Modular Design

Synonyms

Modularity in design

Definition

An approach that subdivides a system into smaller parts (modules) that can be independently created and then used in different systems to drive multiple functionalities.

Theory and Application

Introduction

Modular design is basically to decompose complex systems into simple modules in order to more efficiently organize complex designs and processes. The concept was first introduced by Star (1965), in which the use of modular product in production was proposed as a new concept to develop variety. It makes possible to modify specific modules for a new requirement without influencing the main infrastructure, so that the complex problems can be decomposed into several small ones. Modular design concept has been employed in many fields of design and manufacturing.

The main advantages of modular design include design flexibility, augmentation, and cost reduction. Due to grouping the components to each module, the designer can easily modify each module...