An exploratory study to integrate feasibility into the eco-design process: An approach to link design and environmental parameters.

Abstract : To support environmental practices in industrial design, many software tools have been developed. These tools aim to provide environmental information in a decision context for designers and environmental experts. Although Life-Cycle Analysis tools can provide relevant and precise information, the question of feasibility remains crucial in proposing realistic solutions. In our study, we built a database linking design and environmental parameters in order to facilitate the consideration of technical, organizational and economic constrains in eco-design. We used knowledge engineering techniques, applied to a collection of documents from a young company, to identify the relevant design parameters to implement.