An Integrated DFSS Methodology for Sustainable Product Design: A Multi-Tool Approach Combining QFD, TRIZ, CAD/CAE, and DOE

This study proposes and validates a structured methodology based on Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) for sustainable product design, addressing the lack of standardization in the integration of design tools and the need to simultaneously consider qualitative, quantitative, and sustainability-related variables. The methodology integrates Voice of the Customer (VOC), Quality Function Deployment (QFD), Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ), computer-aided design and engineering (CAD/CAE), and Design of Experiments (DOE) within a ten-stage framework combining the stages from DMADV (Define, Measure, Analyze, Design, Verify) and IDOV (Identify, Design, Optimize, Validate) approaches. The proposed method was applied to the design of a structural concrete block, considering performance variables such as weight, factor of safety, displacement, energy consumption, and carbon emissions. The results show that the integration of QFD enabled prioritization of customer requirements, while DOE and regression models identified significant factors and interactions. Multi-response optimization using desirability functions achieved a balanced solution, improving structural performance and sustainability indicators. In particular, a significant reduction in carbon emissions was achieved. Validation through simulation confirmed the consistency between predicted and observed results. The findings demonstrate that the proposed methodology provides a systematic and replicable approach for product design, improving decision-making and supporting the development of more sustainable products.