Material gain

Richard Lucas*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to specialist publicationArticle

Abstract

Various systems that help designers pick suitable materials for products can also automate the process of gathering and presenting environmental data. In this direction SolidWorks teamed up with a German company, PE International, to integrate what it calls SW Sustainability into its design software. The intention was to give designers pointers to good practice and to show them where and how their choices in terms of materials made a difference. The system covers a range of parameters, including carbon footprint, energy and water usage, plus cost, which is always likely to be a relevant factor. Autodesk's new system gives straightforward pass/fail indicators on Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) compliance, and also tackles food contact rules and end-of-life recycling options. Compliance with standards and certification of products is more than a design issue, which is why it is now being incorporated within PLM systems.

Original languageEnglish
Volume24
No.5
Specialist publicationProfessional Engineering
Publication statusPublished - May 2011

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