Project targets

The main challenge addressed by the project is related to the unpredictability of the return channel for used core components. Currently, there is limited visibility into when customers will return core parts for remanufacturing and in what condition these components will be. This uncertainty leads to additional costs and operational pressures, as remanufacturing requires significant foresight in terms of manufacturing capacity, resource allocation, and spare parts availability.

The main research targets are:

• A business model related to services enabled by data sharing among consortium partners, as well as market reports and technology assessments related to remanufacturing.
• An AI model to improve the predictability of the return channel, along with the analytical results it produces and a decision-making visualization tool.
• Comprehensive utilization of data in remanufacturing network management and best practices in product design that take into account the requirements of remanufacturing.

The project will also produce the following outcomes:

• 3–4 joint demonstrations
• 8 scientific publications
• 3 theses related to company partner use cases
• 3 international researcher exchanges
• Multiple presentations in national and international events

As a co-innovation initiative, the project includes a joint research effort led by VTT and the University of Oulu, closely integrated with company-driven development projects. Within the company projects, the following solutions will be developed:

• A collaboration platform for the return channel network and a condition-monitoring application based on multi-actor data (Ponsse).
• A tire condition-monitoring application demonstrated on Ponsse machines (Nokian Tyres).
• Data-driven services supporting hydraulic pump remanufacturing (Masino‑Konaflex).
• An AI-enabled remanufacturing data management service (Kaltio Technologies).

These solutions will be demonstrated in close collaboration between industrial partners and research organizations.

International collaboration will be fostered through researcher exchange programs between Linköping University and the University of Oulu, as well as between VTT and the University of Tokyo. Additional international engagement includes participation in EFFRA / Made in Europe events and industrial trade fairs.

The project will also contribute to the development and application of Industry 4.0 standards, including the proposal of Asset Administration Shell (AAS) submodels tailored to remanufacturing.