Development of a model for assessing the repairability of products in the concept phase
Consumer electronics and electrical products have a substantial environmental footprint, largely due to the energy-intensive manufacturing of semiconductor components and required materials, which produce significant CO2 emissions. This paper presents an assessment system designed to evaluate which components and processes contribute most to the ecological footprint. By integrating Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs), the system identifies critical components and links them to specific stages in the product development process, enabling targeted improvements in repairability and resource efficiency. Through connections between the functional and part structures, manufacturers can address environmental impacts at a detailed level.The system benefits multiple stakeholders by offering actionable recommendations: consumers gain access to more repairable and durable products, manufacturers receive guidance to enhance sustainability and align with future regulations, and legislators can use the insights to promote resource reuse. By encouraging manufacturers to rethink product design and prioritize reusability, this system supports a shift toward circular economy principles. Its implementation is a significant step toward reducing energy consumption and resource waste, ensuring future generations have the resources to meet their needs.
Authors
- Peter Gust (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0498-0491)
- Karsten Schmidtseifer
- Leandra Carlotta Apolte
Institutions
- University of Wuppertal (DE)
Publication Details
- Published
- 2025-04-20
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1109/sustech63138.2025.11025689
- Citations
- 1
- Primary Topic
- Technology Assessment and Management
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 1.30