A proposed novel knowledge framework for remanufacturing viability in a modern supply chain

Abstract

Due to increasing legislative demand and rising material and energy costs, there have been growing interests in maximising the useful phase of a product's lifecycle via sustainable extended-life options such as remanufacturing. Due to the modern disparate nature of the manufacturing supply chain, there are several complex issues to be recognised when embarking on end of life product processing, including data availability and the corresponding knowledge gaps that prevent businesses from effective decision making. This paper presents a novel knowledge-based framework, designed to support a business in assessing the suitability of a product for remanufacture when considering critical product parameters and business key performance indicators (KPIs). The structure of the framework is discussed and an example case study is presented in the context of business knowledge requirements for remanufacturing. © Springer-Verlag London 2013.