilities and their potential to bring positive changes to commercial reality in aseptic. Currently pending and future developments will further build upon this potential to enable the implementation of real-time optimization and decision-making in aseptic processing and packaging, where sophisticated models and simulations will be performed as building blocks of artificial intelligence applications.
