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Review and challenges for the remanufacturing assembly quality with uncertainty

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Green Manuf Open 2023;1:15.
10.20517/gmo.2023.072701 |  © The Author(s) 2023.
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Abstract

Remanufacturing businesses have difficulty in competing and expanding due to the unpredictable quality and performance of remanufactured products. It has turned into a problem area and a bottleneck for the growth of the remanufacturing sector. The control and management of remanufactured assembly quality (RAQ) is considered one of the key factors affecting the quality of remanufactured products. By reviewing existing literature, we have found that in remanufacturing assembly systems, the uncertainty of remanufacturing components, the volatility of remanufacturing assembly processes, the complexity of assembly control, and the diversity of assembly schemes are the main reasons for the difficulty in ensuring assembly quality. However, existing literature lacks research on data management, evolutionary mechanisms of RAQ, and multivariate control. To improve the stability of RAQ and improve the quality of remanufactured products, we propose the construction of an intelligent reasoning mode for precise RAQ control and a tailored, intelligent control method for individual components, providing support for the intelligent control of remanufactured assembly functional modules. This study provides a basis for implementing high-performance assembly technology for remanufactured products. Our findings should encourage the industry’s modernization for remanufacturing.

Keywords

Remanufacturing Assembly, quality, uncertainty, intelligent control

INTRODUCTION

To achieve carbon neutrality strategic goals, the manufacturing industry must carry out carbon reduction and decarbonization throughout the industrial chain; thus, it must construct a sustainable industrial green development model[1]. Remanufacturing is widely considered indispensable and important across multiple industries. It involves the revitalization of old machinery and equipment by using them as raw materials and adopting specialized processes and technologies. This process essentially entails carrying out new manufacturing procedures on the basis of the original production methods[2]. Moreover, the remanufactured products are expected to have the same performance or quality as the original new counterparts[3,4]. As a result, remanufacturing can bring energy conservation, emission reduction, and material recycling[5].

Practical data statistics show that the failures caused by the assembly process account for about 46% of the total failures of complex electromechanical products. Unlike the standardization and consistency of original manufacturing components, the control and management of remanufactured assembly quality (RAQ) faces challenges such as uncertainty in the quality of remanufactured components, high-dimensional uncertainty in production data, complex and ever-changing evolution mechanisms, and diversified remanufacturing assembly control[6,7]. These situations result in discrepancies in the quality of remanufactured products. Consumers worry about the reliability of remanufactured products[8,9]. To address the above challenges, ensure high-performance assembly in remanufacturing, and improve the quality of remanufactured products, this article takes remanufacturing assembly systems as the research object, constructs a remanufacturing assembly quality data chain, establishes a quantitative evaluation model for remanufacturing assembly quality, explores the evolution mechanism of remanufacturing assembly quality, proposes a personalized intelligent control method for remanufacturing assembly quality, and designs and develops an intelligent control platform for remanufacturing assembly quality. The aim is to form a theoretical and methodological system for quantitative evaluation, evolution mechanism, and intelligent control to ensure the quality of remanufacturing assembly, providing support for the upgrading and high-quality development of China’s remanufacturing industry.

LITERATURE REVIEW

In recent years, the quality problem of remanufacturing assembly systems has gradually attracted the attention of experts and scholars. Search in the Web of Science database with the keywords Remanufacturing Assembly, Quality, Methods of Remanufacturing Assembly, and Remanufacturing Components, the number of research papers on RAQ has increased year by year [Figure 1]; the average citation frequency of each paper is 9.47, and the h-index is 7.

Review and challenges for the remanufacturing assembly quality with uncertainty

Figure 1. Times cited and publications over time.

We have searched and reviewed papers on remanufacturing assembly in high-quality and high-level journals recognized by experts and scholars in SCI, SSCI, EI, IEEE, Xplore, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases as follows:

The uncertainty of remanufacturing assembly systems

The uncertainty of remanufacturing assembly systems poses challenges for quality control. It is highlighted by the randomness of recycled materials and remanufactured parts (quantity, time, and quality), the dynamics of remanufacturing production processes, and the complexity of its testing and evaluation[10]. Regarding research methods, the primary approach is to describe uncertainty qualitatively or quantitatively through models and construct optimization models targeting remanufacturing costs, quality, time, carbon emissions, and customer satisfaction. Mukhopadhyay and Ma used a two-stage random analysis to study optimal procurement strategies and production decision-making of remanufactured systems[11]. Based on defining the uncertainty connotation of remanufactured parts, Liu et al. established an information entropy measurement model for the uncertainty of remanufactured assembly dimensions to improve the accuracy of remanufactured assembly[12]. Kim et al. studied the efficiency of RAQ using priority scheduling methods[13].

Furthermore, Ge et al. constructed an uncertainty measurement model for remanufacturing cylinder and cylinder heads and proposed a gas tightness quality control method based on a BP neural network[14]. To reduce the impact of uncertainty on a remanufacturing production system, Zahraei and Teo applied the balanced production method to provide a new way to optimize recycling and inventory processes of the remanufacturing system[15]. Huang et al. proposed a method of characterizing recovery quality uncertainty based on modal intervals to guide production activities[16]. Liao et al. assessed environmental benefits of remanufacturing under uncertainty and discussed the factors affecting environmental benefits, providing the methodology for assessing the environmental benefits of remanufacturing production systems under uncertainty[17]. To address the uncertainty and high personalization issues in remanufacturing, Huang et al. proposed a method for designing remanufacturing solutions based on incomplete information about used parts[18]. Wang et al. proposed a component-oriented reassembly model to manage uncertainty[19]. Considering revenue, quality, and demand uncertainty, Reddy et al. proposed a scenario-based two-stage stochastic programming for hybrid manufacturing-manufacturing systems[20]. These authors also presented a two-stage stochastic linear model for a make-to-order hybrid manufacturing-remanufacturing production system by integrating capacity and inventory decisions[21]. Information technology, big data technology, and artificial intelligence (AI) technology will enhance opportunities and ideas in research and practice to relieve uncertainty of remanufacturing assembly systems.

The process methods of a remanufacturing assembly system

Process methods are associated with challenges to the ever-changing and dynamic remanufacturing assembly. To enhance the utilization rate of remanufactured parts and remanufacturing assembly accuracy, Muruganantham et al. used experimental design and variance analysis methods to determine the factors that affect the quality of remanufactured components[22]. Liu et al. proposed a quality optimization method for complex mechanical product remanufacturing processes with the assembly deviation degree[23]. They studied the online optimization method for quality control point tolerance zones in the remanufactured assembly process[24]. Shen et al. proposed an RAQ control method with three-dimensional tolerances and verified its effectiveness with an example[25]. Hu et al. proposed a state space model-based optimization control strategy for automotive engine remanufacturing assembly accuracy, improving the efficiency and quality of the assembly[26]. Liu et al. studied an integrated optimization strategy for quality control of remanufactured products, achieving online quality control in the remanufactured assembly process[27]. Luh et al. utilized Lagrange relaxation, stochastic dynamic programming, and heuristic solving methods to minimize total delay, lead time, and inventory holding costs, thereby improving the efficiency of remanufacturing systems[28].

Taking remanufacturing stage cost, quality loss, and process capability as optimization objectives, Chen et al. established a multi-objective optimization model for remanufacturing tolerance design, and its effectiveness is verified by using a remanufactured gearbox as an example[29]. In combination with additive manufacturing technology, Geng and Bidanda proposed a remanufacturing system tolerance estimation and metric method for reverse engineering[30]. Wang et al. studied this model of error transmission in the assembly process of remanufactured machine tools and used the compensation method to control the product quality with promising results[31]. Sun studied critical process flows and standards for remanufacturing TBM main drive assemblies; they also assessed the quality control standards and testing methods for gear pair meshing[32]. Li et al. studied the error propagation model and optimal control method for RAQ and verified its feasibility with an example[33]. Liu et al. developed a remanufactured multi-objective mixed-flow assembly model by optimizing the cycle time[34]. Kim et al. studied the scheduling problem of remanufacturing systems by establishing an integer programming model[35]. These studies provide theoretical and methodological support for remanufacturing assembly process optimization, enhancing the production management capabilities of remanufacturing assembly workshops.

