Processes

Editorial

Jump to: Research

5 pages, 181 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Special Issue on “Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management”

by Bilian Sun, Zhigang Jiang, Yan Wang and Wei Cai

Processes 2023, 11(12), 3294; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11123294 - 25 Nov 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1061

Abstract

Manufacturing plays a vital role in the global economy, as it drives economic growth and development [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

Research

Jump to: Editorial

21 pages, 9540 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Development of an Induction Heating Process for a Jewelry Factory: Experiments and Multiphysics

by Thodsaphon Jansaengsuk, Sorathorn Pattanapichai and Jatuporn Thongsri

Processes 2023, 11(3), 858; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11030858 - 13 Mar 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2436

Abstract

This article reports a successful development of the induction heating process (IHP) in a jewelry factory based on experiments and multiphysics consisting of electromagnetic and thermal simulations. First, two experiments were set to measure essential parameters for result validation and multiphysics boundary condition [...] Read more.

This article reports a successful development of the induction heating process (IHP) in a jewelry factory based on experiments and multiphysics consisting of electromagnetic and thermal simulations. First, two experiments were set to measure essential parameters for result validation and multiphysics boundary condition settings. Then, the essential parameters were applied to multiphysics, and both simulation results revealed heat transfer, magnetic flux density (B) generated by the coil, and temperature (T) of the product. B and T were consistent with the experimental results and theory, confirming the reliability of the multiphysics and methodology. After that, all simulation results were analyzed to assess and optimize IHP in terms of the number of coil turns (N), positional placement of the product (P), and coil thickness (Th). Multiphysics revealed that the current operating condition with N = 3 is proper; however, the IHP can be improved more with coil and operating condition optimizations. Finally, completing the optimizations, decreasing 40% of Th with N = 6, and the same P, increased B on the product by 21.62%, leading to IHP efficacy enhancement. The research findings are the optimum coil model and methodology for developing the IHP, which were practically employed in the jewelry factory. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2835 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comfort Optimization of the Active Collision Avoidance Control System of Electric Vehicles for Green Manufacturing

by Ning Li, Yingshuai Liu, Tengfei Zhang, Yongqi Yang, Chunlin Wang and Xinzhi Wang

Processes 2023, 11(2), 485; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11020485 - 6 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1751

Abstract

The vehicle model was built based on MATLAB/Simulink and Carsim, and the multi-objective active collision avoidance control algorithm considering safety and comfort was established based on a model predictive control (MPC) algorithm. The vehicle active collision avoidance control system for comfort and safety [...] Read more.

The vehicle model was built based on MATLAB/Simulink and Carsim, and the multi-objective active collision avoidance control algorithm considering safety and comfort was established based on a model predictive control (MPC) algorithm. The vehicle active collision avoidance control system for comfort and safety was studied by simulation and experimentation. The results show that the active collision avoidance control system based on an MPC algorithm can follow the vehicle under different working conditions and ensure the safety and comfort in the process of following the vehicle while meeting the requirements of the active collision avoidance control system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 1733 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimal Manufacturer Recycling Strategy under EPR Regulations

by Jian Cao, Xuan Gong, Jiawen Lu and Zhaolong Bian

Processes 2023, 11(1), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11010166 - 5 Jan 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1559

Abstract

Under extended producer responsibility (EPR) regulations, trade-in programs allow manufacturers to play a vital role in recycling. Simultaneously, third-party recyclers (TPRs) can use their recycling network to compensate for manufacturers having only a single recycling channel, which increases the competition between them. To [...] Read more.

Under extended producer responsibility (EPR) regulations, trade-in programs allow manufacturers to play a vital role in recycling. Simultaneously, third-party recyclers (TPRs) can use their recycling network to compensate for manufacturers having only a single recycling channel, which increases the competition between them. To study whether companies should authorize TPRs, we constructed and analyzed a Stackelberg game model with trade-in programs under EPR regulations by focusing on three different closed-loop supply chain (CLSC) structures and differentiating consumer categories. The analytical results showed that when the government does not act as the decision maker, the optimal product selling price of the manufacturer does not change under each strategy. Otherwise, the manufacturer’s decision is affected by the cost structure and amount of subsidy, as well as funds determined by the government under the optimal environmental benefit. Furthermore, when the residual value coefficient of the used products is high, manufacturers authorize TPRs to recycle used products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 3661 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Correlation Research between Asymmetry Coefficient of Gondola Car Body and Stress Distribution of Cross Bearer Weld

by Wenfei Liu, Li Zhang, Chen Bi, Zhixiong Gao and Xiongtao Pu

Processes 2023, 11(1), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11010098 - 29 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1284

Abstract

In order to find out the root cause of cross bearer welds’ cracks in general-purpose gondola cars, the relationship between asymmetric structure and stress distribution is studied in this paper. Firstly, the concept of asymmetry coefficient and stress distribution cluster is proposed, and [...] Read more.

