ECO-EVALUATION OF TECHNICAL SYSTEMS IN THE CONCEPTUAL PHASE

In conceptual design phase, description of the final product solution is abstract, and there is the lack of information on product's environmental performance throughout its life cycle. Quantitative environmental assessment methods are used in the lesser extent during conceptual design due to lack of knowledge about future life cycle of the product and embodiment design. Qualitative approach to eco-evaluation is needed in early design phases and support for original design concepts. Novel eco-evaluation approach is proposed for comparison of environmental friendliness of technical system's conceptual solutions. The approach is demonstrated by establishing effects and technical processes of laundry cleaning concept variants. Proposed eco-evaluation criteria are based on adopted concepts of energy transformation quality and waste management hierarchy.