Abstract
Modularity arises from the division of a product into independent components. This independence allows a firm to standardize components and to create product variety. Product modularity is frequently stated as a goal of good design practice, yet has not been as carefully studied as some other current design practices such as design-for-assembly. As firms strive to rationalize their product lines and to provide ever increasing variety at lower cost, modularity is becoming a focus of attention. The goal of this paper is to define modularity, to explore some of the benefits and costs of modularity, and to propose a set of research questions. The paper is the result of preliminary research and is more a starting point than a set of refined conclusions.
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Ulrich, K. (1994). Fundamentals of Product Modularity. In: Dasu, S., Eastman, C. (eds) Management of Design. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-1390-8_12
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-1390-8_12
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