In order to find out the root cause of cross bearer welds’ cracks in general-purpose gondola cars, the relationship between asymmetric structure and stress distribution is studied in this paper. Firstly, the concept of asymmetry coefficient and stress distribution cluster is proposed, and the asymmetric coefficients’ calculation methods of independent and dependent variables are given, respectively, in two-dimensional space. Secondly, according to the different positions of side column 1 and side column 2, 30 local models are established, the cross bearer weld stresses are extracted after finite element simulation, and the stress distribution clusters of cross bearer weld stresses are formed. Finally, the asymmetry coefficients of the side columns are calculated, and the correlation between the positions of the side columns and the weld stresses is studied using the methods of Pearson correlation coefficient and complex correlation coefficient. The results show that the correlation between the stress of cross bearer weld 2 and the positions of the side columns is much higher than that between the stress of cross bearer weld 1 and the positions of the side columns. Meanwhile, it shows that the method presented in this paper is feasible and effective for the analysis and research of asymmetric structures. These combined with the calculation method of the correlation coefficient. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 2114 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Assessing Long-Term Medical Remanufacturing Emissions with Life Cycle Analysis

by Julia A. Meister, Jack Sharp, Yan Wang and Khuong An Nguyen

Processes 2023, 11(1), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11010036 - 24 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4078 | Correction

Abstract

The unsustainable take-make-dispose linear economy prevalent in healthcare contributes 4.4% to global Greenhouse Gas emissions. A popular but not yet widely-embraced solution is to remanufacture common single-use medical devices like electrophysiology catheters, significantly extending their lifetimes by enabling a circular life cycle. To [...] Read more.

The unsustainable take-make-dispose linear economy prevalent in healthcare contributes 4.4% to global Greenhouse Gas emissions. A popular but not yet widely-embraced solution is to remanufacture common single-use medical devices like electrophysiology catheters, significantly extending their lifetimes by enabling a circular life cycle. To support the adoption of catheter remanufacturing, we propose a comprehensive emission framework and carry out a holistic evaluation of virgin manufactured and remanufactured carbon emissions with Life Cycle Analysis (LCA). We followed ISO modelling standards and NHS reporting guidelines to ensure industry relevance. We conclude that remanufacturing may lead to a reduction of up to 60% per turn (−1.92 kg CO

_{2}

eq, burden-free) and 57% per life (−1.87 kg CO

_{2}

eq, burdened). Our extensive sensitivity analysis and industry-informed buy-back scheme simulation revealed long-term emission reductions of up to 48% per remanufactured catheter life (−1.73 kg CO

_{2}

eq). Our comprehensive results encourage the adoption of electrophysiology catheter remanufacturing, and highlight the importance of estimating long-term emissions in addition to traditional emission metrics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 1551 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Smart Technology Prioritization for Sustainable Manufacturing in Emergency Situation by Integrated Spherical Fuzzy Bounded Rationality Decision-Making Approach

by Chia-Nan Wang, Thuy-Duong Thi Pham, Nhat-Luong Nhieu and Ching-Chien Huang

Processes 2022, 10(12), 2732; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10122732 - 18 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1728

Abstract

The delays and disruptions during the pandemic have awakened interest in the sustainability and resilience of production systems to emergencies. In that context, the deployment of smart technologies has emerged as an almost mandatory development orientation to ensure the stability of manufacturing. The [...] Read more.