Multi-objective optimization of a remanufacturing assembly system

The optimization and merging of remanufacturing assembly groups have been a focus of remanufacturing assembly production management to increase the effectiveness and quality of remanufacturing assembly[36]. For example, Liu et al. proposed a tolerance grading selection procedure for remanufactured parts to increase the quality of remanufactured products[37]. Su et al. established a comprehensive selection model for remanufactured parts and used improved ant colony optimization algorithms to realize the optimal selection and assembly of remanufactured parts to increase the efficiency of remanufactured parts[38]. Considering quality, cost, and resource utilization, Jiang et al. studied an optimization method for remanufacturing machine tools[39]. Xue et al. established a multi-objective optimization model for remanufacturing parts with optimization objectives such as life balance and cost[40]. Chen et al. proposed a research method to restructure waste mechanical equipment components based on non-cooperative games[41]. Guiras et al. studied the optimization problem of remanufacturing assembly systems under changes in the ordering cost and quality of waste products[42].

For multi-objective collaborative optimization of cost and quality in remanufacturing products, Xing et al. constructed a remanufacturing matching optimization model under dimensional accuracy constraints[43]. Considering the selection principles of cost, remanufacturing resource utilization, and carbon emissions, Yin et al. established a selection model based on the NSGA-III algorithm using assembly dimension chain tolerance as a constraint function[44]. Lean remanufacturing has been proven to be an effective tool for improving the performance of remanufactured assembly systems[45]; it can accelerate the remanufactured product delivery process and enhance the quality of remanufactured goods[46]. Fu et al. explored how to reduce projected completion time and overall delay and addressed a stochastic multi-objective integrated disassembly-reprocessing-reassembly scheduling problem[47]. Ahn et al. proposed a mixed integer programming model that combines the remanufacturing decomposition process with the assembly system to optimize the disassembly, remanufacturing, and assembly processes[48]. Reddy and Kumar proposed a two-stage stochastic linear model to optimize remanufacturing assembly systems[49]. To depict the level of uncertainty present in the actual production environment, Guo et al. proposed a mathematical model of the stochastic hybrid production line balancing problem with several objectives[50]. These studies improved the resource efficiency and quality assurance capability of remanufacturing assembly systems.

Intelligent control of quality for remanufacturing assembly

With the rapid progress of the new generation of information technology, big data technology and AI technology have been applied in remanufacturing[51]. The requirement for the remanufacturing business to grow in a high-quality manner underscores the need for the intelligence of the entire system[52].

Some investigators explored the intelligent control of RAQ. For example, Ketzenberg et al. studied the impact of yield information on remanufactured parts[53]. Liu et al. applied the J2EE architecture to develop a dynamic process quality system for the engine remanufacturing assembly process and verified its applicability[54]. To achieve the traceability of remanufacturing processes and quality information, Liu et al. explored the future automotive remanufacturing operation mode based on digital twins[55]. Song et al. studied the re-planning of the remanufacturing workshop production line and introduced modules such as residual life evaluation, additive manufacturing, quality monitoring, and RAQ control[56]. The effects of these innovations on the enterprise were demonstrated; nevertheless, remanufacturing continues to face numerous challenges for its future expansion in China.

Facing uncertainty, complexity, and dynamics is a challenge for intelligent quality control for remanufacturing assembly. Researching and breaking through the disconnectedness between intelligence and remanufacturing assembly is a critical issue; it is one of the impasses that urgently needs to be breached to enhance the core competitiveness of remanufacturing enterprises in China. Compared with existing literature, our study has certain novelty, as shown in Table 1.

Table 1

Research gap and contribution research

Author(s)UncertaintyProcess methodsMulti-objective optimizationIntelligent controlData-driven multivariate control
Zahraei et al. (2018)[15]
Huang et al. (2020)[18]
Reddy et al. (2021)[20]
Liu et al. (2019)[27]
Chen et al. (2023)[29]
Liu et al. (2022)[34]
Guiras et al. (2018)[42]
Kurilova-Palisaitiene et al. (2018)[46]
Reddy and Kumar (2021)[49]
Song et al. (2023)[56]
Wurster et al. (2022)[57]
Andersen et al. (2022)[58]
This paper

RESEARCH GAPS

An in-depth study is required in the following areas to guarantee high-performance assembly in remanufacturing and enhance the quality of remanufactured products:

The data management of RAQ

At present, most scholars have explored the uncertainty of remanufacturing assembly systems from aspects such as remanufacturing assembly component information and remanufacturing quality information. However, they rarely pay attention to remanufacturing assembly quality data. The primary sources of quality data uncertainty for remanufacturing assembly include inconsistent standards, missing data, and higher dimensions. It is necessary to establish a data management system that conforms to the characteristics of quality data for remanufacturing assembly to integrate and proceed with the data and knowledge of a remanufacturing assembly system and unify management and analysis.

