Use
What is “Use” and Why it is important?
This use phase denotes the active utilization of a product by consumers or businesses for its intended purpose during its lifecycle. It can drive responsible consumption behaviour, with environmentally conscious consumers choosing more durable, repairable, and sustainable products. For instance, products with longer lifespans reduce the need for frequent replacements, conserving resources and minimizing waste.
At this stage the implementation of digital technologies is crucial as it enables the collection of real-time data through IoT sensors and connectivity. This data helps manufacturers gain insights into product performance, usage patterns, and potential issues, allowing for proactive maintenance, product improvements, and enhanced customer experiences.
Circular strategies in the use phase
Industry 4.0 technologies applied in the Usage phase
Big data & analytics
By analysing real-time data from sensors embedded in products, anomalies or potential issues can be detected before major failures occur. This allows for proactive maintenance and avoids unnecessary disruptions.
Augmented and virtual reality
AR and VR technologies post-market can enhance sustainability by enabling remote assistance for product troubleshooting, reducing the need for travel and product shipments.
Simulation
In the product’s usage phase, a digital twin can simulate the solid model, detecting faults when issues arise. It also enables real-time parameter monitoring for enhanced maintenance, longer product life, and predictive failure prevention.
Blockchain
Blockchain fosters sustainable consumption and production through its decentralized and transparent data system, enabling companies to trace natural resource origins, choose eco-friendly suppliers, and analyse product life cycles from production to consumer end. Furthermore, it plays a significant role in managing energy, water, and waste.
Additive manufacturing
IAdditive manufacturing facilitates localized, on-demand production of spare parts, prolonging product life and enabling rapid replication of damaged components, thus enhancing both convenience and sustainability.
Use Examples
Steelcase, a global leader in workspace research and design, employs Big Data and Analytics to optimize the utilization and maintenance of its furniture. The company utilizes IoT sensors embedded in its products to gather real-time data on usage patterns, energy consumption, and maintenance requirements. This data is then analyzed to pinpoint areas for improvement, including optimizing space utilization, identifying energy-saving opportunities, and scheduling preventive maintenance. Through proactive management of furniture usage and maintenance based on data insights, Steelcase minimizes unnecessary waste and extends the lifespan of its products.
Furthermore, the company has implemented a system of sensors integrated into physical spaces, collecting aggregate data on occupancy and space usage. This information is transmitted to their cloud platform, enabling various applications. For example, a dashboard provides managers with real-time information on currently used and unused spaces.
Sustainability benefits:
- By utilizing Big Data and Analytics, Steelcase can optimize the usage of its furniture, reducing the need for excess production and minimizing resource consumption. This leads to more efficient use of materials and a decrease in the environmental impact associated with manufacturing.
- Extending the lifespan of furniture through preventive maintenance not only reduces waste but also promotes a more sustainable approach to product lifecycle management.
Augmented reality is also becoming a modern tool for customers during the use phase, aiding in the clothes shopping process. The special mirror, FXMirror, utilizes augmented reality and software to provide convenience to customers in product selection, while simultaneously enabling retailers to capture data on customer preferences and behaviors. Shoppers can virtually try on clothes without the hassle of physically dressing and undressing. Retailers, in turn, can collect valuable data about their customers’ preferences and purchasing habits.
The customer stands in front of a smart mirror that measures their size and displays the complete collection of the store. On the screen, the customer tries on different types of clothes in various colours and sizes. They can see how the outfit looks virtually in the mirror without the need to physically wear it. This allows for comparison between different clothing combinations. Moreover, product descriptions, maintenance information, and possible product reviews are displayed directly on the mirror. After making a selection, the customer adds items to a virtual basket. The clothes are then either ready at the cash register, where the customer can try them on, or they can be purchased outright.
This process speeds up shopping selection, and retailers gain valuable data on their customers’ most frequent choices and sizes. With this information, they have clear insights for introducing new collections into production and can reduce their inventory of unsold items.
More information: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWcGhuX6N7w
Sustainability benefits:
- Retailers receive accurate information about their customer’s behaviour and preferences, allowing for precise production orders and reduced costs.
The customer stands in front of the smart mirror and looks at different clothes.