The delays and disruptions during the pandemic have awakened interest in the sustainability and resilience of production systems to emergencies. In that context, the deployment of smart technologies has emerged as an almost mandatory development orientation to ensure the stability of manufacturing. The core value of smart technologies is to reduce the dependence on human labor in production systems. Thereby, the negative impacts caused by emergency situations are mitigated. However, the implementation of smart technologies in a specific production system that already exists requires a high degree of suitability. Motivated by this fact, this study proposes an integrated spherical fuzzy bounded rationality decision-making approach, which is composite of the spherical fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (SF DEMATEL) and the spherical fuzzy regret theory-based combined compromise solution (R-SF CoCoSo) method. The proposed approach reflects both the ambiguities and psychological behaviors of decision-makers in prioritization problems. It was applied to prioritize seven smart technologies for manufacturing in Vietnam. The results show that reliability, costs, and maturity are the most important criteria for choosing smart technology which is suitable for an existing production system in Vietnam. Our findings seem to suggest that the automatic inspection, remote machine operation, and robots are the most suitable smart technologies to stabilize and sustain production in Vietnam for emergency situations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

34 pages, 3815 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Implementation of Industrial Traceability Systems: A Case Study of a Luxury Metal Pieces Manufacturing Company

by Guilherme Fortuna and Pedro Dinis Gaspar

Processes 2022, 10(11), 2444; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10112444 - 18 Nov 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5162

Abstract

Technological advances have shown an accentuated growth trend, which is directly proportional to the quality of life in today’s society. As a result, the business market is becoming increasingly competitive and customers are becoming more demanding, forcing companies to look for new tools [...] Read more.

Technological advances have shown an accentuated growth trend, which is directly proportional to the quality of life in today’s society. As a result, the business market is becoming increasingly competitive and customers are becoming more demanding, forcing companies to look for new tools and adopt new work methodologies to improve their flexibility, effectiveness and efficiency, ensuring a better response to market needs. In this context, the tools for tracking objects, totally or partially automatic, are considered essential technologies to all kinds of analysis and the treatment of business data, providing several benefits to companies, including waste reduction, identification of bottlenecks, cost reduction, improvement of product quality and the entire flow of business information. A case study of an industrial company specializing in machining, polishing and galvanoplasty of metallic alloys, small size pieces to be incorporated in luxury fashion accessories, is presented. Derived from the difficulties underlying the implementation of a traceability system supported by identification technologies and obtaining data in an automatic way, the focus of the study is based on the identification of a base model, with sequential steps, which allows any industrial company to adapt these types of technological tools and systems. Based on the pillars of knowledge acquired through a bibliographic review on the subject, as well as on the recognition of the whole production flow, this work makes use of an implementation model already developed, studied and tested, supported by a project viability analysis measuring the benefits obtained with the results found after the respective implementation. Production performance increased with the implementation of a traceability system, as the time worked throughout the flow decreased. Production performance prior to implementation was around 98.6%. Applying a Kaizen (continuous improvement) strategy and based on the times collected in the pilot test, this indicator rose by 0.5%, obtaining a production performance of 99.1%, corresponding to an annual increase of 99 pieces. The integration of a robust and simple traceability system supported by automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) technologies in this industrial environment allowed for automated data collection and processing. In addition to the financial and productive benefits, this Industry 4.0 implementation encompasses a huge medium- to long-term impact in functional and monitoring terms, providing enormous aid to the management of production flows. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2537 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Data-Driven Evaluation of the Synergetic Development of Regional Carbon Emissions in the Yangtze River Delta

by Yuxia Guo, Fagang Hu, Jun Xie, Conghu Liu, Yaliu Yang, Heping Ding and Xue Wu

Processes 2022, 10(11), 2236; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10112236 - 31 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1425

Abstract

Evaluating the degree of coordination among regional carbon emission systems is key to achieving an earlier carbon peak and carbon neutrality. However, quantifying the co-evolution of carbon emissions among regions is challenging. Therefore, we propose a data-driven method for evaluating the synergetic development [...] Read more.

Evaluating the degree of coordination among regional carbon emission systems is key to achieving an earlier carbon peak and carbon neutrality. However, quantifying the co-evolution of carbon emissions among regions is challenging. Therefore, we propose a data-driven method for evaluating the synergetic development of the regional carbon emission composite system. First, the proposed method employs relevant data to calculate the carbon emissions and carbon emission intensity of each subsystem within the region to describe the temporal trends. The inverse entropy weight method is then used to assign weight to each order parameter of the subsystem for data processing. Then, we perform synergetic development assessment of the composite system to measure the order degree of each subsystem, the degree of synergy among subsystems, and the overall synergetic degree of the temporal evolution of carbon emissions between regions. Finally, the evaluation results can be used to suggest measures for the regional coordinated reduction of carbon emissions. In this study, we used data from the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region from 2010 to 2019 to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the method. The results show that there is still a long way to go to reduce carbon emissions in the Yangtze River Delta region. Economic development still relies heavily on fossil energy consumption, and the regional carbon emission reduction synergy is not high. This study provides theoretical and methodological support for regional carbon emission reduction. Moreover, the proposed method can be applied to other regions to explore low-carbon and sustainable development options. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 9164 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Development of Welding Tips for the Reflow Soldering Process Based on Multiphysics

