Engineering
Configure-to-Order is only possible when engineering no longer depends on customization per order, but works with a configurable product platform. That requires more than design principles: it requires concrete engineering output that is repeatable, maintainable and scalable.
Modular5 delivers the engineering power to realise configurable products. We translate modular architecture into tangible deliverables: master models, modules, product templates, EBOM structures, configuration rules and documentation.
What we deliver:
9 concrete engineering deliverables
Not just models. Complete building blocks usable in sales, order engineering, production, and service.
1. Modular product architecture (platform structure)
We define and realise a platform architecture in which products are logically built from modules.
- Module breakdown and platform structure
- Module scope and variant strategy
- Design rules and standardization principles
2. Module engineering with fixed interfaces
Modules are the core of modularization. We design modules as functional building blocks with fixed interfaces and controllable variation.
- Module variants and module families
- Interface definitions (mechanical, electrical, software)
- Interface management and compatibility rules
3. Variation heatmaps & module books
To gain control over variation we map requirements and variant pressure per module. We translate this into module books: a technical document that makes the module manageable.
- Variation heatmaps per product family
- Module books with function, interfaces, variants and strategy
- Reduction strategy and update agenda per module
4. Master Model Architecture
We build a Master Model Architecture per product type that forms the basis for scalable templates and configuration.
- Product variation model (variants and relationships)
- Modular architecture and module connections
- Interface management structure
5. Master Models & configurable CAD templates
We realise master models that are ready for reuse and configuration. These are configurable CAD building blocks that drastically reduce engineering work.
- Configurable master models per module
- Parametric templates where relevant
- Reusable subassemblies and building blocks
6. Configurable EBOM structure (platform + options)
Configure-to-Order requires an EBOM that is not project-based, but logically configurable.
- EBOM platform structure with options / variants
- Option classes and variant logic
- Standard assemblies and configuration blocks
7. Configuration rules & rule sets
We translate engineering knowledge into rules. Not to increase complexity, but to make repeatability possible.
- Configuration rules and constraints
- Ruleset documentation
- Basis for CPQ or configurator implementation
8. Standard engineering outputs & documentation packages
Configurable building also means configurable output. So we standardise the engineering deliverables needed for production and customer documentation.
- Standard drawings and layouts
- Documentation templates (datasheets, manuals, certificates)
- Bills of materials and output structures per configuration
9. Classification & product data cleanup
A configurable platform can only exist with good data. We support in structuring and cleaning up articles and product data.
- Article classification and part families
- Preferred parts and reduction plan
- Data readiness for PLM/ERP
Learning by doing, together with your teams.
We believe that change in engineering only succeeds if engineers experience it in practice. That's why we work according to learning by doing: we immediately take a product or module and build it in the new structure.
This ensures:
- Fast validation of the architecture
- Buy-in within engineering and operations
- Tangible proof of the business case
- Acceleration toward scalable templates
Many companies get stuck after the consultancy phase because the internal engineering organisation has no capacity to build modules, master models and templates alongside the running order book.
Modular5 combines consultants and engineers and thereby delivers both the thinking work and the doing work. This way we accelerate implementation and realise faster returns.
Engineering deliverables that enable Configure-to-Order lead to:
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Up to 50% reduction in unique parts
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Up to 90% reduction in engineering hours on configurable orders
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Shorter quotation lead time and higher win rate
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Faster throughput time through parallel manufacturing (or: parallel building)
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Higher first-time-right and fewer failure costs
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Better lifecycle upgrades and serviceability
What is your futureIndustry?
Modular Machine Building
Modular Trailer Engineering
Modular Yacht Engineering
Are you ready to move to Configure-to-Order?
Modular5 helps ambitious organisations transform complex products into configurable modular solutions. Less chaos in engineering. Faster lead times. Higher margins — without losing the customization your customers value.
