A Novelty Model Employing the Quality Life Cycle Assessment (QLCA) Indicator and Frameworks for Selecting Qualitative and Environmental Aspects for Sustainable Product Development

The objective of this investigation was: (i) to develop a model that supports sustainable product development, considering the quality aspect and the environmental impact in the product life cycle, and (ii) to establish a framework to select the proportion of the share of these aspects during product development decisions. This research concentrates on achieving products that meet customer demand and have environmentally friendly life cycles. It also supports the implementation of design activities at an early stage of product development, positioning the share of quality in relation to environmental impact. The model is based on creating hypothetical prototypes of current products, and this approach concentrated on aggregating the quality (customer satisfaction) with life cycle environmental impacts (as in ISO 14040). The model was developed in five main stages, including: (i) defining product prototypes according to the modifications of quality criteria most desired by customers, (ii) assessing the quality of prototypes according to the Q quality index, (iii) prospective assessment of the environmental impacts of the life cycles of prototypes according to the LCA environmental index, (iv) methodical integration of the above-mentioned indicators into one quality and environmental indicator QLCA, and (v) analysis of possible production solutions and setting the direction of product development, taking into account both quality and environmental aspects. This research was extended with a sensitivity analysis of the QLCA indicator, after which a framework for selecting the proportion of the Q and LCA indicator’s share in product development decisions was established. The originality of this research is the ability of the developed model to facilitate eco-innovative product design and improvements while also selecting the share of qualitative and environmental aspects needed to develop sustainable products. The results provide a dynamic and effective tool for manufacturing companies; mainly designers and managers during qualitative and environmental prototyping of products commonly used by customers. The model will provide support in predicting a product that will be manufactured that will be satisfactory for customers and environmentally friendly based on LCA.