Modular design: Difference between revisions

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{{Short description|Design approach}}

{{about|a design approach|factory built structures moved in modules|Modular building}}

[[File:Framework Laptop - the Design Museum.jpg|thumb|A [[laptop]] that is designed to be modular]]

'''Modular design''', or [[modularity]] in design, is a design principle that subdivides a system into smaller parts called ''modules'' (such as [[modular process skid]]sskids), which can be independently created, modified, replaced, or exchanged with other modules or between different systems.

==Overview==

{{No footnotes|section|date=December 2019}}

A modular design can be characterized by functional partitioning into discrete scalable and reusable modules, rigorous use of well-defined modular interfaces, and making use of industry standards for interfaces. In this context modularity is at the component level, and has a single dimension, component slottability. A modular system with this limited modularity is generally known as a platform system that uses modular components. Examples are [[car platform]]s or the [[USB]] port in [[computer engineering]] platforms.

In design theory this is distinct from a modular system which has higher dimensional modularity and degrees of freedom. A modular system design has no distinct lifetime and exhibits flexibility in at least three dimensions. In this respect modular systems are very rare in markets. Mero architectural systems are the closest example to a modular system in terms of hard products in markets. Weapons platforms, especially in aerospace, tend to be modular systems, wherein the airframe is designed to be upgraded multiple times during its lifetime, without the purchase of a completely new system. Modularity is best defined by the dimensions effected or the degrees of freedom in form, cost, or operation.

Modularity offers benefits such as reduction in cost (customization can be limited to a portion of the system, rather than needing an overhaul of the entire system), interoperability, shorter learning time, flexibility in design, non-generationally constrained augmentation or updating (adding new solution by merely plugging in a new module), and exclusion. Modularity in platform systems, offer benefits in returning margins to scale, reduced product development cost, reduced O&M costs, and time to market. Platform systems have enabled the wide use of system design in markets and the ability for product companies to separate the rate of the product cycle from the R&D paths. The biggest drawback with modular systems is the designer or engineer. Most designers are poorly trained in [[systems analysis]] and most engineers are poorly trained in design. The design complexity of a modular system is significantly higher than a platform system and requires experts in design and product strategy during the conception phase of system development. That phase must anticipate the directions and levels of flexibility necessary in the system to deliver the modular benefits. Modular systems could be viewed as more complete or holistic design whereas platforms systems are more reductionist, limiting modularity to components. Complete or holistic modular design requires a much higher level of design skill and sophistication than the more common platform system.

[[Car]]s, [[computers]], [[Modular process skid|process systems]], [[solar panel]]s, [[wind turbine]]s, [[elevator]]s, [[furniture]], [[loom]]s, [[railroad signal]]ing systems, [[telephone exchanges]], [[pipe organ]]s, [[Modular synthesizer|synthesizers]], [[electric power distribution]] systems and modular buildings are examples of platform systems using various levels of component modularity. For example, one cannot assemble a solar cube from extant solar components or easily replace the engine on a truck or rearrange a modular housing unit into a different configuration after a few years, as would be the case in a modular system. These key characteristics make modular furniture incredibly versatile and adaptable.<ref>{{Cite web |last=S |first=Rob |date=May 6, 2023 |title=What Is Modular Furniture: A Comprehensive Guide |url=https://sitbacklounge.com/what-is-modular-furniture/ |url-status=live |access-date=July 25, 2023 |website=SitBackLounge}}</ref> The only extant examples of modular systems in today's market are some software systems that have shifted away from versioning into a completely networked paradigm.

Modular design inherently combines the [[mass production]] advantages of [[standardization]] with those of [[Personalization|customization]]. The degree of modularity, dimensionally, determines the degree of customization possible. For example, solar panel systems have 2-dimensional modularity which allows adjustment of an array in the x and y dimensions. Further dimensions of modularity would be introduced by making the panel itself and its auxiliary systems modular. Dimensions in modular systems are defined as the effected [[parameter]] such as shape or cost or lifecycle. Mero systems have 4-dimensional modularity, x, y, z, and structural load capacity. As can be seen in any modern convention space, the space frame's extra two dimensions of modularity allows far greater flexibility in form and function than solar's 2-d modularity. If modularity is properly defined and conceived in the design strategy, modular systems can create significant competitive advantage in markets. A true modular system does not need to rely on product cycles to adapt its functionality to the current market state. Properly designed modular systems also introduce the economic advantage of not carrying dead capacity, increasing the capacity utilization rate and its effect on cost and pricing flexibility.

