Implications of k-best modular product design solutions to global manufacturing

Abstract

The recent trends in modularization facilitate the automation of product design leveraging digital design repository in global manufacturing environment. This paper proposes a method to find k-best designs. We formulate the problem using integer programming to obtain the optimal solution, and use cutting planes to find the next best solution. k-best design solutions provide manufacturers or product designers with more holistic view on the feasible solution space than the sole optimal solution. The k-best solutions help suppliers assess the competitiveness of their modules. We show how k-best design solutions can be utilized in product design practices through a case study.