A framework for structured data retrieval in LCA using feature technology

Obtaining the life cycle inventories (LCI) required for life cycle assessment (LCA) is often too expensive to be of use, as data is difficult to obtain and the amount of data is high. Integrating LCA into the design process can only be achieved by automating the extraction of LCI-relevant product data. Product models, that are used in product design, contain information relevant to the LCI and enabling structured access to that data reduces the amount of work for the LCA analyst by avoiding repeated determination and input of LCI data (data redundancy). This paper introduces a framework for a structured data retrieval in an LCA context through the use of feature technology. In a product model that includes a feature model, information on design features (e.g. geometry, dimensions) and manufacturing properties (e.g. material used, machining process applied) are included. Structured and efficient access to the LCI relevant data can be realized by a dedicated application program interface (API) bridging the gap between an LCA program and the product model. The characteristics and basic functionality of the API are described and the advantages of using an API are discussed. The basic idea of the framework is illustrated with a designed part.