Life cycle modularity metrics for product design

In this paper, a method for the analysis and redesign of hierarchical product configurations is shown, including previously developed measures of modularity. The method is applied to a partial automotive interior consisting of a center console from an instrument panel. The configuration goes through three redesigns, and the details are analyzed using the modularity metrics. The redesigns are guided by analysis at different levels of the product hierarchy (e.g., the assembly and subassembly levels). In fact, the analysis at different levels enables better-informed redesigns. The method uses only configuration design information and is therefore useful at the early stages of design. The results show that the measures reflect our intuitive understanding of the concept of product modularity, yet also indicate that the metrics are open to further refinement.