The evolution mechanism of RAQ

Relevant scholars have analyzed the quality optimization methods of the remanufacturing assembly process from the aspects of cost, quality, and process capability optimization in the remanufacturing stage, remanufacturing assembly group optimization, and multi-objective collaborative optimization of remanufacturing product cost and quality. Research has shown that the factors affecting the quality of remanufactured assembly are numerous and highly uncertain, resulting in an intricate process for initial assembly for the generation, transmission, and coupling of mistakes. This phenomenon complicates the process of traditional assembly quality models, accurately characterizing the evolution mechanism of the quality for remanufactured assembly. Therefore, it is necessary to mine production data of remanufacturing assembly, enhance the process by which the quality for remanufacturing assembly evolves, and offer theoretical backing for accurate control of that process.

The multivariate control of RAQ

In the context of the information age, the demand for intelligence in remanufacturing and assembly business has increased. Some scholars have explored intelligent control of remanufacturing assembly quality, achieving information plasticity in the remanufacturing process. Compared to traditional manufacturing assembly quality control, the quality control of remanufacturing assembly has more influencing factors, more complex processes, and higher customized requirements. It requires more data and knowledge to meet the diversified needs for adapting to different parts, achieve precise operation of quality control for remanufacturing assembly, support quality measurement, evaluation, and traceability of remanufacturing assembly, ensuring that the quality is stable and reliable for the remanufacturing assembly, and reducing or eliminating doubts and concerns of consumers about quality of remanufactured products.

It must be acknowledged that crucial enabling technology support for attaining high-quality development in the remanufacturing business assures high-performance assembly and enhances the quality of remanufactured products.

FUTURE RESEARCH DIRECTIONS

Different from the consistency, standardization, and scale of an original assembly system, the remanufacturing assembly process with multiple uncertain remanufactured parts combinations requires absolute precise control [Figure 2]. It can ensure that the quality of remanufactured products is not worse than that of new products[57,58].

Review and challenges for the remanufacturing assembly quality with uncertainty

Figure 2. Challenges for the RAQ with uncertainty. RAQ: Remanufactured assembly quality.

Based on the literature review and discussion above, we put forward potential research directions.

Multi-source data-driven quality control theory of remanufacturing assembly

To assure high-performance assembly in remanufacturing, increase remanufactured product quality, and address the high-dimensional uncertainty of remanufacturing assembly systems, future research should carry out comprehensive multi-source data fusion and analysis research. By using methods such as deep learning, feature extraction, and machine learning, key influencing factors and quality control flaws can be identified, which can optimize the quality control strategy for remanufacturing assembly, construct the data-driven quality evolution mechanism of remanufacturing assembly, and develop intelligent control processes for RAQ. These moves would create a theoretical and methodological framework for the quantitative assessment, the evolution mechanism, and intelligent management of RAQ, which supports the development of the remanufacturing industry at a high level of quality.

The research content of the quality control theory of remanufacturing assembly driven by multi-source data covers the following aspects:

Data perception and semantic representation of remanufacturing assembly quality: Construct a data perception interaction framework for remanufacturing assembly systems that integrates physical space and virtual space and study data interaction protocols for remanufacturing assembly quality. Digitally characterize the influencing factors, processes, and controls of remanufacturing assembly quality, construct a multi-source data conversion mechanism for remanufacturing assembly systems, and study unified semantic modeling and representation techniques for remanufacturing assembly quality data objects.

Remanufacturing assembly quality data chain: Propose a multidimensional, heterogeneous, missing, and dynamic method for processing and integrating remanufacturing assembly quality data. The quality data of remanufacturing assembly is associated with multiple sources according to temporal and process logic. Based on the remanufacturing assembly process data, the formation and evolution of remanufacturing assembly quality are described, and a remanufacturing assembly quality data chain is constructed to provide support for the evaluation and control of remanufacturing assembly quality, including expression, understanding, encapsulation, transmission, and sharing.

