Knowledge Base Repository
In addition to research papers, the Design Society is developing several valuable resources for those interested in the study of design. These include a repository of PhD theses, a library of case studies and transcripts of design activities, and an archive of our newsletters. Please note that these resources are accessible exclusively to Design Society members.
Structuring Product Family Variability Through DSM-Informed Parametric CAD Modeling
Veeraraghavan, Aniruddhan; Becattini, Niccolo
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:
Politecnico di Milano, Italy
Page(s):
211-220
DOI number:
ISBN:
NA
ISSN:
NA
Abstract:
In manufacturing, product families often exhibit variant diversity that complicates efficient design processes. This paper introduces an original method to enhance product design efficiency through parametric CAD modeling, leveraging DSM-like matrices to analyze existing products within a company's catalog. The approach compares products at the component level using adjacency matrices to identify structural similarities and differences, capturing dependencies in assembly hierarchies. It then drills down to the part feature level, employing feature-based DSM matrices to quantify parametric variations (such as dimensions and geometries) that distinguish family variants. Key parameters are systematically extracted by analyzing matrixes, revealing leverage points for parameterization. This process generates "master models": reusable parametric 3D CAD templates that encapsulate family commonality while accommodating variants via adjustable parameters. The method has been tested on actual products in the B2B channel for components used in household appliances, providing preliminary evidence of its adequacy, effectiveness, and limitations.
Keywords:
