Simulation modelling of reverse logistics networks

Importance of closed-loop supply chain relationships for product remanufacturing

“…van Nunen and Zuidwijk (2004) Another important characteristic in the closed-loop supply chain is the need for a wellfunctioning reversed logistic network (Guide, 2000). For example, reversed logistic networks for product recovery have been modelled by (Kara et al, 2007), with the aim to calculate the total collecting costs in a predictable manner. Kim et al (2006) (Jacobsson, 2000).…”

International Advisory Board

“…Ravi, Ravi, and Tiwari [46] presented an ANP based decision model to analyze the options in RL for end-of-life computers and link them to the determinants, dimensions and enablers of RL. Kara, Rugrungruang, and Kaebernick [47] have modeled the collection of end-of-life electrical appliances with high degree of uncertainty in quality and quantity of the returned products. The authors suggest that low costs can be achieved when local councils act as collectors.…”

“…For example, Biehl et al [64] took potential design variables such as the number of collection centres, collection rates, type and set up of information technology for forecasting and control systems, recycling rates and return rates into account in order to assess how the US carpet industry would able to meet a 40% diversion from landfills by 2012. In addition, Kara et al [65] considered design variables including the number and type of participants in the system, number and location of the disassembly centre, collection points, return rate and characteristics of the material flow and product characteristics in order to design a cost effective reverse logistics networks for taking back end-of-life white goods. It can be seen that both papers considered many realistic characteristic of reverse logistics network and return uncertainty into account.…”

“…In summary, both papers addressed a single-item flow with multi-period. Biehl et al [64] investigated closed-loop and two-level network structure while Kara et al [65] considered open-loop and multi-level network structure. Regarding the model results, both simulation models were able to provide several crucial managerial recommendations for the improvement of reverse logistics network.…”

“…Rogers and Tibben-Lembke [78] characterize good gate keeping as aking the entire reverse flow characteristic in the closed-loop supply chain is the need for a well-functioning reversed logistic network [67]. For example, reversed logistic networks for product recovery have been modeled by Kara et al [65], with the aim to calculate the total collecting costs in a predictable manner. Kim et al [79] also present a closed-loop supply chain model for remanufacturing to minimize the total cost of remanufacturing.…”