Monash University

Abstract

I would like to express a sincere appreciation to my supervisor, Mr. Ken Harris, for his trust and support on this project. I would like to thank Dr. Ting Kai Ming, who allowed me to extend the project, and he gave me advice and encouragement along the way. Special thanks go to my superior, Mr. Soh Chee Hiang, who sponsors me to present this work at the First International Conference on Optimization Methods and Software in December 2002. In addition, special thanks to my wife, Siew Foong, and my Dad and Mum, for their love and support throughout all these years. Most of all, I praise my LORD Jesus Christ, HIS everlasting Love give me the strength, every single day. ii PRELIMINARY PAGES PAG