A modular manufacturing system uses a universal base and power infrastructure to receive a variety of tooling plates. This is accomplished by the creation of a modular service interface for simultaneous connection of electrical and fluid power from the base to the tooling plate. In addition, a sensing system is used to automatically identify the specific tool set, and to distinguish between a single plate tool set and a double plate tool set. Individual tool sets are located with certainty through the use of physical placement guide rollers, stops, and friction fit. A PLC manages the power, tool set identification and user interface.