Instrument suite cost optimisation in a science megaproject

Abstract

This article presents a cost optimisation study of neutron scattering instrumentation at the European Spallation Source (ESS) in Lund, Sweden. This is done by focusing on the main cost drivers for almost half of the instrument hardware—optics and shielding —and trading detailed cost functions against beam transmission functions in a multi-dimensional, yet simple, parameter space. A cost saving of almost 30% is identified. The method is demonstrated in a worked example on a mature instrument design, and there are no reductions in performance. The proposed solution is shown to correspond to a Nash equilibrium of simultaneous shielding and optics strategies, versus the baseline which is trapped by working through sequential strategies. Finally, this cost analysis is bench-marked against, and found to be in agreement with, the costs of operational facilities of a similar class.