==In vehiclesApplications ==

=== In vehicles ===

{{See also|Electric vehicle|Wikispeed| open-source vehicle}}

[[File:2010-04-07 Unimog at Arthur Ibbetts machinery dealership.jpg|thumb|The modular design of the [[Unimog]] offers attachment capabilities for various different [[List of agricultural machinery|implements]].]]

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Aspects of modular design can be seen in cars or other [[vehicles]] to the extent of there being certain parts to the car that can be added or removed without altering the rest of the car.

A simple example of modular design in cars is the fact that, while many cars come as a basic model, paying extra will allow for "snap in" upgrades such as a more powerful engine, [[vehicle audio]], [[car seat#Climate control and ventilation | ventilated seats]], or seasonal tires; these do not require any change to other units of the car such as the [[chassis]], steering, [[electric motor]] or battery systems.

=== In machines and architecture ===

{{main article|Modular building}}

Modular design can be seen in certain buildings. Modular buildings (and also modular homes) generally consist of universal parts (or modules) that are manufactured in a [[factory]] and then shipped to a build site where they are assembled into a variety of arrangements.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://architecture.about.com/cs/buildyourhouse/g/modular.htm|title=Modular home definition|access-date=2010-08-19|archive-date=2011-08-08|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110808021728/http://architecture.about.com/cs/buildyourhouse/g/modular.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref>

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For example, an [[office]] building can be built using modular parts such as walls, frames, doors, ceilings, and windows. The interior can then be partitioned (or divided) with more walls and furnished with desks, computers, and whatever else is needed for a functioning workspace. If the office needs to be expanded or redivided to accommodate employees, modular components such as wall panels can be added or relocated to make the necessary changes without altering the whole building. Later, this same office can be broken down and rearranged to form a [[retail]] space, [[conference hall]] or another type of building, using the same modular components that originally formed the office building. The new building can then be refurnished with whatever items are needed to carry out its desired functions.

Other types of modular buildings that are offered from a company like Allied Modular include a [[guardhouse]], machine enclosure, [[press box]], [[conference room]], two-story building, [[clean room]] and many more applications.<ref>[httphttps://www.alliedmodular.com/products Allied Modular Products] Allied Modular. Retrieved March 27, 2012</ref>

Many misconceptions are held regarding modular buildings.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://icon-construction.com/2014/08/top-5-myths-modular-construction/|title=modular building|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20140917142328/http://icon-construction.com/2014/08/top-5-myths-modular-construction/|archive-date=2014-09-17}}</ref> In reality modular construction is a viable method of construction for quick turnaround and fast growing companies. Industries that would benefit from this include healthcare, commercial, retail, military, and multi-family/student housing.

=== In computer hardware ===

==In Trade Show Exhibit and Retail Display Design==

[[File:Xi3 modular computer 01.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Modular computer design]]

Modular design in computer hardware is the same as in other things (e.g. cars, refrigerators, and furniture). The idea is to build computers with easily replaceable parts that use standardized [[interface (computing)|interfaces]]. This technique allows a user to upgrade certain aspects of the computer easily without having to buy another computer altogether.

A computer is one of the best examples of modular design. Typical [[computer module]]s include a [[computer case|computer chassis]], [[Power supply unit (computer)|power supply units]], [[Central processing unit|processors]], [[mainboard]]s, [[graphics card]]s, [[hard drive]]s, and [[optical drive]]s. All of these parts should be easily [[interchangeable parts|interchangeable]] as long as the user uses parts that support the same standard interface. Similar to the computer's modularity, other tools have been developed to leverage modular design, such as [[LittleBits|littleBits Electronics]], which snap together with interoperable modules to create circuits.<ref name="PSFK 5.15">{{cite web|title=How One Entrepreneur Is Bringing Fringe Maker Knowledge Mainstream|url=http://www.psfk.com/2014/08/one-entrepreneur-bringing-fringe-maker-knowledge-mainstream.html|website=PSFK|publisher=PSFK|access-date=27 May 2015|ref=PSFK|date=2014-08-26}}</ref>

The concept of Modular design has become popular with trade show exhibits and retail promotion displays too. These kind of promotional displays involve creative custom designs but need a temporary structure that can be reusable. Thus many companies are adapting to the Modular way of exhibit design. In this they can use pre engineered modular systems that act as building blocks to creative a custom design. These can then be reconfigured to another layout and reused for a future show. This enables the user to reduce cost of manufacturing and labor (for set up and transport) and is a more sustainable way of creating experiential set ups.