by Jatuporn Thongsri and Thodsaphon Jansaengsuk

Processes 2022, 10(11), 2191; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10112191 - 25 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2019

Abstract

A reflow soldering process (RSP) is generally implemented in advanced manufacturing factories for welding small electronic components together to create a product using heat generated at the welding tip (WT). Improper WT design and operating conditions may lead to defects in some products; [...] Read more.

A reflow soldering process (RSP) is generally implemented in advanced manufacturing factories for welding small electronic components together to create a product using heat generated at the welding tip (WT). Improper WT design and operating conditions may lead to defects in some products; therefore, optimizing both is immensely significant in developing the RSP. Accordingly, this article proposes a successful RSP development based on multiphysics in a hard disk drive factory consisting of transient thermal-electric and structural simulations. First, a new shape series WT was designed, and a conventional shape, parallel WT, was considered as a case study. Then, they were assembled and experimented with the RSP actual operating conditions to collect essential data. Next, the heat transfer was determined using a transient thermal-electric simulation (TES). The simulation results showed uneven WT temperatures depending on applied voltages, time, and shapes, which were consistent with the experimental results. The higher the applied voltage, the greater the temperature generated at the WT. Finally, after using TES results as loads, the structural simulation showed WT total deformations, which could be consistent with actually occurring defects. The findings from this research are a new design of series WT and proper multiphysics methodology for developing the RSP. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2202 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Disassembly Sequence Planning for Green Remanufacturing Using an Improved Whale Optimisation Algorithm

by Dexin Yu, Xuesong Zhang, Guangdong Tian, Zhigang Jiang, Zhiming Liu, Tiangang Qiang and Changshu Zhan

Processes 2022, 10(10), 1998; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10101998 - 3 Oct 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2102

Abstract

Currently, practical optimisation models and intelligent solution algorithms for solving disassembly sequence planning are attracting more and more attention. Based on the importance of energy efficiency in product disassembly and the trend toward green remanufacturing, this paper proposes a new optimisation model for [...] Read more.

Currently, practical optimisation models and intelligent solution algorithms for solving disassembly sequence planning are attracting more and more attention. Based on the importance of energy efficiency in product disassembly and the trend toward green remanufacturing, this paper proposes a new optimisation model for the energy-efficient disassembly sequence planning. The minimum energy consumption is used as the evaluation criterion for disassembly efficiency, so as to minimise the energy consumption during the dismantling process. As the proposed model is a complex optimization problem, called NP-hard, this study develops a new extension of the whale optimisation algorithm to allow it to solve discrete problems. The whale optimisation algorithm is a recently developed and successful meta-heuristic algorithm inspired by the behaviour of whales rounding up their prey. We have improved the whale optimisation algorithm for predation behaviour and added a local search strategy to improve its performance. The proposed algorithm is validated with a worm reducer example and compared with other state-of-the-art and recent metaheuristics. Finally, the results confirm the high solution quality and efficiency of the proposed improved whale algorithm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 5487 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Low-Carbon Collaboration in the Supply Chain under Digital Transformation: An Evolutionary Game-Theoretic Analysis

by Gang Li, Hu Yu and Mengyu Lu

Processes 2022, 10(10), 1958; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10101958 - 28 Sep 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3407

Abstract

In the face of the challenges posed by the need to drastically decrease carbon emissions, all agents in the supply chain need to strengthen low-carbon collaboration with the support of digital transformation. This study sets up a low-carbon collaboration evolutionary game model of [...] Read more.

