Proposal of a design methodology for modularity using geometric information

In these days, modular design of a product is becoming important even for environmental conscious design in order to improve, e. g., reusability, disassemblability, and recyclability. In order to derive a feasible module structure, not only environmental aspects but also geometric information bears important roles. This paper presents a modular design methodology for life cycle engineering that proposes module structure by using information on geometry and product life cycle. The case study of an inkjet printer revealed that the derived modular structure satisfies the various demands from product life cycle with keeping the geometric consistency.