Friday, 20 May 2011

Mass Customisation - Selection + Supply Chain Diagram

This diagram simplifies the mass customisation structure of many companies, such as Dell, Scania, and 121 Time - a Swiss Watch company.

F1 Car - Breakdown of Components

The Formula 1 Car is a great example in terms of disassembly, where the heirarchy between component modules and sub-assemblies are designed to maximise maintainability. There strong variations in component longevity, ranging from a set of tyres/wheels, which can last 1 qualifying session, to an engine of chasis which can last up to a season. Although this is the most extreme in terms of engineering, the same theories are applied constantly, throughout the automotive, shipping and aircraft industries.

Source: http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/bmw_f107_2007.jpg

Some Interesting Points - The Costs of DFD

"Design and procurement detailing - It is likely that initially the design phase will take longer and therefore be more costly. This is always the case as new practices develop and take hold. Reused materials can often be more expensive as reconditioning them has taken time.

Higher premium on materials/components - For similar reasons to the design and procurement phase taking longer, there is likely to be a higher cost for materials and components initially. As manufacturers begin to address the demand for new products with fixings and fasteners that facilitate deconstruction they will recoup the sunk development costs with premiums on new and innovative products and materials. In time as the cost will decrease as competition increases. There is also a financial disincentive for manufacturers to produce materials that can be used indefinitely as they will not be benefiting from repeat business. It may be that manufacturers adopt different philosophies to the supply of building products and materials, and in fact adopt a leasing model rather than a sales model."

source: http://yourdevelopment.org/factsheet/view/id/54#articlekeycost

First Light - Complete Time Lapse - Construction + Assembly First Trial

This video provides a full break down into how the modules for first light were constructed. The video reveals that a mix of assembly and traditional construction methods were used. It clearly shows the heirarchy of elements, components and sub-assemblies.


First Light - On Site Time Lapse

This video is very helpful, providing understanding into how the building is assembled and disassembled.