What Is The Modularization Information Technology Essay

What Is The Modularization Information locomotive engineering EssayModularization is currently in focus on as a message for increasing competitiveness of industrial companies. This is achieved by bridging the advantages of standardization and rationalization with customization and flexibility. in that respect argon three translations of the terms which needs to be clarified mental faculty, standardity, and modularization.The definition of the term module has changed over fourth dimension from being defined by the physical presence into being defined by structure and functionality.Modularity is a combination of musical ar be adriftments attri stilles and functionality of the module itself. in that location ar seven mayor modularity concepts contribution sharing modularity, comp unmatchednt swapping modularity, bus modularity, sectional modularity, fabricate to fit modularity, intermix modularity and stack modularity.Modularization has evolved in an industrial context. Th ere are three prefatorial drivers behind the desire for modularity modularization in output, modularization in ingatheringion and modularization in inter-firm scheme. Modularization in origination represents creation of variety, modularization in intersectionion represents the utilization of convertibleities and modularization in inter-firm system represents a reduction of complexities (Andrea Prencipe, 2003)Modularization does non mean that in that respect is less host seduce unavoidable for manufacturing atruck. It simply means that in that location is reorganization in regard to who is doing what in the jimmyand bring chain, with much sub-assembly work make by the suppliers. There is trend fromcomplete assembly d whizz by OEM to important sub-assemblies to be outsourced. This mightnot be irreversible, as assembly firms try to find the most beneficial approach for them that go forth be accepted by suppliers. A big subprogram of the added value comes from the ass emblyoperations. (Zima, 2005)Modularization typesThere are three types of concepts in modularization. These concepts areModularization in crossroads (architecture)Modularization in convergenceionModularization in inter-firm systemModularization in returnsModularization in intersection points foc affairs upon harvest-home architecture and the essential interrelationship amid product function and structure. Achieving this one to one balance between the products subsystems and their functions allows modules to be juted with a laid-back degree of autonomy and reduces the interdependence with other modules in essence, this refers to introducing and achieving modularity in product design. Others concur with the issue of interdependence, as they describe modularity in design as something which intentionally spend a pennys a high degree of independence or let loose coupling between component designs. find 1.1 .(Robert Trimble, 2008)The left diagram is a schematic representation of the so-called integral product. Since the elements making up the product function (the left triangle) are interrelated with those making up the product structure (the right triangle) in a complex manner, the designer of Subsystem S1 has to restoration the following factors into accountfunctional interdependence with the other subsystems (such as s1f1s2, and s1f2s2) morphologic interdependence with the other subsystems (physical interference, for prototype, s1s2)Interdependence with the design of the entire system (consistency with the design of the whole system, s1S1S) 4) interdependence between the sub-functions (such as f1_f2, and F1_F2).Figure 1 1.Modularization in product decreases such interdependence between the concerned elements. It allows one-to-one correspondence between the subsystems and their functions, and enables, for example, the designer of Subsystem S1 to focus solely on Sub-function F1 and S (the structure of the product as a whole). The subsystem becomes a module with a self-contained function, which cigarette be intentional more(prenominal)(prenominal) autonomously. Rebrinying interdependence after modularization hindquarters further be reduced if the interfaces between the elements are simplified and similar as much as attainable. (Takeishi, 2001)Modularization in returnModularization in issue describes the manufacturing system structure where, as a result of amodular product design, the product is produced from a series of modules each assembled on a sub-line before transfer to the product assembly line. A non-modular manufacturing system would be as a result of the product structure not containing either structurally cohesive great modules. (Robert Trimble, 2008).Modularization fanny be illustrated with a similar diagram sh receive in figure It is comprised of the convergence anatomical structure Hierarchy (right triangle) and the overlap Process Hierarchy (left). In order to simplify the explanation, among the whole manufacturing processes, the focus here only on assembly work in the Product Process Hierarchy.The former hierarchy is built up in chase of functional independence of each subsystem (i.e., the degree to which a function of the product is achieved by a hit subsystem), while the latter is make up for structural cohesiveness (i.e., the degree to which a collection of divorces can be physically handled as one unit). The latter hierarchy is intend to contribute to structurally cohesive modules which are easy to manage genuine handling and quality control.Figure 1 1.The left diagram represents non-modular return processes. Without any structurally cohesive large modules, the product