SAMICS Validation. SAMICS Support Study: Phase III. Final Report, Jet Propulsion Laboratory

摘要

The purpose of SAMICS is to provide a consistent basis for estimating solar cell array costs and comparing production technology costs. The user of SAMICS provides detailed process information for calculating direct costs. To these are added indirect and overhead expenses. Although thorough documentation of direct processes requires a significant initial effort, the process gives SAMICS its primary strength. A complete accounting of direct process resource requirements establishes an audit trail that will help to monitor the realism of assumptions before production and to later identify variations from forecasted operating parameters after production begins. The purpose for this review were the following: (a) to test the computational validity of the computer model by comparison with preliminary hand calculations based on conventional cost estimating techniques; (b) to review and improve the accuracy of the cost relationships being used by the model; and (c) to provide an independent verification to users of the model's value in decision making for allocation of research and development funds and for investment in manufacturing capacity. The conclusion is that the SAMICS model is a flexible, accurate, and useful tool for managerial decision making. The comparison of model results with calculations shows close correlation. This report provides the basis for conclusions. It also contains recommendations for increasing the usefulness of SAMICS. (ERA citation 05:015152)