Reconfigurable modularization and customer engagement: Looking for a new PLM in an age of diversification and personalization

Abstract

It is pointed out in this paper that current PLM is built up on traditional hardware development style of fixed functions with fixed morphology. But changes of environments and situations are so frequent and extensive so more attention must be paid to adaptability. Reconfigurable Modulation (RM) is expected to be one of the most versatile and useful approach. It not only enhances adaptability, but it also enables customer engagement in design and manufacturing. Thus, although traditional hardware development is focused on one time product value, RM directs processes to generate values, which grow with time. Further, RM will bring forth win-win relations between experts and non-experts, between low and high technologies, and between advanced and developing countries.