Improving green product design with closed-loop product recovery information

Abstract

In this paper the closed loop product design methodology and framework are presented, followed by a case study, which uses a refrigerator reciprocating compressor to illustrate the green concept generating from EoL information to design greener product. This methodology captures the information at end-of-life (EoL) and feeding back to design phase in making a greener product. With complete understanding of EoL product status, it enables original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to develop technology diversely and at the same time rapidly incorporating environmental concept in part of the product chain. The EoL product status is quantified and used as the reference for upcoming design concept. Thereby, a greater reliable product could be achieved by utilizing appropriate material or design in particular product. This resulted in improved product design as an inherent loop in product life cycle. ©(2014) Trans Tech Publications, Switzerland.