Glossary

Desalination is a set of processes to remove salt and minerals from seawater. The result is water for human consumption or agricultural use.  Water from desalination is usually more expensive than other sources, so is generally found in regions with limited water supply, and also on ships and submarines.

Design for Assembly is the practice in which ease and cost of assembly is emphasized during the product-design stage.

Design for Logistics is the practice in which physical handling and distribution of a manufactured product are emphasized during the product-design stage.

Design for Manufacturability is the practice in which ease and cost of manufacturing, including quality-assurance issues, are emphasized during the product-design stage.

Design for Procurement is a practice in which product designers work effectively with suppliers and sourcing personnel to identify and incorporate components, technologies or designs that can be used in multiple products. This facilitates the use of standardized components to achieve economies of scale and assure continuity of supply.

Design for Quality is the practice in which quality assurance and customer perception of product quality are emphasized as an integral part of the design process.

Design for Recycling/Disposal is the practice in which ultimate disposal and recycling of the manufactured product are considered during the product-design stage.