A First Step towards Cross-Platform Integration in Modular Micro-assembly Systems – Concept for a Process Module Construction Kit

Abstract

The potential of modular micro-assembly systems can often not be fully exploited by small companies, as commercial availability of process modules is limited and the development and maintenance of a pool of process modules is too elaborate. To overcome this problem, an open process module interface specification is proposed, which allows integration of process modules into different systems (cross-platform integration). Based on the specification, a process module construction kit is presented, which shall reduce the development effort of process modules. Both concepts are a prerequisite for an independent platform for modular process equipment. A net present value analysis and a SWOT-analysis are performed to evaluate the concept system against special purpose machinery. The results show that a modular system reduces investment risks whilst improving the ability to follow the market dynamics.