Integrated automation system with PSO based scheduling for PCB remanufacturing plants

Flexibility and reconfigurability represent crucial challenges to be addressed to achieve sustainable remanufacturing processes, supporting efficient End-Of-Life treatment of heterogeneous mixes of post-use products. In this context, Printed Circuit Boards (PCB) represent a key target to be addressed. In this work, we propose an integrated automation system fostering the implementation of flexible PCB remanufacturing plants. In particular, we extend previous works by introducing on-line scheduling facilities. To this end, we developed a predictive-reactive algorithm by a Unified Particle Swarm Optimization form. The objective function combines the total weighted tardiness and the idle time of the rework machine to minimize energy consumption due to dissipations. We show the effectiveness of the proposed approach by application to the STIIMA-CNR De/Re-Manufacturing pilot plant, reporting improved performances compared to previously implemented scheduling rules.