Modular Product Research Articles

On Distance and Strong Metric Dimension of the Modular Product

On Distance and Strong Metric Dimension of the Modular Product

An Evolutionary Modular Product Development Under Circular Economy Approach

The incorporation of new technologies and materials, as well as the rapid evolution of products, makes it necessary to guide the product design and development process from bio-inspired perspectives that promote a circular economy. Among the proposals based on a bio-inspired solution is the framework called the Genomic Model of Eco-innovation and Eco-design, which integrates the Cradle-to-Cradle paradigm, material and substance flow analysis, along with all aspects present in the life cycle analysis of products. In this work, innovation is carried out through the integration of genetic algorithms as a methodological tool for optimizing the modular product design in the definition of the genotype within the aforementioned framework. Through a systematic approach, it analyzes how the modular reconfiguration of products, based on circular design principles and genetic optimization, can contribute to a significant reduction in resource use and waste generation. The proposed methodology is applied to a practical case based on the redesign of a small household appliance, demonstrating its potential to facilitate the implementation of circular economy strategies in the early stages of the product design and development process for studying product modularity, with the aims of improving its design and reducing its impact.

Optimal Design of a Modular Production System for Renewable Methanol to Mitigate Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Coal-Fired Power Plants

Optimal Design of a Modular Production System for Renewable Methanol to Mitigate Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Coal-Fired Power Plants

Upcycling expanded polyethylene waste for novel composite materials: physico-mechanical, hygrothermal and life cycle assessment

Recycling plastic waste is a major challenge today, but it also offers an opportunity to create sustainable building products and promote a circular economy in construction. The aim of this article is to evaluate a new lightweight plaster composite incorporating expanded polyethylene (EPE) packaging waste for lightweight steel frame (LSF) partition walls. Mechanical and hygrothermal characterization and environmental life cycle assessment are carried out on these composites with a replacement of up to 30% of the original raw material by volume. The results show that the alternative plaster has 21.7% grater flexural strength in plates than required by standards. In addition, the reduced water vapour permeability of these materials makes them more resistant to damage in high humidity environments. On the other hand, the lightened composites have 43.9% lower thermal conductivity than the reference material, increasing the thermal resistance of LSF partition walls by 20.3%. Finally, cradle-to-gate global warming potential is reduced by up to 30% compared with the 100% virgin EPE. These results are encouraging and present a significant opportunity to advance the development of sustainable novel prefabricated modular building products.

HANNES: A Modular Neurointerventional Training Model

Abstract This work introduces version 2.0 of the Hamburg ANatomical NEurointerventional Simulator (HANNES): a novel modular neurointerventional simulator designed to provide a realistic platform for simulating various neurovascular pathologies and their endovascular therapies. Collaboratively developed by physicians and engineers, the neurointerventional simulator is designed with a modular product architecture combining standardized and variant modules to represent different training scenarios. The additively manufactured patient-based and patient-specific blood vessel tree consists of up to 13 individual components, including standardized features and interfaces for ease of connection. Patient-specific vessel models derived from medical imaging data allow customization and complexity adjustment. HANNES supports diverse neurointerventional training scenarios, including various modalities of aneurysm embolization, internal carotid artery (ICA)-stenosis, and thrombotic vessel occlusions, which can be treated through a transradial or transfemoral approach. The use and benefits of the model were evaluated with a group of trainees, who provided positive feedback, confirming the model's practicality and effectiveness in enhancing neurointerventional technical skills. In conclusion, HANNES represents a significant advancement in neurointerventional training, addressing the limitations of traditional training methods by simulating diverse disease patterns, enhancing medical staff's skills, and facilitating product testing.

Two dimensions of product modularity and innovation: the case of R&D teams

Abstract This study investigates the relationship between product modularity and innovation in 101 research and development (R&D) teams. The key contribution and the departure from prior empirical work consists in bringing into relation multidimensional operationalizations of these two concepts. Product modularity is composed of standardization and reconfigurability and innovation of novelty and efficiency. The literature provides arguments for both negative and positive relationships between standardization and the two types of innovation, while positive relationships are argued for product reconfigurability. The empirical findings corroborate most of the theorizing, although negative relationships are found for standardization. This study contributes to the literature by unpacking the understanding of the concept of product modularity in R&D organizations since the multidimensional approach resolves some of the ambiguity from previous studies. The modularity literature long called for studies to empirically investigate product modularity in more than one dimension implying a number of theoretical implications discussed here.

