User manual

ECE 477 Final Report Spring 2004
will enter its normal usage phase. Even though the product will have a minimum environmental
impact at the time, several precautions should be taken. Since the remote unit will utilize battery
power, the consumer should be educated in proper recycling methods. By placing warning labels
on batteries and in the user’s manual, the end user will have a better understanding of disposal
and recycling methods. This, in turn, can help to reduce the effects on the environment due to
improper disposal of batteries.
After the product has successfully completed its lifetime obligations and the end user is
ready for disposal, it is important to consider the environmental impact that disposal can have.
It is important for the LCD display to be disposed of properly since it can contain mercury or
cadmium and these chemicals can cause sever damage to the environment. To assist with this
problem appropriate warning labels should be placed on the device and further information about
appropriate disposal methods and recycling should be placed in the user’s manual. In addition,
many of the integrated circuits and even the PCB can have a negative effect on the environment.
These parts of the system can contain lead, mercury, arsenic and other heavy metals which
should not be placed in the trash. They can be recycled and many of the metals can be extracted
for reuse. Again, appropriate warnings can be placed in the user manual and information of
proper disposal and recycling can be suggested.
Conclusion
Throughout the design and development process many ethical and environmental issues
should be considered. By putting a little extra effort into the design process many of the hazards
associated with a product can be reduced. Fully testing software and adding extra routines such
as built in self tests can improve usability and help to keep the device functioning properly.
Using environmental friendly manufacturing processes and recycling and proper disposal of
chemicals can reduce the environmental impact of the product. Finally, consumer education of
correct recycling methods can have a great impact on the safety of the environment.
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