is to be assembled from 8 small modules (s1 to s8) at the same hierarchical level on one long main assembly line. On the contrary, in the right diagram, there are two structurally-cohesive modules S1 and S2 on the right, and two subassembly lines to build them and one on the spur of the moment main line for finished products on the left (remember the famous watchmaker story in Simon 1969). It can be said that the Product Structure Hierarchy with cohesive modules is translated into the Product Process Hierarchy with one main line and two subassembly lines. (Takeishi, 2001)Modularization in inter-firm system (outsourcing subsystems in larger units to out-of-door suppliers)Modularization in Inter-firm Systems- describes the situation where large modules are assembled by suppliers on their own assembly lines and are delivered and assembled into finished products on the main line of the auto manufacturer This facet of modularity is essentially the outsourcing of the assembly of the module to the supply base. (Robert Trimble, 2008)Modularization in inter-firm system, which has cadaverous increasing attention in the European auto industry, entails outsourcing subsystems in large units (cohesive modules) to suppliers. The left diagram is a schematic representation of outturn with a h igher in-house ratio, in which small modules (s1 s8) are delivered by outside suppliers. On the contrary, the right represents production based on a highly modular supplier system, in which large modules are assembled by outside suppliers on their subassembly lines, and are delivered and assembled into finished products on the main line of the manufacturer.Figure 1 1.Overall, the three facets of modularization and their interrelations can be illustrated within the same framework of quadruple hierarchies as shown in the three pairs of diagrams. Product engineers, process engineers, and buying managers must make decisions about the product and process hierarchies and the inter-firm boundaries, while securing close coordination between them. It is obvious that these three facets of modularization must not be mixed up. At the same time, it is also clear that these decisions are interrelated with each other. They are the processes of making decisions about interrelated hierarchies of product functions, product structure, and production processes. There is always a possibility of some inconsistency or infringe between the decisions. In a sense, the most critical challenge in modularization is how to avoid or overcome such inconsistency and conflict by means of coordination. (Takeishi, 2001)Modularity typesThere are antithetic types of modularity apply in industry. An overview of the most habitual types can be found in Figure 1.1 (Erikstad, 2009).Figure 1.1 A more detailed division into contrasting modularity typesComponent-sharing modularity there are single modules used in different products. The same module can be used in a completely different product family.Component-swapping modularity occurs when there are more alternative primary components can be mated with the same modular components creating different product variants belong to the same product family.Bus modularity is used when a module with two or more interfaces can be matched with any soma of the components selected from a list of prefatory components. The interfaces accept any combination of the basic components. Bus modularity allows variations in the pith and the locations of the basic components in a product. Component-swapping and component-sharingmodularity allows only variation in the types of basic components.Sectional modularity is used when there is any number and combination possible by the configuration. Each module can establish one, two or more interfaces. There are only a few limitations. pay to Fit Modularity wholeness or more standard components are used with one or more infinitely variable additional components. summercater is usually associated with physical attributes that can be modified. An example for this kind of modularity is a cable assembly. The connectors of the cable are standard and the length of the cable is variable. plug modularity is the method where a collection of modules can be connected to create a unit with a value in some di mension that is the sum of the individual modules. The modules must be of the same type but it can be either a combination of identical modules or a combination of different sizes of a module.Mix modularity combines different components into something refreshing, for example paint or concrete.What are the pros and cons of modularization?AdvantagesReduce time and labor hours required for assembly processIntroducing modularization makes the assembly faster and less complicated, by pose complete preassembled modules the production is more efficient with the result of reducing time and labor.Reduction of Labor CostBecause the supplier orders and assembles the parts into a module this time is saved at the one production. Also ordering a module is less labor-intensive compared to edifice standards ordering.Completion of Just-In-Time SystemOne Effects of modularization is for example the decreasing numbers of parts with the effect that JIT is more manageableCost Reduction EffectBy incr easing the tally of module suppliers the risk of stationary production decreases. If one supplier is not able to deliver on time he gets displaced by the nigh one .Easy upgrading Once modularization is passed, one module can be upgraded easy. This way the system can be always up to involvement .Changing a module has no effects to the entire design.Dividing a product intocomponents and interfaces allows