ADVANCES IN COMPOSITE MATERIALS - ECODESIGN AND ANALYSIS

Multidimensional optimisation software tool

Given the complexity of the optimisation process, which has to be applied in each phase involved in the design of a FRP composite product whilst taking into account the three key criteria Q, H & E, it is important to develop a software tool capable to solve the probability problem and provide a high technique that can optimise the ecodesign function.

In this software tool, the optimisation process is composed of three steps which are recapitulated as follows: the first step defines the stage involved in the design process (k=1,2,..), collects the associated data and specifies the target value of probability to be reached; the second step assesses and analyses results on the basis of the three main criteria (Q, H & E) and then applies if necessary the optimisation procedure to achieve the required value of probability; and the third step reports in the form of a specification sheet the final eco-results and provides a comparison with classical ones.

The analysis of the ecodesign function will be made systematically by phase and according to the type of data collected, the assessment may be done using qualitative and/or quantitative method. Among the main phases subjected to an assessment procedure for FRP composite products are included:

• Phase 1: Definition of the FRP composite product functions and the design objectives.

• Phase 2: Choice of the constituents and the manufacturing processes

• Phase 3: Characterisation of the different materials and definition of thicknesses

• Phase 4: Correlation between tests and calculations

• Phase 5: Manufacture and inspection of the first FRP composite article (FAI)

• Phase 6: Qualification and certification of the FRP composite product

• Phase 7: Launch of the FRP composite product manufacturing on the Supply Chain

• Phase 8: Marketing of the FRP composite product (distribution and transport)

• Phase 9: Use, repair and maintenance of the FRP composite product

• Phase 10: End of life of the FRP composite product, waste management and recycling

• Phase 11: Evolution of lifecycle FRP composite product

For better interpretation and visualisation of results, the global ecodesign assessment of the FRP composite product may be given in the form of a spider graph showing the location of eco-coefficients values with regards to the limiting envelop of the ecodesign function. In addition, the other constraints such as: hygiene & security, risk, energy, cost, time factor, etc.. may be included in one of the three aspects that best matches the study.