Eco-innovative design approach: Integrating quality and environmental aspects in prioritizing and solving engineering problems

Abstract

This study proposes an eco-innovative design process taking into consideration quality and environmental aspects in prioritizing and solving technical engineering problems. This approach provides a synergy between the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), the non-quality matrix, the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ), morphological analysis and the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). In the sequence of these tools, LCA assesses the environmental impacts generated by the system. Then, for a better consideration of environmental aspects, a new tool is developed, the non-quality matrix, which defines the problem to be solved first from an environmental point of view. The TRIZ method allows the generation of new concepts and contradiction resolution. Then, the morphological analysis offers the possibility of extending the search space of solutions in a design problem in a systematic way. Finally, the AHP identifies the promising solution(s) by providing a clear logic for the choice made. Their usefulness has been demonstrated through their application to a case study involving a centrifugal spreader with spinning discs.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

eco-innovation / non-quality matrix / TRIZ / composted product spreading

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Acknowledgments

This study is part of the ECODEFI project (ECOconception et developpement de méthodologies de Fabrication Innovante de machines d’épandage—Ecodesign and development of innovative production methods for spreading machines) funded by the French National Research Agency within the framework of Eco-technologies and sustainable development program (PRECODD).The ECODEFI project focuses on ecodesign and eco-innovation applied to spreading technologies with the aim of addressing two major issues: (i) recycling of organic waste from industry and sewage and (ii) reducing the pollution risks in agro-ecosystems.

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