Remanufacturing assembly quality evaluation model: Starting from the logical relationship of “state fluctuation data change quality change”, this study investigates the functional boundaries of remanufacturing assembly quality elements and constructs a remanufacturing assembly quality loss index model based on Taguchi’s quality concept. In response to the problem of data fragmentation caused by cross stages in the remanufacturing assembly system, a multi-stage parameter estimation method based on deep neural networks for remanufacturing assembly processes is studied, and a data-driven quantitative evaluation model for remanufacturing assembly quality is established.

Studying the quality control theory of remanufacturing assembly driven by multiple data sources and information technology means achieving online monitoring and control of RAQ, which can help improve the quality level and production efficiency of remanufacturing assembly products and further promote the development of the remanufacturing industry.

Research on the evolution mechanism of RAQ

A quality information-sharing platform and collaborative mechanism should be established to promote the exchange and sharing of quality information among relevant stakeholders in the supply chain. Through cooperation, coordination, and joint efforts, a more comprehensive quality control system for remanufacturing and assembly should be constructed. Furthermore, a complete quality control standard system should be established to address the issue of inconsistent and incomplete quality control standards for remanufactured components[59]. The standard system should include inspection, evaluation, analysis, improvement, and other quality aspects for remanufacturing assembly. By strengthening the formulation of national and industry standards and establishing unified quality standards for remanufacturing assembly, it is possible to standardize how the remanufacturing sector develops.

Research on the Evolution Mechanism of RAQ includes the following specific contents.

Method for monitoring the quality elements of remanufacturing assembly: Establish a database of remanufacturing assembly quality elements, construct a remanufacturing assembly quality function house, convert customer requirements, quality element characteristics, and evolution process parameters into intuitive mathematical matrices, and identify key quality elements in the remanufacturing assembly system. Furthermore, a monitoring method for the fluctuation (random and abnormal) of remanufacturing assembly quality elements based on deep neural networks and Lean Six Sigma theory is proposed, providing support for remanufacturing assembly quality monitoring and traceability.

Modeling the Evolution Mechanism of Remanufacturing Assembly Quality: Given the many factors and complex mechanisms that affect the quality of remanufacturing assembly, methods such as neural networks, Bayesian networks, and support vector machines are proposed to predict and model the quality of remanufacturing assembly. Fuzzy association rule mining and recursive process mining algorithms are applied to analyze the historical data of remanufacturing assembly quality and the research results of remanufacturing experts from multiple perspectives, Construct a correlation model between quality control points and quality element indicators in the remanufacturing assembly process, study the evolution mechanism of remanufacturing assembly quality, and reveal the quality status, fluctuation trend, and cumulative effects of the remanufacturing assembly process.

A three-dimensional model of “problem data knowledge” for remanufacturing assembly quality: Based on database construction and mechanism research, a three-dimensional model of “problem data knowledge” for remanufacturing assembly quality is proposed, forming a closed-loop cycle of problems, data, and knowledge. A knowledge graph of remanufacturing assembly quality evolution based on multi-task graph neural networks is constructed, and the formation, maintenance, and decline laws of remanufacturing assembly performance are studied, realize data reuse and knowledge inheritance of remanufacturing assembly quality, and promote spiral upgrading and improvement of remanufacturing assembly quality.

Intelligent control and control platform for RAQ

Future remanufactured product quality control technology will typically be intelligent[60], including intelligent identification, intelligent detection, intelligent optimization, and intelligent monitoring of remanufactured assembly. It is necessary to research and develop intelligent quality control and management systems by using AI, Big data analysis, Internet of Things and other emerging technologies. Such a system can monitor the quality indicators during the remanufacturing assembly process in real-time. Through data analysis and prediction models[61], it can provide early warning and solve potential quality problems, thereby improving assembly quality and production efficiency. The goals of the system are to improve the production efficiency and quality control level of remanufacturing assembly, increase the comfort and value of remanufacturing production work, and attract more talent to participate in the growth of the remanufacturing industry. In the end, intelligence, humanization, and efficiency in the remanufacturing assembly can be achieved.

The following are some specific contents that may be included in this research field.

Abnormal feature recognition and control strategy in the remanufacturing assembly process: With the support of the remanufacturing assembly quality evolution mechanism and knowledge graph, explore the recognition method of remanufacturing assembly control curves and abnormal feature curves based on machine vision, identify and track parameter deviations in the remanufacturing assembly process, and predict the trend of abnormal features in the remanufacturing assembly process. Develop corresponding process operations and intelligent control strategies based on the knowledge graph and construct an abnormal feature library and control strategy library in the remanufacturing assembly process.

