Cost Efficiency
The cost efficiency of power electronic devices and systems is a critical consideration in today’s technologically driven landscape. While initial investment costs are often at the forefront of decision-making processes, the maintenance costs associated with these devices should not be underestimated. In many cases, the long-term expenses related to upkeep and repairs can significantly impact the overall cost-effectiveness of a power electronic system. Unfortunately, the maintenance costs of some applications are frequently overlooked during the initial planning stages, leading to unexpected financial burdens as systems age. Moreover, the distribution of risks between partners in the value chain for maintenance is a complex aspect that requires careful consideration. Ensuring a fair and transparent distribution of responsibilities among stakeholders is essential for fostering collaboration and preventing disputes that could hinder the overall cost efficiency of power electronic devices and systems throughout their lifecycle. Balancing initial costs with long-term maintenance considerations and establishing clear risk-sharing mechanisms are key factors in optimizing the economic viability of power electronic technologies.
Our R&D Activities:
Offshore wind farm active maintenance strategy.
FLAGCHIP will develop models for the optimization of predictive maintenance planning considering component condition and variables that affect the plant, risk of failure, weather and wind forecasts.
Improved cost efficiency of power devices and semiconductor fabrication processes by:
(a) Using TCAD process simulations to investigate the impact of process variations which influence significantly the fabrication cost (e.g. implantation species, thermal anneal time and temperature) on the electrical performance of devices.
(b) using TCAD process simulations to study more dense active cells and terminations design to increase current density per chip.
(c) Assessing the figures of merit by providing TCAD simulation results where various designs or materials will be used, and the impact of UWBG devices on the cost of the system.
Economic risk assessment.
By establishing clear system arrangements for maintenance cost and risk sharing.
