Modular product structure determination requires continuous evaluation of the processes involved. Modularization is an appropriate method for product structuring. It takes into account the requirements from product life phases, such as development, production and after-sales. Assembly, as an essential part of production for the company, requires easily mountable products. Short lead-times and flexible processes are some other main requirements. The methodical procedure presented in this paper proposes a single diagram to represent the product structure and its resulting assembly sequence in an integrative manner. The tool developed performs structuring on the product and demonstrates the impact on the assembly process. The use of key figures is proposed for the evaluation. Data required for the calculation of these key figures is extracted from the diagram. The procedure is applied to the development of a model aircraft interior. The methodical approach presented supports product structuring for the specific requirements of assembly in the context of a holistic method for Product Life Phase Modularization. The approach focuses on closing the gap between the determination and evaluation of structuring measures. Consequently, efficient optimisation of products is achieved. The essential element of the approach is the integration of the product structure and the relating assembly sequence in one diagram. The determination of modules by working with the diagram is supported by the utilisation of specific heuristics. The time related assembly effort and its impacts on modifications are promptly shown due to the integration of an assembly time evaluation method. Assembly key figures are calculated with the help of information extracted from the diagram. The procedure was applied to the cabin of civil aircrafts as an example.
Product and process evaluation in the context of modularization for assembly
2011
11 Seiten, 8 Bilder, 2 Tabellen, 18 Quellen
Conference paper
English