changes without affecting the entiredesign.Modularization Breaks pop problems into smaller and artlessr partsBy definition of modularity, the concept enables designers to break the problem into smaller and simpler parts overlap ModulesDesignee teams can share or use again components from other designs, culture time canbe decreased.More effective blueprint other benefit of modularity is that it enables engineers to focus more directly on their own module, often leading to a more effective design dissolving agent.DisadvantagesDesigning modules is more difficultDesigning for m odularity ismore difficult and takes more effortthan designing aconstruction standard system.Determining how to separate a system into modules and how these modules will interconnect is the root of the problem.Tunnel VisionOnce the designis complete, productdevelopment is simplified by modularity Thepossibility exists that designers will not think tolook at an other methods or solutions.Such cut into vision may besmirch the overall quality ofthe design.Performance approximately always achievement can be improved over a modular design, because the elimination of interfaces reduces weight and size.moreover, it is sometimes difficult tointegrate modules, designed by different teams, and tomake them worktogether optimally.Communication parley between teams is the potential for redundancyMaintenanceOften when one part of a module needs to be flipd the only way is to replace the hole module. It is also command that it is not possible to order full one particular part only the hole mo dule.The benefits of modular supply for the assembler are cost reduction, increase of the low-scaleassembly efficiency, and minimization of enthronization requirements in untried places (Humphreyand Salerno, 2001), as outsourcing allows the automotive manufacturer to allocate part of theinvestment to the suppliers who will be located near the assembly topical anestheticise (Lung, 2001, Lewisand Wight, 2000). From their side, the suppliers can decrease the financial involvement in thenew production location of the client by associating themselves with local partners. In thiscase they stand to ensure that the international standards of competitiveness (productivity,quality, logistics etc) will be reached (Lung, 2001). VOLVO.pdfSectors which apply modularizationFigure 1 1.Around 1990s up till now the industries have essential from designing and developing one-of-a-kind products units, towards more interchangeable and modular products. With these standardized methods a large num ber different product can be product to satisfy the customers (Erikstad, 2009).Throughout the industries, umteen a(prenominal) companies in differed sectors have espouse some kind of modularisation in their organisation. Each sector or party that adopted modularization is unique in their solutions how to implement this strategy. The sectors on the frontiers of modularisation are the automotive, machinelike engineering, particular(a) machinery/Plant engineering, these sectors modularisation is widely used. There are many more sectors where modularisation is practise (Berger, 2012). In the diverse industries there are legion(predicate) examples how modularisation is implement to the benefits of companies.The in automotive basic platforms are used in many different models or brands. This is the same in electronics were components are extensive utilize both across different brands and across different product types. software package companies split up their complex software sys tems to able to work latitude and reduce the complexity of the program (Jacobsen, 2003). For building ocean going lading ship it is almost impossible to build a ship without modularisation because of the size and complexity (Gockowski, 2005)The benefits reported are reduced cost, shorter development cycles and the ability to hold in a broad product range while standardizing and reducing the number of different components and configuration elements. (Erikstad, 2009)Companies which apply modularization prosperinglyIn this chapter the most successful companies which apply modularization will be described.The companies are change integrity in different kinds of sectors ( see Figure 1 1.)(Berger, 2012) Automotive Mechanical engineering Special machinery/ plant engineering Electronics Medical engineering Railways Heating / climate mechanisation Power tools OtherAutomotiveScaniaScania is a very well cognize company which use the modularization strategy since 1930s. Scanias unique modu lar product range is one of its most important success factors. Since each product of Scania is made entirely on the basis of the customers commercial enterprise and the real-world situation, it ensures the best possible performance and quality. Meanwhile, the modular product system lowers Scanias costs, since by using a peculiar(a) number of components the company can give each customer an optimised product. This business model is one important reason why Scania has been makeable every year for six decades and often describes its relationship with customers as a win-win situation. (Fagrenius, 2012 ) motorcar manufacturingA lot of car manufacturers produce by a modularisation strategy. With this modularization different parts are produced and can be fit together on different types of cars. Some examples of car brands which change the same parts on different types are Volkswagen, Seat and Audi. (MILTENBURG, 2003)Mechanical engineeringShipbuildingMarintekThe Norse Marine Technolog y Research Institute (MARINTEK) performs research and development for companies in the field of marine technology. This companies