A BASIS FOR OPTIMIZED SELECTION OF AN END-OF-LIFE PRODUCT DISASSEMBLY SYSTEM

Abstract

The advancement of technology has enabled the human civilization to produce more than ever before, with the alarming consequence being the huge amount of waste generated. Therefore, the disposal of End-of-Life (EoL) products represents one of the biggest problems of the modern world. The vast majority of recycling processes would benefit from the inclusion of a disassembly stage, since a large portion of EoL products is an assembly. Disassembly has the potential to significantly improve overall waste reduction by allowing reuse, avoidance of environmental risks and hazards, and better sorting of materials. The efficient planning, creation and operation of a disassembly system requires solving of many issues related to the varieties of EoL products and their various quantities. Thus, the paper provides a basis for a method that would propose an appropriate disassembly system, based on the state of the product in real time. By monitoring the state of products, even before they enter their EoL phase, it is considered possible to have a dynamic solution suggesting the most appropriate type, number and location of disassembly systems. The method for choosing an appropriate disassembly system (preferably automatized) would improve the disassembly planning and process, by reducing the planning time, while increasing productivity.