Multi-method simulation modelling of circular manufacturing systems for enhanced decision-making

Circular manufacturing systems (CMS) constitute complex value networks comprising a large and diverse set of stakeholders that collaborate to close the loop of products through multiple lifecycles. Complex systems modelling and simulation play a crucial role in providing quantitative and qualitative insights into the behaviour of such systems. In particular, multi-method simulation modelling that combines agent-based, discrete-event, and system dynamics simulation methods is considered more suitable to model and simulate CMS as it allows to capture their complex and dynamic nature. This paper provides a step-by-step approach on how to build a CMS multi-method simulation model in order to assess their economic, environmental, and technical performance for enhanced decision-making. To model and simulate CMS three main elements need to be considered: • A multi-method model architecture where the CMS stakeholders with heterogeneous characteristics are modelled individually as autonomous agents using agent-based, discrete-event, and system dynamics. • An agent environment defined by a Geographic Information System (GIS) to establish connections based on agents’ geographic location. • The product journey resulting from the product's interaction with various CMS stakeholders in the circular value network is traced throughout its multiple lifecycles.