A rapid life cycle assessment method based on green features in supporting conceptual design

Abstract

A Rapid Life Cycle Assessment (RLCA) method based on Green features is proposed in order to solve the inherent limitations of conventional Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), such as long period, massive data requirement, which result in difficulties in supporting product conceptual design. Firstly, Green Feature is proposed in supporting the LCA in conceptual design, where a mapping relationship is established between green feature and design information to achieve the transformation from the design information to green features. Secondly, product conceptual design model is proposed based on modular configuration. The approximate products program will be obtained through retrieval and matching of each module of product using the knowledge base and case base. Thirdly, Intuitionistic Fuzzy theory and Monte Carlo method are respectively used to process the qualitative and quantitative uncertain information of green features in order to ensure the accuracy of the evaluation results. Besides, the appropriate life cycle impact assessment method is selected to complete the life cycle impact assessment and obtain the LCA results. Consequently, the RLCA of product design program is completed to support product green design. Finally, a fan of a ventilation system is studied as an example to verify the proposed RLCA theory.