Development of an automated and intelligently networked disassembly based on the example of circular smart meters

Abstract

In Germany, approximately 48 million installed water meters are replaced every six years due to the Measurement and Certification Ordinance. This leads to ecological and economic challenges and results in considerable consumption of raw materials. For economic reasons, most manufacturers now use plastic hydraulic housings.

However, to conserve resources, it is advisable to use sustainable materials (e.g. brass). In addition, the mechanical service life of the devices is much longer than the calibration period, so technical remanufacturing is a good way to close the loop in terms of the circular economy (CE). Nevertheless, this is hampered by current product architectures and manual disassembly processes in large-scale implementation. This article presents a research approach for the development of automated and intelligently networked disassembly of water meters. Based on Potting's 9R framework, a mixed-methods approach is pursued which combines literature research, process modeling, and evaluation in an industrial use case. A conceptual digital twin is used to optimize the disassembly process, including sorting, condition assessment, automated disassembly, cleaning, and component remanufacturing. The expected results are technical and design guidelines for future, disassemblable water meters which enable economic recycling and contribute to the EU's sustainability goals under the Green Deal and the Ecodesign Regulation.