Optimization design of modularized product family based on kernel platform

A series of relevant factors affecting interactions among components in product lifecycle were initially ana-lyzed. Afterwards, a systematic method based on similarity characteristics was proposed. The method was used to carry out the concurrent optimization of modularization and kernel platform design of product family. In addition, the simulated algorithm technique was applied to achieve ultimate product family allocation scheme and the proposed method was compared with traditional design method from the production cost's viewpoint. Combining with an illustrative case of air - conditioner, the approach proposed was demonstrated to come up with the optimal layout of product family rationally and effectively. It also has brought about a new numerical computing evaluation method for product design theory of mass customization.