A modular framework for evaluation of electrical machine production costs

A framework structure for solving multiple option production economic models is described, showing the possibilities in defining independent process modules according to a defined set of rules. The modules are then scanned and inserted into appropriate locations in the solver framework based on naming scheme and linking information, allowing both re-use of knowledge as well as rapid development and deployment of models for new production. The methodology is applied to the production of an electric machine, showing the ability to assess options with regard to for example technical infeasibilities such as the combination of incompatible production method selections, splitting and joining process flows and maintaining a continuous solution space. The structured framework approach also allows extraction of data from any point in the production flow, for any option or nominal batch size.