From product architecture to assembly sequence: a method to develop conceptual Design for Assembly based on interface analysis

Abstract

The development of modular products is diffused in modern production due to the achievable flexibility and customization. Modular products can maximize the efficiency of manufacturing processes if they are structured to be easily configurable during the main assembly phases. In this context the present work proposes an approach to define the product modular architecture aimed to improve assemblability. The goal of this method is to achieve the product assembly sequence from the conceptual design phase. In particular it optimizes the conceptual design for assembly approach by taking into account the role of different flows in the modular product structure and the types of interface between modules. A case study allows the approach results to be shown and highlights the advantages and the drawbacks. An important improvement in the reduction of assembly time is shown in the context of household appliance manufacturing.