Abstract

The normative assumption holds that a product’s structural and functional elements are fixed pre-production to support manufacturing efficiency. Firms servitizing are faced with delivering resources for customers in context and absorbing contextual variety presents a number of challenges. This paper examines shortcomings of modular design and whether additive manufacturing can efficiently provides high variety that meets emergent user demand. A case study is undertaken, drawing upon design change data and in-depth interviews with industry experts. Findings show that introducing design changes to modular products through life creates complexity in the product architecture and the supply chain. We find that AM can act as a supply chain solution, managing complexity and allowing products and supply chains to efficiently and effectively absorb contextual variety. Existing theory must expand beyond the normative assumption that the physical product is fixed, to include cases where the tangible product can absorb variety to meet the emergent need.

摘要

规范假设认为，产品的结构和功能元素在生产前是固定的，以支持制造效率。提供服务的公司面临着在上下文中为客户提供资源和吸收上下文多样性带来了许多挑战。本文探讨了模块化设计的缺点，以及增材制造能否有效地提供满足紧急用户需求的多样化。进行案例研究，利用设计变更数据和与行业专家的深入访谈。调查结果表明，在整个生命周期中对模块化产品进行设计更改会增加产品架构和供应链的复杂性。我们发现 AM 可以作为供应链解决方案，管理复杂性并允许产品和供应链有效地吸收上下文多样性。现有理论必须超越实物产品是固定的规范假设，包括有形产品可以吸收多样性以满足紧急需求的情况。