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Session 3551

Integrating DFE as Core Course for Engineering Technology Programs

Dr. Charles U. Okonkwo

Arizona State University East

And

Dr. Marcia DeMendonca Northern Arizona University

ABSTRACT

Design for the environment (DFE) is an essential tool for manufacturing companies to become competitive in today’s global market. In the past, economic and technological decisions were solely based on market and profit outcomes, and little consideration was given to environmental and social impacts. With the increase in public awareness, pollution and health concerns become an important factor in today’s engineering practices. Engineers and technologists familiar with DFE tools can positively impact company’s market share and profitability without sacrificing sustainable development.

The ISO-14,000 standard will soon become the common standard among international corporations as a result of the world’s market rapidly moving towards globalization. Companies will embrace this standard similarly to ISO-9,000, which has gained broad acceptance among US and international companies. The DFE principles and practices are necessary tools for achieving major components of the ISO-14,000 objectives. Presently a large number of engineers are not trained in DFE practices. This situation creates some resistance to the implementation of DFE tools in product, equipment, facility and process design. Introducing DFE as a core course for all engineering and technology majors is central to the solution of this problem.

We propose a core course that incorporates topics such as life cycle analysis; environmental impact assessment, just in time (JIT) concepts, concurrent engineering, and application of DFE tools as the design solution for efficiency, profitability, sustainability and lean manufacturing of environmental friendly products.

Introduction

With market globalization presently at a fast pace, employers require engineering and technology professionals who are knowledgeable in environmentally safe design and processes. Authors such as McCright and Bergmiller (1), Wells (2), believe that there is a need for engineers trained

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DeMendonca, M., & Okonkwo, C. U. (2000, June), Integrating Dfe As Core Course For Engineering Technology Programs Paper presented at 2000 Annual Conference, St. Louis, Missouri. 10.18260/1-2--8473