Intelligent control method for remanufacturing assembly quality based on component adaptation: Simulate and simulate the data of remanufacturing assembly systems based on the evolutionary mechanism, explore real-time monitoring, efficient analysis, and deep mining technology for dynamic data of remanufacturing assembly processes. Based on the remanufacturing assembly quality data chain, a multi-parameter model and solution method for the remanufacturing assembly process state space are studied. Based on deep reinforcement learning and quality evolution knowledge graph, an intelligent inference mode for precise control of remanufacturing assembly quality is constructed. A component-based intelligent control method for remanufacturing assembly quality is proposed, providing support for the multi-operation and precise control of remanufacturing assembly functional modules.

Design and development of an intelligent control platform for remanufacturing assembly quality: Based on virtual/physical systems, construct a heterogeneous network environment for remanufacturing assembly systems, explore seamless connection and integration technologies between the physical environment and virtual space of remanufacturing assembly systems, and study key technologies such as software and hardware topology structures, data knowledge fusion systems, and augmented reality control for remanufacturing assembly quality intelligent control; Taking a remanufacturing assembly workshop for a certain electromechanical product as the application object, based on its product, process, business, and production models and rules, the above theories, methods, and technologies are integrated and applied to the remanufacturing assembly quality intelligent control platform.

Promoting environmental friendliness and sustainable development

Future research should focus more on environmental protection and resource utilization issues in the remanufacturing assembly process, which can reduce energy consumption and emissions and promote the sustainable development of remanufacturing assembly. Considering economic, environmental, and social benefits, the remanufacturing assembly of mechanical and electrical products can be promoted towards a more environmentally friendly and sustainable direction. The following are some specific contents that may be included in this research field.

Resource recycling: Research methods for recycling, dismantling, and reusing waste materials and parts during the remanufacturing assembly process. This includes developing efficient recycling technologies, designing detachable and reusable product structures, and implementing effective resource recycling strategies to reduce resource waste and environmental pollution.

Green material selection and design: Research the selection and design methods of green materials in the remanufacturing assembly process, prioritizing the selection of environmentally friendly materials and technologies. Considering factors such as sustainability, renewability, and environmental impact during the life cycle of materials, develop corresponding material selection principles and design guidelines to reduce negative impacts on the environment.

Energy efficiency and carbon emission reduction: Research on energy management and carbon emission reduction methods for remanufacturing assembly systems. Improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions by optimizing energy utilization and production processes. Energy-saving equipment, intelligent control, and energy management technologies can be used to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions during remanufacturing and assembly.

Environmental risk assessment and management: Research on environmental risk assessment and management methods in the remanufacturing assembly process. By evaluating the remanufacturing assembly process and related environmental impacts, identify and manage potential environmental risks, take corresponding control and protective measures, and ensure the environmental safety and sustainability of the remanufacturing assembly system.

Environmental policy and economic incentives: Research, formulate, and implement environmental policies and economic incentives that adapt to remanufacturing. By means of taxation, subsidies, standards, and regulation, guide enterprises and individuals to take environmental actions, encourage the development and application of remanufacturing, and promote environmentally friendly and sustainable development.

The research content on promoting environmental friendliness and sustainable development of remanufacturing assembly systems involves resource recycling, green material selection and design, energy efficiency and carbon emission reduction, environmental risk assessment and management, as well as environmental policies and economic incentives. These contents aim to reduce resource waste and environmental pollution and promote the development of remanufacturing assembly systems in a more environmentally friendly and sustainable direction.

Strengthening the cultivation of remanufacturing talents

With the growth of the remanufacturing industry[62], the development of the remanufacturing business is hampered by the scarcity of remanufacturing skills. Therefore, it is urgent to establish a mechanism for cultivating remanufacturing talents. The research on strengthening the training of remanufacturing talents involves curriculum system design, teaching method innovation, practice base construction, teacher team construction, resource sharing and cooperation, as well as career development and Lifelong learning. These contents aim to cultivate talents with professional knowledge and practical skills in remanufacturing, meet the needs of the remanufacturing industry development, and promote the sustainable development of the remanufacturing industry. More importantly, it is necessary to establish incentive mechanisms to attract outstanding teachers and students to participate in cultivating remanufacturing talents. The industry should establish a mechanism for cultivating remanufacturing talents; doing so will also provide employment opportunities.

