Set up a Product System

screenshot of the ECOCLASS
NavigatorProduct systems are the core element of ECOCLASS. Here, product chains are defined in order to calculate their environmental impacts. In the current version of ECOCLASS, a product system consists of (at least) one utilization process and a so-called reference flow, which have to be connected by a flow arrow.

Default product system 'product.model'

Each project contains a subdirectory 'models' and within this folder by default the product system 'product.model'. You'll find it in the Navigator panel by opening the project and then the folder 'models' (either by double click or by clicking the little cross). There is also a system entry named '.project', which contains data on the project structure but can be ignored within ECOCLASS.

Create new product system

You can easily create new or additional product systems.

Rename product systems

Existing product systems can be renamed, no matter if you want to rename the default 'product.model' or a product system created by you. Simply

Caution: Renaming a product system without closing the associated product system editor first may result in loss of data.

Starting the Product System Editor

Double clicking the product system in the Navigator panel will create a new product system editor (PSE) in the main view of the workbench. The same task will be achieved by clicking the right mouse button on the product system in the Navigator and selecting "Open".

How you work with the PSE is described here.