2.1.3: Electrical Engineering
- Page ID
- 113082
\( \newcommand{\vecs}[1]{\overset { \scriptstyle \rightharpoonup} {\mathbf{#1}} } \)
\( \newcommand{\vecd}[1]{\overset{-\!-\!\rightharpoonup}{\vphantom{a}\smash {#1}}} \)
\( \newcommand{\dsum}{\displaystyle\sum\limits} \)
\( \newcommand{\dint}{\displaystyle\int\limits} \)
\( \newcommand{\dlim}{\displaystyle\lim\limits} \)
\( \newcommand{\id}{\mathrm{id}}\) \( \newcommand{\Span}{\mathrm{span}}\)
( \newcommand{\kernel}{\mathrm{null}\,}\) \( \newcommand{\range}{\mathrm{range}\,}\)
\( \newcommand{\RealPart}{\mathrm{Re}}\) \( \newcommand{\ImaginaryPart}{\mathrm{Im}}\)
\( \newcommand{\Argument}{\mathrm{Arg}}\) \( \newcommand{\norm}[1]{\| #1 \|}\)
\( \newcommand{\inner}[2]{\langle #1, #2 \rangle}\)
\( \newcommand{\Span}{\mathrm{span}}\)
\( \newcommand{\id}{\mathrm{id}}\)
\( \newcommand{\Span}{\mathrm{span}}\)
\( \newcommand{\kernel}{\mathrm{null}\,}\)
\( \newcommand{\range}{\mathrm{range}\,}\)
\( \newcommand{\RealPart}{\mathrm{Re}}\)
\( \newcommand{\ImaginaryPart}{\mathrm{Im}}\)
\( \newcommand{\Argument}{\mathrm{Arg}}\)
\( \newcommand{\norm}[1]{\| #1 \|}\)
\( \newcommand{\inner}[2]{\langle #1, #2 \rangle}\)
\( \newcommand{\Span}{\mathrm{span}}\) \( \newcommand{\AA}{\unicode[.8,0]{x212B}}\)
\( \newcommand{\vectorA}[1]{\vec{#1}} % arrow\)
\( \newcommand{\vectorAt}[1]{\vec{\text{#1}}} % arrow\)
\( \newcommand{\vectorB}[1]{\overset { \scriptstyle \rightharpoonup} {\mathbf{#1}} } \)
\( \newcommand{\vectorC}[1]{\textbf{#1}} \)
\( \newcommand{\vectorD}[1]{\overrightarrow{#1}} \)
\( \newcommand{\vectorDt}[1]{\overrightarrow{\text{#1}}} \)
\( \newcommand{\vectE}[1]{\overset{-\!-\!\rightharpoonup}{\vphantom{a}\smash{\mathbf {#1}}}} \)
\( \newcommand{\vecs}[1]{\overset { \scriptstyle \rightharpoonup} {\mathbf{#1}} } \)
\( \newcommand{\vecd}[1]{\overset{-\!-\!\rightharpoonup}{\vphantom{a}\smash {#1}}} \)
\(\newcommand{\avec}{\mathbf a}\) \(\newcommand{\bvec}{\mathbf b}\) \(\newcommand{\cvec}{\mathbf c}\) \(\newcommand{\dvec}{\mathbf d}\) \(\newcommand{\dtil}{\widetilde{\mathbf d}}\) \(\newcommand{\evec}{\mathbf e}\) \(\newcommand{\fvec}{\mathbf f}\) \(\newcommand{\nvec}{\mathbf n}\) \(\newcommand{\pvec}{\mathbf p}\) \(\newcommand{\qvec}{\mathbf q}\) \(\newcommand{\svec}{\mathbf s}\) \(\newcommand{\tvec}{\mathbf t}\) \(\newcommand{\uvec}{\mathbf u}\) \(\newcommand{\vvec}{\mathbf v}\) \(\newcommand{\wvec}{\mathbf w}\) \(\newcommand{\xvec}{\mathbf x}\) \(\newcommand{\yvec}{\mathbf y}\) \(\newcommand{\zvec}{\mathbf z}\) \(\newcommand{\rvec}{\mathbf r}\) \(\newcommand{\mvec}{\mathbf m}\) \(\newcommand{\zerovec}{\mathbf 0}\) \(\newcommand{\onevec}{\mathbf 1}\) \(\newcommand{\real}{\mathbb R}\) \(\newcommand{\twovec}[2]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\ctwovec}[2]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\threevec}[3]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cthreevec}[3]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\fourvec}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cfourvec}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\fivevec}[5]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \\ #5 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cfivevec}[5]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \\ #5 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\mattwo}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{rr}#1 \amp #2 \\ #3 \amp #4 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\laspan}[1]{\text{Span}\{#1\}}\) \(\newcommand{\bcal}{\cal B}\) \(\newcommand{\ccal}{\cal C}\) \(\newcommand{\scal}{\cal S}\) \(\newcommand{\wcal}{\cal W}\) \(\newcommand{\ecal}{\cal