Integration of Fog Computing in a Distributed Manufacturing Execution System Under the RAMI 4.0 Framework

Technological progress has driven the integration of new technologies in the field of industrial automation, but a structured framework is often lacking to efficiently guide the transition from traditional industries. This article presents the implementation of advanced technologies on FESTO’s (MPS-500) modular production system, using the reference architectural model for Industry 4.0 (RAMI 4.0) as a guide for scaling. It highlights the importance of the synergy between information technologies (ITs), which enables the development of a multi-level processing system. This system performs concurrent tasks, thus managing execution and manufacturing through an MES based on requests from the cloud. On the other hand, at a lower level, a fog computing system was integrated, which relieves the processing load by distributing processes locally. In addition, matrix mapping was performed to map the integrated technologies within the context of a reference model, allowing a clear alignment between the different levels of the system. The results show a significant reduction in waiting times between batches and operations, which directly improves productivity and offers greater flexibility, that is crucial for SMEs during their growth and scaling process towards Industry 4.0.

Optimizing Wide Band Gap Cu(In,Ga)Se2 Solar Cell Performance: Investigating the Impact of "Cliff" and "Spike" Heterostructures.

In recent years, the efficiency of high-efficiency Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells has been significantly improved, particularly for narrow-gap types. One of the key reasons for the enhancement of narrow-gap device performance is the formation of the "Spike" structure at the CdS/CIGS heterojunction interface. Wide-gap CIGS solar cells excel in modular production but lag behind in efficiency compared to narrow-gap cells. Some studies suggest that the "Cliff" structure at the heterojunction of wide-gap CIGS solar cells may be one of the factors contributing to this decreased efficiency. This paper utilizes the SCAPS software, grounded in the theories of semiconductor physics and photovoltaic effects, to conduct an in-depth analysis of the impact of "Cliff" and "Spike" heterojunction structures on the performance of wide band gap CIGS solar cells through numerical simulation methods. The aim is to verify whether the "Spike" structure is also advantageous for enhancing wide-gap CIGS device performance. The simulation results show that the "Spike" structure is beneficial for reducing interfacial recombination, thereby enhancing the VOC of wide-gap cells. However, an electronic transport barrier may form at the heterojunction interface, resulting in a decrease in JSC and FF, which subsequently reduces device efficiency. The optimal heterojunction structure should exhibit a reduced "Cliff" degree, which can facilitate the reduction of interfacial recombination while simultaneously preventing the formation of an electronic barrier, ultimately enhancing both VOC and device performance.

Feasibility Test of A Testing Station Trainer Situated in Virtual Reality Integrates Computational Thinking Concepts

This research focuses on integrating the Computational Thinking (CT) concept of automation system in vocational education to address the high costs and scarcity of educational resources in practical learning. The rapid industrial expansion of automation, particularly in Modular Production Systems (MPS), necessitates that students grasp both the components' functionalities and operational principles. Another point that needs to be considered is the integrated CT concept in the learning process. The CT for 21st-century skills, this research aims to facilitate knowledge absorption through systematic problem-solving strategies. To reduce cost and scarcity, this research developed an Interactive Virtual Reality Testing Station (IVRTS) employing a CT methodology to replicate MPS functions effectively in a Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) Laboratory setting. Developing an Interactive Virtual Reality Testing Station (IVRTS) with a CT approach to simulate the working process is expected to overcome this problem in the Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) Laboratory. The research procedure adopted from Lee Owens' ADDIE development procedure aims to create a CT-based IVRTS as an innovative educational tool. Experimental validation will compare the efficacy of CT-enhanced IVRTS against traditional methods among 36 students from higher schools. Based on the results of research on the IVRTS indicates its significant potential, receiving mainly "Good/Worth It" feedback. Despite the overall positive reception, users reported issues regarding its complex nature and the necessity for ongoing technical support. Refinements to make the system more intuitive and autonomous by streamlining the interface and clarifying functions are essential for broader user adoption.

