Wales’ Centres of Excellence programme helps companies benefit
from the best of industrially relevant expertise and facilities within
universities in Wales. As part of this programme, C J Controls
was encouraged to develop a long-term collaboration with the Power
Electronics Design Centre at the University of Wales Swansea. The
founder of this local small business, Clive Jones, is an honorary
lecturer within the department, and part of the Strategy Board for
the Centre. Collaborative projects have spanned many years and include
the design of power factor conversion front ends for the company’s
best selling drives modules and the use of advanced CAD techniques
available within the design centre. Most recently the Centre has carried
out device characterisation for the company. Benefits to the company
have included access to key research developments in this fast, dynamic
area, use of equipment and joint participation at major exhibitions
e.g. Power Electronics 2001. The programme also brings prestige to
a small company through its links to a world-class research Centre,
which is operating in a relevant area of technology.