In the face of the challenges posed by the need to drastically decrease carbon emissions, all agents in the supply chain need to strengthen low-carbon collaboration with the support of digital transformation. This study sets up a low-carbon collaboration evolutionary game model of the supply chain based on benefit sharing by introducing digital transformation. The equilibrium-point stability of the supply chain is then analyzed under two separate conditions—i.e., less and more government rewards and punishments compared to supply-chain agents’ strategic risk cost. Furthermore, based on the evolutionary game model, this study draws the system dynamics (SD) flow diagram to analyze the research problem quantitatively. The main results show that: (1) low-carbon benefit-driven effects promotes collaboration benefit sharing, thereby increasing the probability of low-carbon collaboration; (2) digital transformation is an essential regulator of low-carbon collaboration in the supply chain and can amplify the low-carbon benefit-driven effect; (3) collaboration benefit sharing can perfectly coordinate the vertical supply chain under low-carbon collaboration; and (4) government support and management are critical links in the low-carbon collaboration formation path of the supply chain. This research provides theoretical support for low-carbon collaboration in the supply chain under digital transformation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1362 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Emergy-Based Sustainability Method for Mechanical Production Process—A Case Study

by Yaliu Yang, Cuixia Zhang and Cui Wang

Processes 2022, 10(9), 1692; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10091692 - 26 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1494

Abstract

To promote the sustainability of mechanical production process, this study proposes an emergy-based sustainability evaluation method to evaluate the resource utilization and environmental pollution of the mechanical production process. Firstly, this study constructs the sustainability evaluation index system of the mechanical production process [...] Read more.

To promote the sustainability of mechanical production process, this study proposes an emergy-based sustainability evaluation method to evaluate the resource utilization and environmental pollution of the mechanical production process. Firstly, this study constructs the sustainability evaluation index system of the mechanical production process from the perspectives of economy and environment. Secondly, an emergy analysis method-based sustainable evaluation of the mechanical production process is constructed. Finally, taking the gear manufacturing process as an example, the method is tested. The results show that this method can effectively quantify and identify the sustainability of the gear manufacturing process and provide effective feedback to improve the process. The resulting improvements can aid in reconsidering the economic and environmental factors, improving the production efficiency and the sustainability of the production process, and reducing the difficulty of operating the lathe in the production process. This study provides method support for the sustainability evaluation of mechanical production process and decision support for its improvement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1931 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimum Design of Square Blank Dimension with Low Energy Consumption and Low Cost for Milling Based on Business Compass Concept

by Yongmao Xiao, Xiaoqin Liu, Ruping Wang, Hao Zhang, Jieyun Li and Jincheng Zhou

Processes 2022, 10(8), 1514; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10081514 - 1 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1530

Abstract

Blank is the foundation for manufacturing enterprise production. The change of blank dimension is the fundamental purpose of product processing, and blank dimension change process dramatically affects the cost and energy consumption of blank production and use process. Therefore, the blank dimension design [...] Read more.

Blank is the foundation for manufacturing enterprise production. The change of blank dimension is the fundamental purpose of product processing, and blank dimension change process dramatically affects the cost and energy consumption of blank production and use process. Therefore, the blank dimension design is of great significance for the sustainable development of enterprises. Based on the management concept of the business compass, combined with the enterprise development plan and production situation, this article established a blank dimension optimization design model, which can design the blank dimension according to enterprise demand. The model took the energy consumption and cost of the blank production and used process as the optimization objectives, and was solved by the gray wolf algorithm. The model was verified by analyzing the machining process of a fixture cavity. By comparison with standard square blank dimensions, the research results showed that the optimized square blank dimension can meet the objective of saving energy and reducing costs, it can also fully coordinate economy and resource consumption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 4345 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Multi-Equipment Collaborative Scheduling Algorithm under Composite Constraints

by Peibo Kang, Haisheng Deng and Xiuqin Wang

Processes 2022, 10(6), 1171; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10061171 - 10 Jun 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1870

Abstract

Multi-equipment multi-process frequent scheduling under complex constraints is at the root of a large number of idle time fragments and transport waiting time in multi-equipment processes. To improve equipment utilization and reduce idle transportation time, a production process optimization scheduling algorithm with “minimum [...] Read more.

