A lean framework for prototyping demanufacturing work cell automation

Electronics manufacturers face a unique challenge in attempting to manage a stream of used goods of different value to meet uncertain demands for reused products or recycled materials. In current systems, items are processed and stored manually and high inventories are often maintained. High volumes of used goods necessitate automated solutions to the sorting and dismantling tasks. A new approach is presented for prototyping demanufacturing cell automation using lean principles. Prototyping of the automation is based on value definition, used good value stream mapping, flow, pull, and continuous improvement. Therefore, the demanufacturing cell automation is optimized to provide the demanufacturer the maximum value in the least amount of time from a used product stream. A prototype demanufacturing cell is proposed based on the comparison of feasible automation strategies for demanufacturing strategy includes the specification of configuration of manipulators, sensors, and material handling devices in the work cell as well as a processing method such as partially destructive disassembly. The prototyping methodology is illustrated with a case study for demanufacturing cell phones. Conclusions regarding the effectiveness of the prototyping methodology are presented and areas for future investigation are identified.