Selection of modularization methods in product development: systematic review

Abstract

The strategy of product modularization is seen as a means to provide several benefits for companies. The objective of this paper is to identify in the literature the methods for developing modularization in products and to assess the applicability of and tools used by these methods, aiming at favoring the method that is the most suitable for each company. To achieve these objectives, a systematic review was performed according to the repeatability and importance described in the papers. Six different methods were identified for product modularization. This paper presents an analysis of the methods in relation to the module formation steps (decomposition, integration and evaluation) and provides an analysis related to classification parameters regarding the field of each method (variety, generation and life cycle). Finally, this study offers guidelines for companies, places application environments into context, and relates the knowledge necessary for applying those methods.

Keywords
Module; Conceptual design; Product development; Product design and development; Product design methodology