A Simulation-Based Decision Support Method For Modular Product Architecture Alternatives

With a constantly increasing market competition leading to high degrees of product individualization and customization, developing product architectures, which still offer competitive advantages is crucial to success. For the concept of modularization supplying one solution to this issue, there are many modularization approaches available. As these all lead to different modular product architecture alternatives when being applied, the decision of which alternative to finally implement becomes increasingly difficult with more and more complex product architectures. With this contribution, we propose a simulation-based approach using model-based systems engineering as a consistent root data system for product configuration systems in order to address both customer- and company perspectives for analysing the architecture alternatives’ performances. Considering the multi-dimensional environment, a hyperspace algorithm for expressing individual architectures as geometric representations is used. Applying the simulation method to a medical stent as exemplary product, the implementation, results and capabilities of such a simulation is displayed.