A systematic methodology for the modularization of manufacturing systems during early design

A methodology is proposed to provide a guided process for modularization of manufacturing system components within the broader design process. The application focus is on manufacturing systems, including flow processes. Component clusters are formed by simultaneously considering physical-functional...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:	Flexible services and manufacturing journal Vol. 31; no. 4; pp. 945 - 988
Main Authors:	Rossi, Federico, Arfelli, Sabrina, Hu, S. Jack, Tolio, Tullio Antonio Maria, Freiheit, Theodor
Format:	Journal Article
Language:	English
Published:	New York Springer US 01-12-2019
Subjects:	Engineering Machines Manufacturing Operations Management Operations Research/Decision Theory Processes Modularization Design process Decomposition Flow processes Clustering Manufacturing systems
Online Access:	Get full text
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Summary:	A methodology is proposed to provide a guided process for modularization of manufacturing system components within the broader design process. The application focus is on manufacturing systems, including flow processes. Component clusters are formed by simultaneously considering physical-functional and strategic drivers that are fundamental to a more holistic partitioning of the system. The clustering algorithm now includes the ability to compel component unification or separation. A broad review of modularization methods was conducted to improve upon the state-of-the-art. Current methodologies can be difficult to use, are disjoint in their goals, lack objectivity, and do not produce externally repeatable solutions. The proposed methodology aims to improve upon these limitations by providing a step-by-step framework and integrating strategic and technical perspectives when clustering. The methodology is structured to guide the user toward a deeper understanding of the system, whether or not one is an expert, whereby the designer can focus more on the technical and strategic issues that should inform the modularization. A realistic case study for the modularization of a transportable fast pyrolysis plant was performed to evaluate the meaningfulness of the methodology’s results. The methodology clustered components into modules consistent with the information provided to the model, reflecting what would be expected from a deep understanding of the system.
ISSN:	1936-6582 1936-6590
DOI:	10.1007/s10696-019-09338-7