Modularity and standardization improve the design and manufacturing of electrical cabinets
As the number of customer projects grows and solutions become increasingly similar, a key question arises: does every implementation need to be designed from scratch? At Promeco, this challenge was addressed by developing a standardized and modular operating model for electrical cabinet manufacturing.
Identifying development potential through repeatability
The starting point was a situation where customer needs were largely similar, but implementations varied case by case. As a result, each solution was effectively designed separately, even though clear patterns and repeatability could be identified in the structures.
As volumes increased, the limitations of this approach became evident. A model based on individual solutions began to burden both design and production, while also creating risks related to inefficiency and complexity.
From tailored solutions to a standardized model
At Promeco, an opportunity was identified to build a shared foundation for these solutions. Instead of designing each system individually, a standardized model was developed that can be adapted to specific customer needs.
“The goal was to create a foundation that accommodates all variations without having to start from scratch every time,” says Tommi Tuulenmäki, PMO Manager at Promeco.
Modularity enables flexibility
Standardization is supported by a modular structure. While the core structure of each module remains the same, the components within the module can vary. This allows the same module framework to be used for different applications and power requirements.
When new needs arise, a new module can be developed, if necessary, without redesigning the entire system.
Efficiency in design and production
A standardized and modular model brings clear benefits across the entire value chain.
In design:
- ready-made solutions speed up the process
- the same core structure can be reused
- the need for fully new designs is reduced
In production:
- assembly is based on predefined modules
- work phases can be optimized and standardized
- expertise develops through repeatable structures
“When the overall solution is standardized, production can operate much more efficiently. Instead of case-by-case builds, work is based on a clear and repeatable model,” says Tommi Tuulenmäki, PMO Manager at Promeco.
Benefits are visible to the customer
Transitioning from tailored solutions to a standardized model requires close collaboration with the customer. A shared understanding is essential: the solution must be both sufficiently flexible and standardized.
Key benefits include the following:
- shorter lead times
- improved cost efficiency
- better quality and predictability
In addition, a standardized structure significantly simplifies maintenance and lifecycle management. When systems are based on the same core design, maintenance personnel are familiar with the structure and can operate quickly and reliably. Spare part management and later modifications also become more straightforward.
Standardization can be applied across use cases
A similar approach can be applied broadly in situations where repeatability can be identified:
- similar structures recur across projects
- variations can be managed at the module level
- systems can be broken down into clear sub-entities
When these factors are recognized early, it becomes possible to build solutions that combine the efficiency of standardization with the flexibility of customization.
Do you have a similar application in mind where certain elements repeat from project to project? Get in touch with our experts to explore how your solution could be standardized.