E}\) \(\newcommand{\coords}[2]{\left\{#1\right\}_{#2}}\) \(\newcommand{\gray}[1]{\color{gray}{#1}}\) \(\newcommand{\lgray}[1]{\color{lightgray}{#1}}\) \(\newcommand{\rank}{\operatorname{rank}}\) \(\newcommand{\row}{\text{Row}}\) \(\newcommand{\col}{\text{Col}}\) \(\renewcommand{\row}{\text{Row}}\) \(\newcommand{\nul}{\text{Nul}}\) \(\newcommand{\var}{\text{Var}}\) \(\newcommand{\corr}{\text{corr}}\) \(\newcommand{\len}[1]{\left|#1\right|}\) \(\newcommand{\bbar}{\overline{\bvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\bhat}{\widehat{\bvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\bperp}{\bvec^\perp}\) \(\newcommand{\xhat}{\widehat{\xvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\vhat}{\widehat{\vvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\uhat}{\widehat{\uvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\what}{\widehat{\wvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\Sighat}{\widehat{\Sigma}}\) \(\newcommand{\lt}{<}\) \(\newcommand{\gt}{>}\) \(\newcommand{\amp}{&}\) \(\definecolor{fillinmathshade}{gray}{0.9}\)Summary
Modular design is also widely used in electrical engineering. Daughterboards and motherboards enable key components to be easily swapped or upgraded, making systems more adaptable, extendable, and customizable (1). This is achieved by sharing complex architectures and frameworks, which allows for greater efficiency and the benefits of economies of scale. Additionally, modular design simplifies logistics, reducing lead times and improving manufacturing efficiency (2).
Below are two strong examples of modularity in action, though examples can be found in nearly every piece of technology you own.
Practical Examples
Framework Laptop
Framework is a company that manufactures and sells laptops with a strong emphasis on upgradeability and modularity. A study sponsored by Framework identified the primary source of greenhouse gas emissions during laptop production as screen size, followed closely by integrated circuits and RAM. (3) You can find the Framework laptop page here.
By designing laptops with replaceable components, Framework can significantly reduce its environmental impact. Instead of needing to manufacture an entirely new PCB (printed circuit board) when a part fails, individual components can be replaced on smaller daughterboards. This targeted approach minimizes waste and reduces the overall carbon footprint. For example, many laptops, like MacBooks, have soldered RAM, meaning the entire motherboard must be replaced if the RAM malfunctions. Since RAM is often one of the first components to fail in a computer, Framework's design allows for a more sustainable, modular repair process. (3)
Framework's modular design also extends to the laptop screen. The connectors for the screen are designed to be easier to access, reducing the need for complex soldering when replacements are needed. This ease of access allows for faster, more efficient repairs, which limits downtime and reduces electronic waste, further supporting sustainability efforts. (3)
However, modularity does come with its own environmental trade-offs. The same study (3) that examined greenhouse gas emissions also analyzed resource depletion. One significant concern is the increased demand for gold, which coats the contacts between modular components, especially in the RAM. Gold extraction has its own environmental costs, contributing to resource depletion and pollution. This underscores the importance of balancing the benefits of modularity with its resource impacts. While modular designs can offer a path forward in reducing electronic waste and promoting sustainability, they also come with the risk of unintended consequences if not carefully managed. (3)
In summary, modularity is a promising step toward extending product lifespans and minimizing electronic waste, making it an important tool in addressing environmental concerns. However, it is essential to apply modularity thoughtfully, as overuse can lead to other environmental costs. Designers must strike a balance, ensuring modularity is leveraged to maximize both its practical benefits and its contributions to sustainability.
