ENERGY EFFICIENCY ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT OF PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

Based on rising energy prices, stricter regulations of carbon dioxide emissions and a rising awareness for our environment, it is not sufficient to optimize energy consumption only during the utilization of products; production, including assembly, has to become more energy efficient, too. In order to reduce the energy demand, the later energy consumption must be considered early in the development of the production system. In these phases, characteristics that are responsible for the later energy consumption are predetermined. A methodology for the development of assembly systems that is aiming at energy efficiency is currently being developed by the authors. Both lifecycles, of product and the corresponding production system are examined and correlations worked out.