Modular Unification as One of the Possible Directions of Innovations in the Automotive Industry

Abstract

The aim of this research is to find ways to reduce the cost of designing, manufacturing and maintenance of cars. The research was conducted at the level of automobile architecture. The architecture consists of modules. Unification is proposed to be made through choosing the equity and alignment of external parameters of the modules. The research of different automobile architectures showed the opportunity of applying of the module unification methods to reduce costs for designing, manufacturing and maintenance of vehicles. The way of such unification can be used for vehicles with internal combustion engines, hybrid engines and electric motors. Implementing the technology of modular unification can be performed on the basis of existing production systems and technologies. Therefore, introduction of this technology does not require large expenditures. Globalization and extensive collaboration in the world automotive industry requires a search for ways to improve the efficiency of these processes. Above all, the ratio of benefits from the vehicle usage to its cost would not decline. These problems can be solved through the use of modular unification. Meeting these challenges requires the collaboration in the community level of automotive manufacturers. First and foremost, this is a wide discussion of issues and making the decisions on organizational and legal arrangements.

F2012-G01-003