Supporting modular product family representations by methodically utilising meta-models

Due to the rising multidisciplinarity and connectivity of products especially modular product families, a sophisticated handling of the information is crucial for reducing complexity during the development. System modelling techniques have evolved to assist engineers with managing information. However, nowadays, it is rarely focusing on modular product families. This paper introduces a meta-model based on an ontology, which improves the creation and management of modular product family and its occurring data. The meta-model is presented using the example of a Passenger Service Unit (PSU).