Despite the important role that manufacturing plays in GDP, especially in highly industrialised countries, it is also responsible for a huge consumption of raw materials and energy, and generates a large amount of waste. Value recovery activities such as remanufacturing, recycling and reuse along the entire value chain can significantly reduce the negative impacts of manufacturing and could create more than half a million jobs in the recycling industry alone across Europe.
The main problem is the lack of data during the life cycle of products, especially after they have been sold. This makes the necessary reuse and take-back processes very complicated or even impossible. Data is lost mainly due to different ownership of products, lack of transparency of product routes and use, and different practices or return processes.
Knowing where used products/parts are and in what conditions can help optimize the reverse logistics process, which involves managing returns, dealing with any leases or refurbishments, and potentially buying surplus goods and materials. Tracking, tracing, and condition monitoring can provide with real time data about the location and condition of products. After the return of products, the processes of inspection, sorting, disassembly/dismantling, testing, and repair/refurbish/remanufacturing/recycling start.
Digital technologies can significantly enhance circular manufacturing systems by improving efficiency, transparency, and adaptability throughout the product lifecycle.
The DiCiM project aims to develop and demonstrate integrated digital solutions that enable i) tracking, tracing, and condition monitoring of products during their use phase, ii) optimization of reverse logistics, and iii) supporting tools/solutions to enhance efficiency and responsiveness of operations during the value recovery phase. The aim is to develop and demonstrate a set of integrated digital solutions that include an open-access digital platform along with a range of support solutions for managers, engineers, technicians, and operators along the value chain to support the management and engineering activities in a Circular Economy
The focus is on material and energy savings by enabling the reuse of products, components, and materials in an efficient and responsive way.