Optimal disassembly sequencing strategy using constraint programming approach

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a framework to identify all the feasible disassembly sequences for a multi‐component product and to find an optimal disassembly sequence, according to specific criteria such as cost, duration, profit, etc.

Design/methodology/approach

Taking into account topological and geometrical constraints of a product structure, an AND/OR disassembly graph is built. Each graph node represents a feasible subassembly. Two nodes i and j are connected by an arc (i, j), called a transition, if the subassembly j can be obtained from the subassembly i by removing one or several connectors. Constraint programming approach is used to generate the feasible subassemblies and related transitions.

Findings

If a cost z_ij is incurred to perform a transition (i, j), an optimal disassembly sequence can be generated for a given subassembly, using the shortest path algorithm or a linear programming model.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed approach performs very well compared to other approaches published in the literature, even when applied to products requiring parallel disassembly and including a large number of parts.

Practical implications

This approach has been successfully applied to assess the wheelchair maintainability at the design stage and will be implemented in CAD systems. One other application, regarding the disassembly process and total revenue maximization for product recycling, is now under consideration.

Originality/value

Applying constraint programming to efficiently generate the set of the feasible subassemblies constitutes the main contribution in this paper. This process is the hardest step in the disassembly sequencing problem.

Citation

Zwingmann, X., Ait‐Kadi, D., Coulibaly, A. and Mutel, B. (2008), "Optimal disassembly sequencing strategy using constraint programming approach", Journal of Quality in Maintenance Engineering, Vol. 14 No. 1, pp. 46-58. https://doi.org/10.1108/13552510810861932