===In televisionscomputer software===

{{See also | Modular programming}}

In 1963 [[Motorola]] introduced the first rectangular color picture tube, and in 1967 introduced the modular [[Quasar (brand)|Quasar]] brand. In 1964 it opened its first research and development branch outside of the United States, in Israel under the management of Moses Basin. In 1974 [[Motorola]] sold its television business to the Japan-based Matsushita, the parent company of [[Panasonic]].

Modular design is a foundational concept in modern programming languages, emphasizing the organization of software into distinct, reusable components known as modules. This approach allows developers to build programs more efficiently by reusing existing modules as needed, reducing redundancy and promoting cleaner, more maintainable code. The principle of reusability is central to modular design, enabling developers to avoid repeating themselves and to leverage proven solutions across multiple projects.

==In computer hardware==

[[File:Xi3 modular computer 01.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Modular computer design]]

Modules also contribute to better abstraction and encapsulation. By hiding complex functionality behind simple interfaces, modules make software easier to understand and use. This is particularly beneficial for newer developers, who can interact with high-level features without needing to grasp the underlying implementation. Although encapsulation is a core idea in object-oriented programming, modular design applies similar principles across various paradigms, helping prevent misuse and reducing the likelihood of critical errors.

Modular design in computer hardware is the same as in other things (e.g. cars, refrigerators, and furniture). The idea is to build computers with easily replaceable parts that use standardized [[interface (computing)|interfaces]]. This technique allows a user to upgrade certain aspects of the computer easily without having to buy another computer altogether.

Separating core language features from more advanced capabilities is another advantage of modular design. This separation keeps the base language lightweight and accessible, allowing developers to learn and adopt new features incrementally. It also enhances security by minimizing the attack surface—only the necessary modules are loaded, reducing exposure to vulnerabilities.

Python is a prominent example of modular design in action. Its Standard Library includes a wide range of built-in modules that extend the language’s functionality without overwhelming the core syntax. This modular structure allows Python to remain beginner-friendly while offering powerful tools for more advanced development.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Westra |first=Erik |title=Modular programming with Python: introducing modular techniques for building sophisticated programs using Python |date=2016 |publisher=Packt Publishing |isbn=978-1-78588-448-1 |edition=1st |___location=Place of publication not identified}}</ref>

=== In smartphones ===

{{Further|Modular smartphone}}

ForThe smartphonesidea (seeof alsoa modular [[Modular smartphone]]), this idea was explored in [[Project Ara]], which provided a platform for manufactures to create modules for a smartphone which could then be customised by the end user. The [[Fairphone]] uses a similar principle, where the user can purchase individual parts to repair or upgrade the phone.

=== In televisions ===

In 1963 [[Motorola]] introduced the first rectangular color picture tube, and in 1967 introduced the modular [[Quasar (brand)|Quasar]] brand. In 1964 it opened its first research and development branch outside of the United States, in Israel under the management of Moses Basin. In 1974 [[Motorola]] sold its television business to the Japan-based Matsushita, the parent company of [[Panasonic]].

=== In weaponry ===

A computer is one of the best examples of modular design. Typical [[computer module]]s include a [[computer case|computer chassis]], [[Power supply unit (computer)|power supply units]], [[Central processing unit|processors]], [[mainboard]]s, [[graphics card]]s, [[hard drive]]s, and [[optical drive]]s. All of these parts should be easily [[interchangeable parts|interchangeable]] as long as the user uses parts that support the same standard interface. Similar to the computer's modularity, other tools have been developed to leverage modular design, such as [[LittleBits|littleBits Electronics]], which snap together with interoperable modules to create circuits.<ref name="PSFK 5.15">{{cite web|title=How One Entrepreneur Is Bringing Fringe Maker Knowledge Mainstream|url=http://www.psfk.com/2014/08/one-entrepreneur-bringing-fringe-maker-knowledge-mainstream.html|website=PSFK|publisher=PSFK|access-date=27 May 2015|ref=PSFK|date=2014-08-26}}</ref>

{{main|Modular weapon system}}

Some firearms and weaponry use a modular design to make maintenance and operation easier and more familiar. For instance, German [[firearms manufacturer]] [[Heckler & Koch]] produces several weapons that, while being different types, are visually and, in many instances, internally similar. These are the [[Heckler & Koch G3|G3]] [[battle rifle]], [[Heckler & Koch HK21|HK21]] [[general-purpose machine gun]], [[Heckler & Koch MP5|MP5]] [[submachine gun]], [[Heckler & Koch HK33|HK33]] and [[Heckler & Koch G41|G41]] [[assault rifle]]s, and [[Heckler & Koch PSG1|PSG1]] [[sniper rifle]].

