Modular and Modularization – WJ Zhangwww.engr.usask.ca\classes\me\886

- Structure

- Architecture (a generic perspective of the structure)

- Module concept

- Modular architecture

Module and ModularWhy should they be together as a group?

Why should they be together as a group?

- Function

- Process (manufacturing, recycling, etc.)

- Physic vicinity

Three aspects or reasons that components (A, B, etc.) should be gathered:

The above process is called modularization – starting with a group of components and deciding groups

Constraints imposed on modularization

- Cost

- Manufacturing culture

- User and society culture

New equipment for manufacturing, R&D on new technology, etc.

Manufacturing firms may need to make changes to a new module; high power systems are more difficult to be modularized

Users are willing to accept new modular products, their enthusiasms

Decision on modularization is a complex task, which has to consider:

1. Cost

2. Technology

3. User

In this lecture, we do not focus on how to make such a decision and how to modularize a product or system

Focus on

Interface between modules and what impacts of various interfaces to degree of modularization

Interfaces

Module 1 interfaces with module 2

Degree of modularization:

1. Exchangeability2. Extendibility3. Replacement ability4. Configurability5. Resilience

Six types of interfaces – implication of architecture

1. Component swapping2. Component sharing3. Fabricate to fit (cut to fit)4. Slot5. Bus6. Sectional

Remark 1: Some literature does not include “slot” interface as a means to achieve modular architecture. However, my opinion, it is yes – i.e., it is a way to make a modular product. Whether it is Yes or Not depends on however the reference product which is totally not modular, integral product. Examples of integral products are seen in the next slide.

Examples of integral products

Flexure hinge Rigid element

Examples of integral products

More generalization

Examples

Base component is the major one to add value to this product

Examples

It is not the base component which adds value but the pictures added on add values

ExamplesCut-to-fit

Summary:

1. Modular design lies in design of the system architecture2. System architecture represents the types of

components and types of their connections3. A module is an independent unit; elements inside the

module have very high strength of connection but elements outside the module have connections that are distinct with the six types

4. Design of a modular product is to determine modules and their interfaces. There are only six types of interfaces for modular products

Summary (continued)

5. Following the general architecture of any matter, the six types of interfaces can be called atomic interfaces. Molecular interfaces are compositions of atomic interfaces.

A complete modular product may include a mixture of interfaces