Life-cycle design system for machined parts - linkage of LCI data to CAD/CAM data

The authors have proposed a new life-cycle design system specifically applicable to machined parts. The system automatically generates life-cycle assessment (GCA) feedback for the design process through the effective linkage of life-cycle inventory data with computer-aided design/manufacturing (CAD/CAM) data by feature-based modeling. The system is described, and through application to the environmental impact assessment of a mold-machined product, is shown to clearly reflect the change in environmental impact as a result of changes to aspects of the machining process. Specifically, the use of minimum quantities of lubricant system instead of conventional lubrication is shown to reduce the overall environmental impact of the product. By evaluating the machining process in detail, this system provides highly useful information that can be used to improve the machining process, representing a valuable aid to the life-cycle assessment if machined products.