AS-IS representation and strategic framework for the design and implementation of a disassembly system

Abstract

Disassembly is a critical process in circular manufacturing models for end-of-life (EOL) products, enabling the recovery of components for reuse or repurposing, and reducing the reliance on raw material extraction. However, disassembly systems (DS) face significant barriers and uncertainties. Key challenges include the uncertainty of volume of returned EOL products, the variability of product variants due to mass customization, and the uncertain condition of these products. These factors complicate decision-making in DS design and implementation, impacting resource allocation and sustainability efforts. Moreover, the lack of reliable industrial case studies adds up to these challenges and highlights a gap in the literature. Apart from the low number of available resources and solutions, there is a fundamental need for a deeper understanding of the systematic barriers and strategic challenges facing DS. This work addresses these issues by providing both practitioners and researchers with a methodology for the AS-IS representation of disassembly system design and implementation (DSDI). Additionally, it offers a strategic level framework for DSDI, tested through a case study of a Norwegian electronics company.