Analysis of Modular Design Applicable in Prosumer Scope. Guideline in the Creation of a New Modular Design Model

Abstract

Modular design is the design based on independent and connectable modules to achieve product variety. It is an ideal tool that could facilitate the inclusion of prosumers in the creative process. However, its evolution has focused on product development and not on end users. The creation of a new modular design model for prosumers could respond to their needs while exploiting the advantages of modularity. The present work analyzes the applicability of modular design in the prosumer scope and defines a guideline for the creation of the new model. To this end, prosumer and modular design methods are collected and analyzed throughout the previously defined design process. The intersection between both terms is analyzed through a series of real cases and design methods that show what the objectives of prosumers are and if the present products and methods meet their needs. These results will establish the current and potential link between modular design and prosumers. Finally, the objectives and stages to develop the design model based on previous results are presented. The paper presents relevant findings such as the lack of methods in the conceptual design phases and a guideline to ensure that the prosumer benefits from modular design.

Multidimensional Characteristics and Construction of Classification Model of Prosumers

“…(2) Use new methods to help prosumers improve their productive thinking ability. Adopt a modular design model to respond to the needs of prosumers in real-time [75]; take advantage of digital twins to realize real-time interaction between the physical world and virtual world in product life cycle management [76]; and optimize the sustainability of physical systems or products in the stages of scheme design, manufacturing, and distribution through continuous individual product information flow [77]. (3) With the help of multi-media integration, promote the resource interconnection and allocation of prosumers.…”

El usuario final como diseñador.Un enfoque desde la industria

“…Algunos ejemplos son la fabricación ágil, la reducción del tiempo de producción, la mejora de la distribución o la escalabilidad. Sin embargo, el diseño modular centrado en el usuario final posee otros beneficios para la empresa más novedosos (Asión-Suñer & López-Forniés, 2021b). Gracias a la estandarización de los componentes, se pueden solventar aspectos como la homologación.…”