Fuzzy Multicriteria Decision Aid Method for Conceptual Design

A general fuzzy multicriteria decision aid method for conceptual design is proposed. It is used for selecting the best compromise alternative, among a finite set of design concepts, considering environmental and economic performance. At the conceptual design phase most of the environmental impact is committed, whereas at that stage the design concepts are imprecisely defined and should be selected based on multiple, often conflicting criteria. Three vacuum cleaners, using different design principles for the dust storage, are analyzed. The best compromise design alternative is selected, considering trade offs between end-of-life profit and environmental criteria.