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This paper introduces an innovative model designed to predict the optimal product prototype within the framework of sustainable development. The model takes into account both quality and environmental impact throughout the entire life cycle of the product, with a specific focus on light electric vehicles. By incorporating customer expectations using the Weighted Sum Model, the model assesses vehicle quality based on the importance of various criteria. Employing life cycle evaluations guided by the Pareto-Lorenz rule, environmental impact for vehicle prototypes is modeled. The resulting Quality-Environmental Indicator of LCA (QLCA) facilitates a qualitative environmental analysis, aiding in the selection of prototypes that align with customer expectations. The model proves effective in guiding decisions related to product development, providing a comprehensive approach to evaluating product value. Notable contributions to the scientific community include the introduction of the QLCA model, which integrates quality and environmental assessments, and underscores the significance of open innovation, sustainable development, and sensitivity analysis for organizational adaptation. Future research directions involve adapting the model to larger customer samples, exploring production costs, and assessing its applicability across diverse industries and contexts to enhance its universality and practical implications.

The sustainability of products remains a challenge, mainly due to the lack of consistent approaches for simultaneously taking into account the key criteria of the concept in the process. This research aims to develop an eco-innovative QLCA method to create new product solutions that integrate quality (customer satisfaction) and environmental impact assessment throughout the product life cycle. The QLCA method includes: (i) product prototyping according to quality and environmental criteria; (ii) prospective assessment of the quality of prototypes, taking into account customer requirements; (iii) prospective life cycle assessment of product prototypes using a cradle-to-grave approach in accordance with ISO 14040; and (iv) setting the direction of product development while taking into account the fulfilment of customer expectations and the need to care for the environment throughout the product life cycle. Owing to the lack of previous research in this area, as well as the popularity of photovoltaic (PV) panels in reducing greenhouse gases, an illustration was obtained and test of the method was carried out on the example of silicon photovoltaic panel modules (Crystalline Si PV Module). In accordance with the adopted assumptions, the results of the QLCA method test showed that the modelled PV prototypes will, in most cases, be satisfactory for customers, but they still require improvement actions to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions throughout their life cycle. These activities should be consistent so as to achieve quality that satisfies customers. The QLCA method can be used by designers, managers, and decision-makers at the early stages of design, but also during the product maturity phase for its sustainable development.

The development of materials and the products made from them should respond to new challenges posed by market changes and also by climate change. Therefore, the objective of this investigation was to develop a method that supports the sustainable development of materials and the products made from them based on an aggregated indicator of quality and environmental load in the life cycle (QLCA). The testing and illustration of the QLCA method included a passenger car tyre and nine prototypes. These prototypes were described using eight quality criteria: season, class, size of the load index, speed index, rolling, adhesion, and external noise. Then, customer expectations regarding the importance of the criteria and satisfaction with the indicators in the current and modified states were obtained. Based on the customer assessment, the quality indicators of the prototypes were assessed. This assessment was supported by the weighted sum model (WSM) and the entropy method. Then, life cycle assessment for the reference tyre was performed using the Ecoinvent database in the OpenLCA program. LCA indicators were modelled for other prototypes, taking into account quality changes. As a result of the verification of the method, an aggregated QLCA indicator was estimated, based on which it was possible to select the most favourable (qualitatively and environmentally) prototype out of nine. This was the P4 prototype (QLCA = 0.57). The next position in the ranking was taken by P7 (QLCA = 0.43). The QLCA method can be used to determine the direction of development of materials and products in terms of their sustainable development.

