Application of analytical network process for analysis of product design characteristics of lean remanufacturing system: a case study

The modern manufacturing systems are adopting with lean practices to ensure value addition and waste elimination. Also, product recovery options are found to be vital. Appropriate product design characteristics are identified, and their prioritization is framed as decision-making problem with multiple criteria. Analytical network process is used as solution methodology. The objective of the study is to formulate multi-criteria decision making problem for assessment of lean remanufacturing product design characteristics. The priority order of lean remanufacturing operations is obtained. The study is exemplified with a case conducted with reference to remanufacture of an automotive component. The priority order of criteria is Disassembly > Cleaning > Inspection > Remanufacturing > Reassembly. The inferences desired from the study would facilitate cleaner manufacturing practices. Sensitivity analysis is conducted and practical validity of the method has been tested with an industrial case study.