Model based virtual engineering approach to remanufacturing design

Although remanufacturing can be both profitable and less harmful to the environment than traditional manufacturing, its uptake is still limited. Previous research shows that this limitation could be the consequence of poor definition of remanufacturing and confusion with terms like second-hand or refurbished products. Other research claims that this downturn is due to the fact that OEMs are not actively engaged in remanufacturing and therefore the products are not designed for remanufacture; inadvertently increasing the cost of remanufacturing. To make the remanufacturing oriented design, it is important to have effective flow of communication across the supply chain with the help of virtual engineering tools. This research investigates the model based virtual engineering approach in the search for a unique solution that would foster the growth of remanufacturing.