develops ships on a modularization strategy. The whole ship is divided in modules which are separately fabricated. (Erikstad, 2009)DamenDamen shipyards is the biggest company in the Netherlands which designs and manufacture on base of modularisation. (Damen, 2013)Ship equipmentThe equipment on a ship and in the engine room is designed and manufactures in modules. These modules are manufactured and assembled in the workshop, and are fit together on a ship ( as a block). This is a successful way to produce because of many technological, divine services and economical aspects. Some companies which are manufacturing on this way are Marine service Noord and Impas, and Alfa laval. (Noord, 2013) (Laval, 2013)Product manufacturingThere are a lot of production companies which use the modularization strategy. They have their focus on reducing delivery time and pro duction costs. Some well cognize production companies in the Netherlands are Phillips, VDL, Burgers trailers, Hytrans go over systems and Vanderlande. (TNO, 2008)Special machinery/ plant engineering randomness Power plant ground on our extensive experience in building queen plants, Siemens has developed innovative combined cycle reference causality plants, known as Siemens Combined Cycle (SCC) turnkey plants. Suited for applications from degree Celsius MW to over 850 MW per unit, these plants help you to meet the challenges of a dynamic market and are designed to optimize planning, implementation times and lower life-cycle costs. (AG, 2008)Nuclear power plantsFor currently operating U.S. nuclear plants, the average construction period was 9,3 years the longest was 23,5 years. In Japan, close attention to modularization and construction sequencing has reduced construction times for the ABWR reactor design. (Lee Presley, 2009)FluorFluor has pioneered the economic advantages and commercialization of modular construction. Fluors proven performance showcases large-scale modular construction across a variety of Client industries. From brutal arctic winters working the Trans-Alaskan Pipeline, or inshore oil and gas platforms in Trinidad Tobago, or state-of-the-art biotechnology facilities, to the new San Francisco Oakland Bay Bridge, Fluor has successfully utilized modular construction to destination Client challenges. (Fluor, 2013)HitachiHitachi has been developing and perfecting modularization technology to facilitate domestic nuclear power plant construction since the betimes 1980s, and it has made great strides in rationalization. Modularization is the lofty plant construction technique for reduced costs, higher quality, improved asylum and shorter construction times. We believe that modularization technology is one of the best solutions for the current plant construction environment. (Maru, 2002)Oil and gas industryLinde BOC Process Plants LLCModular ized construction has many positive aspects to consider. The modules contain the equipment, piping, heat tracing, electrical instrumentation systems, specialized coatings, firing protection, ladders, and platforms. Modules can be horizontal, vertical, single level, or multi-level depending on the plot space, equipment, and required piping configuration. The optimumsplit of modular field construction efforts is persistent for each individual project based upon such factors as local labour costs, transportation limitations and schedule. (Laar, 2008)Electronics and automationPhilipsPhilips is one of the largest television manufacturers in the world. approximate competition in the television market is leading to smaller profit margins, price erosion, shorter time to market, and a battle for shelf space. To remain competitive, we must minimize the bill of substantive and the cost of system development. Minimizing the bill of material puts constraint on the resources of a television, such as memory, bandwidth, CPU cycles, and footprint. We minimize the cost of system development by modularization.AirbusThe Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) concept, which replaces numerous separate processors and line replaceable units (LRU) with fewer, more centralized processing units, is hopeful significant weight reduction and maintenance savings in the new generation of commercial airliners (Ramsey, 2007).Medical engineeringPhillipsAlready in the early days of CAN, Philips Medical Systems noticed the advantages of CAN and decided to use this vane protocol as communication network for interconnecting various components such as collimators, generators, and patient tables in their X-ray systems. To achieve a modular and devote approach, a group within Philips Medical Systems, managed by Tom Suters, developed the first higher layer protocol for CAN, the CAN Message specification (CMS), which was presented to the public in 1992.Heating / climateThe integrated modular modify s olutions combine multiple components designed to fit your specific requirements and specifications. This integrated solution not only reduces the total number of suppliers, but it also drives down your overall costs (laval, 2013)Power toolsBlack DeckerThe patented MATRIX modular tool system offers performance and value in a simple and practical way for power tool users to grow their toolbox at their own pace. With this system, users can access some of the industrys most popular types of tools which were traditionally limited to professionals while offering savings up to 42% versus purchasing bare tools separately. (Decker, 2013)Control of modularizationJoery stuk btp btf etcKey elementsKey elements modularizationInternal key elementsProduct design etcExternal key elementsSuppliers etcBoundary conditions