Figure 3.3.4.1 A laptop with the same form factor as a framework laptop
Valve SteamDeck
Released in 2022, the Valve SteamDeck quickly became one of the most repairable consumer systems on the market. (citation) From the screen to the controls, nearly every component is replaceable without the need for soldering or third-party components. Following the pandemic, the SteamDeck sparked a surge in interest in handheld computer replacements. (Link to the replacement parts website here)
In contrast, competitors like the Nintendo Switch and traditional gaming consoles feature minimally replaceable components, raising environmental and financial concerns for consumers. A common issue with joystick-based controls is "stick drift," where the joystick moves without any input from the user. (4) On traditional consoles, stick drift often results in replacing entire controllers or, for advanced users, opening the controller to perform complicated repairs. (5) For devices like the Nintendo Switch, replacing the entire controller is often the only option.
The SteamDeck, however, takes a different approach. Its joysticks are mounted on easily accessible daughterboards, allowing users to replace them with just a screwdriver. Valve also sells affordable, first-party replacement boards, making repairs more convenient and accessible. (6) This modularity also simplifies refurbishment and repair processes for Valve, contributing to lower costs for refurbished SteamDeck units. (7)
By embracing modular design, the SteamDeck saves consumers both time and money while providing Valve with an additional revenue stream through replacement parts. This approach benefits users and reflects the growing demand for reparability and sustainability in consumer technology.
Figure 3.3.4.2 A wireframe view of the SteamDeck. Despite being extremely repairable, it has not sacrificed its form factor.
References:
(1) Daughter Board: What Is It, Types, Benifits, Installation | Reversepcb. Reversepcb. https://reversepcb.com/daughter-board/ (accessed 2024-10-27).
(2) Rushton, G.; Zakarian, A.; Grigoryan, T. 6.3.1 Modular Design Approach for Development of Electrical, Electronic, and Software System Architectures for Multiple Product Platforms. INCOSE International Symposium 2003, 13 (1), 517–527. https://doi.org/10.1002/j.2334-5837.2003.tb02637.x.
(3) Baur, S.-J.; Proske, M.; Poppe, E. Life Cycle Assessment of the Framework Laptop 2022; FRAUNHOFER-INSTITUT FÜR ZUVERLÄSSIGKEIT UND MIKROINTEGRATION IZM: 13355 Berlin, Germany, 2023. https://downloads.frame.work/resourc...cle-Report.pdf (accessed 2024-09-21).
(4) Graeber, B.; Garcia, J.; Sanchez, M. What to Do If Your PS5 DualSense Controller Drifts - PlayStation 5 Guide. IGN. https://www.ign.com/wikis/playstatio...troller_Drifts.
(5) Brookes, T. How to Fix (and Avoid) Nintendo Switch Joy-Con Drift. How-To Geek. https://www.howtogeek.com/786520/how...th-spare-parts (accessed 2024-10-27).
(6) Horsey, J. How to replace Steam Deck LCD Thumbsticks and correct drift easily. Geeky Gadgets. https://www.geeky-gadgets.com/replac...d-thumbsticks/ (accessed 2024-10-27).
(7) Steam DeckTM Certified Refurbished. Steampowered.com. https://store.steampowered.com/sale/...eckrefurbished (accessed 2024-10-27).