=== In trade show exhibits and retail displays ===

For smartphones (see also [[Modular smartphone]]), this idea was explored in [[Project Ara]], which provided a platform for manufactures to create modules for a smartphone which could then be customised by the end user. The [[Fairphone]] uses a similar principle, where the user can purchase individual parts to repair or upgrade the phone.

The concept of Modularmodular design has become popular with [[trade show]] exhibits and [[Retail display|retail promotionpromotional displays too]]. These kind of promotional displays involve creative custom designs but need a temporary structure that can be reusable. Thus many companies are adapting to the Modular way of exhibit design. In this they can use pre engineered modular systems that act as building blocks to creative a custom design. These can then be reconfigured to another layout and reused for a future show. This enables the user to reduce cost of manufacturing and labor (for set up and transport) and is a more sustainable way of creating experiential set ups.

==Integrating the digital twin into modular design==

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* analyzing the different flowpaths it is possible to identify the critical components that affect the performance of the system;

* by optimizing those components and substituting them with more performing ones, it is possible to improve the performances of the system.

A better formulation has been produced during the MAAT EU FP7 Project.<ref>{{Cite web | url=httphttps://cordis.europa.eu/project/rcn/99650_en.html | title=Multibody Advanced Airship for Transport &#124; Projects &#124; FP7-TRANSPORT}}</ref> A new design method that couples the above bottom-up optimization with a preliminary system level top-down design has been formulated.<ref>Dumas A, Madonia M, Trancossi M, Vucinic D (2013) [httphttps://www.academia.edu/download/43218871/Propulsion_of_Photovoltaic_Cruiser-Feede20160229-7290-15tzf2r.pdf "Propulsion of photovoltaic cruiser-feeder airships dimensioning by constructal design for efficiency method"]{{dead link|date=July 2022|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}. SAE Int J Aerosp 6(1):273–285. {{doi|10.4271/2013-01-2303}}</ref> The two step design process has been motivated by considering that constructal and modular design does not refer to any objective to be reached in the design process. A theoretical formulation has been provided in a recent paper,<ref name="Trancossi 2015"/> and applied with success to the design of a small aircraft,<ref>Trancossi, M., Bingham, C., Capuani, A., Das, S. et al., [https://www.academia.edu/download/39296132/2015-01-2465.pdf "Multifunctional unmanned reconnaissance aircraft for low-speed and STOL operations"]{{dead link|date=July 2022|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}, SAE Technical Paper 2015-01-2465, 2015. {{doi|10.4271/2015-01-2465}}</ref> the conceptual design of innovative commuter aircraft,<ref>Trancossi, M., Madonia, M., Dumas, A. et al. [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/297890415 "A new aircraft architecture based on the ACHEON Coanda effect nozzle: flight model and energy evaluation"]. ''Eur. Transp. Res. Rev.'' (2016) 8: 11. {{doi|10.1007/s12544-016-0198-4}}</ref><ref>Trancossi, M., Dumas, A., Madonia, M., Subhash, M. et al., [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/300470359 "Preliminary implementation study of ACHEON thrust and vector electrical propulsion on a STOL light utility aircraft"], SAE Technical Paper 2015-01-2422, 2015. {{doi|10.4271/2015-01-2422}}</ref> the design of a new entropic wall,<ref>Trancossi, M., et al. [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301779272 "Constructal design of an entropic wall with circulating water inside"]. ''Journal of Heat Transfer'', 2016, 138.8: 082801.</ref> and an innovative off-road vehicle designed for [[Fuel efficiency|energy efficiency]].<ref>Trancossi M., Pascoa J, [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/309732623 "Design of an innovative off road hybrid vehicle by energy efficiency criteria"], ''International Journal of Heat and Technology'', 2016. </ref>

==See also==

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* Baldwin, C.Y., Clark, K.B., "''The Option Value of Modularity in Design''" Harvard Business School, 2002 [http://www.people.hbs.edu/cbaldwin/DR2/DR1Option.pdf]

* Levin, Mark Sh. "''Modular systems design and evaluation''". Springer, 2015.

* [httphttps://www.cs.drexel.edu/~yfcai/Presentations/Modularity%20in%20Design_CMU.ppt Modularity in Design Formal Modeling & Automated Analysis]

* [http://www.connected.org/media/modular.html "Modularity: upgrading to the next generation design architecture"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190719062453/http://www.connected.org/media/modular.html |date=2019-07-19 }}, an interview