A methodology to find an optimal architecture for appliances undergoing periodic governmental regulations and energy-efficiency improvements is proposed. For instance, manufacturers producing home appliances are continuously challenged by new rules and regulations to meet minimum energy efficiency requirements. These requirements are either enforced by new regulations or recommended by voluntary programs, depending on governmental policies. The methodology proposed in this study initially identifies all regulatory and voluntary factors that affect product architecture. These factors include product performance, economic and environmental considerations. Using these factors, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is applied to evaluate trade-offs among alternative product architectures with varying degrees of modularity. Lastly, AHP assists in identifying the optimal product architecture based on the formerly identified factors and criteria. Using this methodology, appliance manufacturers are able to choose the most sustainable architecture, one that is environmentally friendly, and which meets governmental regulations.
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