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Interface Standardization and Cost of Complexity Assessment: Enhancements to the Impact Model of Modular Product Families
Ridder, Maximilian; Inselmann, Pascal; Krause, Dieter
Type:
Year:
2026
Editor:
Langner, Christopher; Kreimeyer, Matthias; Panarotto, Massimo; Cascini, Gaetano; Browning, Tyson R.; Eppinger, Steven D.; Yassine, Ali A.
Author:
Series:
DSM
Institution:
Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH), Germany
Page(s):
041-050
DOI number:
ISBN:
NA
ISSN:
NA
Abstract:
This contribution proposes two complementary extensions to the established Impact Model of Modular Product Families to improve the economic assessment of modular architectures. The first extension addresses the model’s input parameters by explicitly incorporating interface standardization and directly linking modularity characteristics to life‑cycle‑specific economic target values. This enhances the traceability between development decisions and their economic effects. The second extension expands the set of economic target values by introducing variety‑induced Cost of Complexity as a dedicated dimension, integrating time‑ and cost‑related impact chains into a consolidated cost perspective. To support systematic identification and prioritization of relevant cost effects, a Cost Impact Matrix is introduced, mapping causal impact chains to generic, company‑independent cost categories. Together, these extensions strengthen the analytical power of the Impact Model and provide a more transparent basis for early‑stage evaluation and decision‑making in modular product family development.
Keywords:
