Engineering approach for modular design based on network of constrains and relationships

Regarding to the most current, which emphasizes particularly on the macro-layout rules and strategies for module scheme of specific phase and ignores supporting technologies for rationality analyzing and evolvement mechanism of modular scheme, a systematic modular design approach based on network model was proposed. Firstly, frameworks of technique and process were given with microcosm-grain supporting from the point of decomposition and optimization. Secondly, method for product family modeling based on network of relationships and constrains was advanced. The techniques for decomposition and projection of relationships were discussed according to the multi-view network model. Then, the way how to schedule independent modular design processes and the mechanism for conflict resolution were discussed, which help normalize the collaboration process, anchor the irrational relationship and optimize the modular scheme based on robust analysis. Finally, a case study was proposed to illustrate the application of the proposed approach, which proved the effectiveness of this approach.