European Green Deal: Substantiation of the Rational Configuration of the Bioenergy Production System from Organic Waste

A review of the current state of the theory and practice of bioenergy production from waste allowed us to identify the scientific and applied problem of substantiating the rational configuration of a modular anaerobic bioenergy system, taking into account the volume of organic waste generated in settlements. To solve this problem, this paper develops an approach and an algorithm for matching the configuration of a modular anaerobic bioenergy production system with the amount of organic waste generated in residential areas. Unlike the existing tools, this takes into account the peculiarities of residential areas, which is the basis for accurate forecasting of organic waste generation and, accordingly, determining the configuration of the bioenergy production system. In addition, for each of the scenarios, the anaerobic digestion process is modeled, which allows us to determine the functional indicators that underlie the determination of a rational configuration in terms of cost and environmental performance. Based on the use of the developed tools for the production conditions of the Golosko residential area, Lviv (Ukraine), possible scenarios for the installation of modular anaerobic bioenergy production systems are substantiated. It was found that the greatest annual benefits are obtained from the processing of mixed food and yard waste. The payback period of investments in modular anaerobic bioenergy production systems for given conditions of a residential area largely depends on their configuration and ranges from 3.3 to 8.4 years, which differ from each other by 2.5 times. This indicates that the developed toolkit is of practical value, as it allows the coordination of the rational configuration of modular anaerobic bioenergy production systems with real production conditions. In the future, it is recommended to use the proposed decision support system to model the use of biomass as an energy resource in residential areas, which ensures the determination of the rational configuration of a modular anaerobic bioenergy production system for given conditions.

Needing Neither Conveyer nor Cycle—Modular Production in Practice

Needing Neither Conveyer nor Cycle—Modular Production in Practice

Harnessing the power of module markets for effective product recovery strategies

AbstractThis paper investigates how product modularity affects a manufacturer's recovery strategy by constructing two trade‐in models: one with a module market and another without. Our results reveal that opening a module market is not always profitable for the manufacturer, except when the module production cost is extremely low. When opening it is less profitable, the manufacturer can boost profits by raising the module price, increasing salvage value, and reducing costs through remanufacturing. Regarding collection quantity, our findings reveal that a module market, particularly with high module costs and durability, increases trade‐in quantity, challenging the conventional expectations of market share erosion.

Modularity and new product performance: the role of new product development speed and task uncertainty

Similar to the advantages of product modularity to a firm’s overall performance, new product modularity could provide advantages to the new product development process and result in its success in the marketplace. Accordingly, this study investigates the effect of new product modularity on its financial and market-related performance (new product performance). To identify processes underlying this effect, NPD speed and task uncertainty have been considered as its mediator and moderator, respectively. In this vein, survey data from 190 Iranian manufacturing firms have been gathered and research hypotheses have been examined using structural equation modelling and bootstrapping approach. The results of this study reveal that new product modularity improves NPD speed and new product performance. Additionally, NPD speed is found to have a partial mediating role between new product modularity and performance. Finally, this study empirically shows that the positive effect of new product modularity on new product performance amplifies in tasks marked by heightened uncertainty. The findings of the current study highlight the determinant role of modular strategy and NPD speed in developing successful new products.

(Invited) Affordable Green Hydrogen from Alkaline Water Electrolysis: An Industrial Perspective

Electrolysers is a novel component in the energy system and is expected to play a key role in the transition to a fossil free energy system and supply Green Hydrogen to a number of small- and large-scale applications within a number of industries e.g. transportation, industry etc. with several hundreds of GW is projected to be installed towards 2030.Modularity and mass production are key factors for the large scale deployment of electrolysis as envisioned in Hydrogen Strategies across the World. However, a number of different design strategies and modularities can be chosen in order to achieve this.This talk focuses on fundamental aspects of alkaline electrolysis including industrial requirements for catalysts and diaphragms, how to develop an electrolyser product and the development of multi-MW alkaline electrolysers plants with factory assembled modules allowing rapid on-site installation in order to keep up with the pace needed to reach deployment targets.

