A Conceptual Framework for Efficient New Product Introductions

Abstract

Increasing global competition, decreasing lifecycles and outsourcing trends put new demands on product design and assembly system development. These demands call for highly flexible assembly systems, consisting of standardised, process-oriented assembly modules, offering robust processes and high equipment reusability. To generate such a system, a new concept for cross-functional development of products and the assembly system is being developed. The concept is based on distinct connection between product design and the assembly system. To achieve this, the Assembly Module Platform (AMP) is being developed. The AMP generates the Module Process Description (MPD), which defines the process executed by the modules. The design of the product can now be guided by the MPD, creating a process-oriented product design