Review of literature on disassembly algorithms and design for disassembly guidelines for product design

This paper endeavors to examine the history of product disassembly from the design perspective. The study of relevant literature indicates the presence of numerous disassembly evaluation criteria and methodologies that address only a part of the problem such as say disassembly sequence planning or economic analysis. Similarly, as far as design for disassembly is concerned, there is a plethora of literature on rules to improve recycling end-of-life components. These rules have not been mentioned in conjunction with one another. How these tips would function in mutual interaction has neither been elaborated nor studied. A systematic methodology to incorporate disassembly considerations in product design and enable quantitative evaluation of the design is conspicuous by its absence. Also, component parameters such as shape, size, weight, center of gravity and alignment that directly affect component/product design have not been examined in detail. This consideration might entail a radical changeover in product design.