Design for remanufacturing - A fuzzy-QFD approach

Abstract

This paper proposes a methodology based on fuzzy sets theory and qualify function deployment (QFD) for integrating the various remanufacturing design factors into the initial product definition stage and providing a compromising solution for different or sometimes conflicting design requirements. In this methodology, weights will be assigned to design requirements based on a multi-objective decision hierarchy. Next, a QFD framework will be employed to map these requirements to engineering attributes that designers would need to focus on in order to improve product remanufacturability. A case study for the automobile remanufacturing industry is selected to illustrate the proposed methodology.