Multi-equipment multi-process frequent scheduling under complex constraints is at the root of a large number of idle time fragments and transport waiting time in multi-equipment processes. To improve equipment utilization and reduce idle transportation time, a production process optimization scheduling algorithm with “minimum processing time and minimum transportation time” is proposed. Taking into account factors such as product priority, equipment priority, process priority, and overall task adjustment, the scheduling optimization is carried out through a hybrid algorithm combining a one-dimensional search algorithm and a dual NSGA-II algorithm. Compared with other algorithms, the scheduling algorithm proposed in this article not only shortens the minimum processing time but also strives to maximize the utilization rate of each piece of equipment, reducing the processing time of the enterprise by 8% or more, while also reducing the overall transportation time and indirectly reducing costs. The superiority of this algorithm is verified through practice, showing that that the complexity of the scheduling process is lower, and it is feasible in actual operation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 4511 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Point-to-Point Trajectory Planning Algorithm for Industrial Robots Based on a Locally Asymmetrical Jerk Motion Profile

by Zhijun Wu, Jiaoliao Chen, Tingting Bao, Jiacai Wang, Libin Zhang and Fang Xu

Processes 2022, 10(4), 728; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10040728 - 9 Apr 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3385

Abstract

Suitable trajectories with minimum execution time are essential for an industrial robot to enhance productivity in pick and place operations. A novel point-to-point trajectory planning algorithm (PTPA) is proposed to improve the motion efficiency of industrial robots. The jerk profile for a trajectory [...] Read more.

Suitable trajectories with minimum execution time are essential for an industrial robot to enhance productivity in pick and place operations. A novel point-to-point trajectory planning algorithm (PTPA) is proposed to improve the motion efficiency of industrial robots. The jerk profile for a trajectory model is determined by five intervals and the jerk constraint. According to the kinematic constraints and two shape coefficients, a velocity threshold and three displacement thresholds are calculated for an individual joint to transfer the proposed jerk motion profile into four specific profiles. The optimal trajectory model of the joint is developed for the minimum-time and jerk-continuous trajectory via the performance evaluation with the input displacement and three displacement thresholds. Moreover, time-based motion synchronization for all joints is taken into account in PTPA to decrease unnecessary burdens on the actuators. The simulations illustrate that the execution time by PTPA is more efficient than that by other techniques. The experiments of a point-to-point application on a real six-axis industrial robot show that the absolute errors at the end of the motion for all joints are within 0.04°. These results prove that PTPA can be an effective point-to-point trajectory planner for industrial robots Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1786 KiB

Open AccessArticle

LRP-Based Design of Sustainable Recycling Network for Electric Vehicle Batteries

by Xiaping Hu, Wei Yan, Xumei Zhang, Zhaohui Feng, Yan Wang, Baosheng Ying and Hua Zhang

Processes 2022, 10(2), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10020273 - 29 Jan 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3867

Abstract

Driven by energy shortages and climate concerns, the electric vehicles are popular around the world with their energy-saving and environmentally friendly advantages. As electric vehicle batteries (EVBs) mainly use lithium batteries, and the batteries’ performance decreases with the increase of charging times, a [...] Read more.

Driven by energy shortages and climate concerns, the electric vehicles are popular around the world with their energy-saving and environmentally friendly advantages. As electric vehicle batteries (EVBs) mainly use lithium batteries, and the batteries’ performance decreases with the increase of charging times, a large number of batteries are entering the end-of-life (EoL) stage. Recycling and reuse of EVBs are effective ways to reduce environmental pollution and promote resources utilization and is now a top priority. Building a recycling network is the foundation of battery recycling. However, there are few studies on battery recycling networks and the construction of recycling networks is expensive, which impedes the sustainable development of electric vehicles. Based on this, recycling network design is critical for EVB recycling. This paper first analyzes three strategies to deal with used batteries: remanufacturing, reuse, and recycling materials. Secondly, an EVB recycling network model is developed with the objective of minimizing the total cost and carbon emissions. The model solves the problem of siting the centers in the network and the vehicle routing in the recycling process. Finally, the model was applied to GEM (a Chinese company dedicated to circular economy) and validated using a greedy algorithm. In addition, the results show that logistics costs and operating costs account for the majority of the recycling network total expense, at 48.45% and 31%, respectively. Therefore, if companies want to further reduce the cost of EVB recycling, they should reduce logistics costs and operating costs. In summary, this paper provides a decision-making approach for EVB recycling enterprises to carry out recycling and reuse, and offers advice on how to promote the sustainable economic and environmental development of the electric vehicle battery industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Supply Chain Management

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (17 papers)

Editorial

Research

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI