Scientific and Practical Challenges for the Development of a New Approach to the Simulation of Remanufacturing

Abstract

This article explores the scientific and practical challenges associated with developing simulation modeling methods for remanufacturing within a circular economy framework. It aims to define this concept and identify the key hurdles that need to be overcome for its successful implementation. According to the six principles of sustainable development, the key pillar is remanufacturing. Remanufacturing helps the environment in several different ways, including: saving energy, the conservation of raw materials, the conservation of space, landfills, the reduction of air pollution, and greater fuel efficiency. This process closes the loop in the supply chain, exemplifying the principles of a circular economy. The research methods used are primarily the analysis and criticism of literature, document examination—especially in relation to existing simulation programs and analysis—the logical construction method, and the heuristic method, used to define concept of simulation modelling. In response to scientific and practical challenges, the concept of a new modeling method was defined and presented. This concept uses the legacy of Lean and the author’s original ideas regarding the structuring of the remanufacturing factory and processes. The main contribution of this study is integration, embedding this concept into the simulation software. A comparison with existing solutions and the advantages of the new concept are also included in the article.