This article will be based on the theories of data mining and system modeling optimization, study the quantitative evaluation method of remanufacturing assembly quality driven by data, deeply explore the evolution mechanism and laws of remanufacturing assembly quality, and design and develop an intelligent control platform for remanufacturing assembly quality. On the one hand, it helps to promote resource recycling, reduce carbon emissions in the remanufacturing assembly process, and meet the development needs of sustainable industrial green development models in various countries. On the other hand, the stability of remanufacturing assembly systems will promote the improvement of remanufacturing product quality, satisfy the demands of consumers, improve the competitiveness of the remanufacturing industry, and promote the sustainable development of remanufacturing enterprises.

CONCLUSION

Remanufacturing is a crucial component of green manufacturing and a successful strategy for creating a society that conserves resources and respects the environment. Assembly is one of the crucial yet weak elements in ensuring the quality of remanufactured electromechanical goods. The current research of domestic and foreign scholars on the data management of RAQ and its evolutionary mechanism and multivariate mechanism needs to be explored in depth. Intelligent manufacturing is currently causing significant and profound changes in the development concept, manufacturing modes, and other aspects of the manufacturing industry, changing the technological infrastructure of the manufacturing sector as it becomes the foundation for the next industrial revolution. With the development of AI, intelligent detection, and other technologies in the future, remanufacturing assembly technology must achieve a transformation of intelligence, humanization, precision, and efficiency and achieve controllable, measurable, visible, and traceable scientific assembly, offering assurances regarding the safety, dependability, and quality of remanufactured items.

This small review paper is a further exploration and refinement based on the paper[10]. In the context of the rapid development of big data and AI technologies, remanufacturing assembly quality control faces greater challenges. In order to enhance the stability of remanufacturing assembly systems, improve the quality of remanufactured products, and realize the high-quality development of the remanufacturing industry, we propose potential research directions. These include the development of a multi-source data-driven quality control theory of remanufacturing assembly, research on the evolution mechanism of RAQ, the creation of intelligent control and control platforms for RAQ, promotion of environmental friendliness and sustainable development, and the reinforcement of efforts to cultivate remanufacturing talents. We will conduct in-depth explorations in the field of intelligent remanufacturing assembly to provide theoretical and methodological support for the high-quality development of China’s remanufacturing industry.

DECLARATIONS

Acknowledgments

The authors sincerely thank the editor and the anonymous reviewers for their constructive comments and suggestions that have greatly improved the manuscript.

Authors’ contributions

Conceptualization, writing-original draft preparation: Liu C

Resources: Zhu Q

Writing-review and editing: Mao H

All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

Availability of data and materials

All data generated or analyzed during this study are included in this published article.

Financial support and sponsorship

The first author is supported by the General Program of Anhui Natural Science Foundation (No. 2008085ME150), the Anhui Social Science Innovation and Development Research Project (2021CX069), Anhui Province University Innovation Group(2023AH010055), and Anhui Province Teaching and Research Project (2021jyxm1502, 2022kcsz287). The second author is supported by the Major Program (72192833/72192830) and Science Fund for Creative Research Groups (72088101) of National Natural Science Foundation of China.

Conflict of interest

All authors declared that there are no conflicts of interest.

Ethical approval and consent to participate

Not applicable.

Consent for publication

Not applicable.

Copyright

© The Author(s) 2023.

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Liu C, Zhu Q, Mao H. Review and challenges for the remanufacturing assembly quality with uncertainty. Green Manuf Open 2023;1:15. http://dx.doi.org/10.20517/gmo.2023.072701

AMA Style

Liu C, Zhu Q, Mao H. Review and challenges for the remanufacturing assembly quality with uncertainty. Green Manufacturing Open. 2023; 1(3): 15. http://dx.doi.org/10.20517/gmo.2023.072701

Chicago/Turabian Style

Liu, Conghu, Qinghua Zhu, Huiying Mao. 2023. "Review and challenges for the remanufacturing assembly quality with uncertainty" Green Manufacturing Open. 1, no.3: 15. http://dx.doi.org/10.20517/gmo.2023.072701

ACS Style

Liu, C.; Zhu Q.; Mao H. Review and challenges for the remanufacturing assembly quality with uncertainty. Green. Manuf. Open. 2023, 1, 15. http://dx.doi.org/10.20517/gmo.2023.072701

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