What would happen in the United States if there were no cow milk-based preterm infant nutritional products: historical perspective and evaluation of nutrient-related challenges

Recent litigation has led to a situation where preterm cow milk-based infant nutritional products (PCMBPs) may soon have limited or no availability in the United States. Given their limited availability, similar products based only on human milk are unlikely to meet the needs of most preterm infants requiring such products, especially those born >1500 g or very preterm infants born at <1500 g after they reach 34–35 wk postmenstrual age. Alternative nutritional strategies, used before the introduction of specialized preterm products, would require modular nutrient additions to a formula designed for full-term infants and donor or maternal milk. The addition of modular products would require careful calibration to provide needed macro and micronutrients which would expose infants to risks of contamination, poor growth, and limited bioavailability of some of these modulars. Substantial risks of metabolic derangements, and ultimately, poor outcomes would occur. In the long-term greater availability and support for the use of human milk-based products is needed. However, policymakers cannot assume that PCMBPs will not be critically needed and should identify strategies for their continued marketplace availability.

Design of Rejection Subsystem for Abnormal Workpiece Condition Modular Production System at Distribution Station

Design of Rejection Subsystem for Abnormal Workpiece Condition Modular Production System at Distribution Station

Design and Optimizing Top Cover Feeding Unit Modular Production System and Pick &amp; Place Station

Design and Optimizing Top Cover Feeding Unit Modular Production System and Pick &amp; Place Station

Digital twin‐based virtual commissioning for evaluation and validation of a reconfigurable process line

AbstractThe benefits of advancements in information and communication technologies have proliferated in manufacturing applications as more industries are migrating towards industry 4.0 compliance. The industry 4.0 process lines should be dynamic and reconfigurable. Digital twin (DT), supported by real‐time data, is getting wide acceptance as a tool for monitoring and control of complex processes. Virtual commissioning (VC) has played a vital role in the software‐based validation of the control systems. A DT‐based VC methodology is proposed to evaluate and validate a reconfigured process line. The proposed new asset is commissioned virtually in the DT environment maintaining other stations and parameters synchronised. The proposed methodology is validated in a modular production system assembly line. A storage and retrieval station is virtually commissioned by the hardware in loop technique in the assembly line DT with a station time error of 1.3% between the VC model and the actual assembly line data. The case study demonstrates the feasibility of the proposed methodology in assessing the impacts due to reconfiguration of a process line. The findings offer significant support to decision makers in taking informed decisions and to reduce unforeseen interruptions resulting from the integration of a new asset with the existing process line.

DESIGN CONTROL SYSTEM OF MODULAR PRODUCTION SYSTEM DISTRIBUTION AND PICK AND PLACE STATION

The development of automation in the industry is accelerating rapidly. The presence of automation is a technology that is very helpful in increasing production. Automation cannot be separated from the existence of a control system to regulate or process an instruction or order. The Modular Production System is a station unit consisting of various types of stations that simulate production system designs on a small scale before being realized in real situations. The work process of the Modular Production System is controlled using a PLC. PLC needs to be programmed to manage the work process of the Modular Production System. The programming language commonly used in PLC programming is ladder diagrams. The existence of a control system on the Modular Production System using PLC will make the Modular Production System run automatically. It can communicate with other Modular Production Systems to become more efficient. Therefore this design discusses controlling the Modular Production System using a PLC with a ladder diagram. The distribution stations and pick and place stations are selected for the Modular Production System. With a control system on the Modular Production System distribution station and pick and place station, the Modular Production System can work automatically and communicate with each other between stations. The result of the design is an increase in the efficiency of the system cycle time and process accuracy.

Production Networks and Innovation in the Semi-periphery: The Transition to Electric Vehicles in South Korea and Spain

AbstractWhat determines the ability of firms based in New Advanced Economies to generate innovation in the transition to electric vehicles (EVs)? Under what conditions are they more likely to break with their established pattern as fast followers to create innovation that is new to the world? To address these questions, we introduce a meso-level framework focused on the organization of global production networks. The framework examines three aspects of such networks: the position of the firm within the network, the number of lead firms, and the links between lead firms and suppliers. We illustrate the explanatory power of our framework through the cases of South Korea and Spain, the two New Advanced Economies with the largest automotive sectors. We characterize Korea’s production network as a unipolar, captive structure and Spain’s as part of an EU-wide multipolar, modular production network. We argue that contrary to common perceptions, Korea’s structure delayed the transition to EV’s and strengthened Korea’s role as a fast follower. Meanwhile, Spain’s embeddedness in the EU production network offered significant opportunities for turnkey suppliers to generate novel innovation despite the absence of a domestic lead firm.