Theme 6

Many current methods of environmental impact assessment are considered be too static, overwhelming and inadequate for embedding within design and manufacturing processes. For example, the best-in-class Life Cycle Analysis guidelines are overwhelmed by the extent of information processed, and often lead to simplified scores that are difficult to keep up to date. Researchers are exploring opportunities across all the Hub industry flagships to assess potential utilisation of emerging technologies such as Chatbot to avoid the limitations of current design tools and approaches, and enable timely, effective decision making so that designers can develop product with significantly reduced environmental impacts throughout their lifecycle.

Scope of Work

The key challenges being addressed include knowledge provision to designers, given their lack of expertise in design for circularity, and approaches for data management, given the immensity of required information and levels of dispersion needed. The work includes preparation of a case study to deliver life cycle analysis information from a variety of sources and data partners; and development of an AI-driven Design For Minimal Life Cycle Impact advisory system to provide a proof of concept that will be trained on the lifecycle analysis information obtained from the case study.

Research Questions