This study involved the optimization of the molded pieces manufacturing process from a poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate biocomposite containing 30% wood flour by mass. The amount of wood flour and preliminary processing parameters were determined on the basis of preliminary tests. The aim of the optimization was to find the configuration of important parameters of the injection process to obtain molded pieces of good quality, in terms of aesthetics, dimensions, and mechanical properties. The products tested for quality were dog bone specimens. The biocomposite was produced using a single-screw extruder, whereas molded pieces were made using an injection molding process. The Taguchi method was applied to optimize the injection molding parameters, which determine the products quality. Control factors were selected at three levels. The L27 orthogonal plan was used. For each set of input parameters from this plan, four processing tests were performed. The sample weight, shrinkage, elongation at break, tensile strength, and Young’s modulus were selected to assess the quality of the molded parts. As a result of the research, the processing parameters of the tested biocomposite were determined, enabling the production of good-quality molded pieces. No common parameter configuration was found for different optimization criteria. Further research should focus on finding a different range of technological parameters. At the same time, it was found that the range of processing parameters of the produced biocomposite, especially processing temperature, made it possible to use it in the Wood Polymer Composites segment.

In the era of the competitive environment, the improvement in current products is ensured through activities aimed at increasing a product’s quality level and, consequently, reducing the amount of waste. The dynamically changing production environment and sudden changes in customer expectations force us to take precise and well-thought-out development steps. Furthermore, it is important to anticipate favourable product changes to prepare for market changes over time. This is still an open problem. The aim of this study was to develop a method to predict the quality of potential product prototypes resulting from the proposed modifications of the product features. This methodology takes into account current customer expectations. The method was created based on the principles of creating Quality Function Deployment (QFD) in the context of taking into account current and future customer expectations regarding product features. This is a new approach to analysing product quality within the principles of the traditional QFD method. The originality of the study is the technique used in the method to estimate the expected values of product features and their importance (weights), taking into account current customer expectations. Its originality is also manifested in drawing conclusions supporting the decision-making process of product improvement, because it involves ensuring the pro-quality modification of selected features of current products in the order that is most advantageous from the customer’s point of view. The use of the proposed method allows for the analysis of the impact of modifying the current value of a product feature. The method is illustrated with an example of a vacuum cleaner for home use. However, the proposed method can be applied to the design of any product to predict products that will meet customer expectations.

Identification of causes of incompatibilities of the products treated with the powder method allows their elimination or minimization of those differences, which contributes to the improvement of the powder coating method and thus to the development of processes in the field of metallurgy. The aim of the article is to analyze the corrosion problem on the ventilator cover with the use of the sequence of selected quality management instruments (Ishikawa diagram and the 5Why method) and proposed actions to eliminate or minimize the problem and improve the powder coating process and organization within the workplace place of the selected company. The analysis was carried out at the request of the management of the Podkarpackie fan producer. The management wanted to analyze some of a problems in the simple and cheaper way, and thus in the enterprise this using the types of the method was not practiced. The management were wanted to analyze the problem with using these types of method because, in this enterprise, this was not practiced yet. The analysis of corrosion using the new sequence – Ishikawa diagram and 5Why method allowed, i.e.: appropriate analysis of the problem, identified the root cause of adequate problem and proposed the actions for the problem, thanks to which is possible to improve the powder coating process and a good organization workplace in the selected company. The sequence used and the proposed improvement actions can be used to analyze quality problems in other production and service companies.

Achieving the expectation quality products level is possible among others, by using adequate management techniques, which allow or identify incompatibilities, its sources, and above all, the reasons for its occurrence and ways of its elimination. Applying in this aim singe technique is common, but it was turned out that a lack is integrated connection between selected techniques. The purpose of the study is to propose a technique consisting of cyclical use: brainstorming (BM), relationship diagram, cause and effect diagram, multiple voting, and the AHP method.The technique was verified in the nondestructive testing process. The analysis was performed for often occurring incompatibilities in mechanical sealers for 410 steel. The identified incompatibilities of the analyzed mechanical sealers were the most frequent porosity, which was identified by fluorescent method (FPI). The effectiveness of the proposed technique was shown. The main advantage of its use was to improve the process of decision-making referred to incompatibility causes. It is possible to effectively use this method to analyze another type of incompatibility and products in production and service enterprises.

Improving product quality is still a challenge; therefore, this article aims to propose an approach to predict customer satisfaction. We implemented the following techniques: the SMART(-ER) method, brainstorming (BM), a Likert-scale survey, the Pareto rule, the WSM method, and the Naive Bayes Classifier. Customer expectations were obtained as part of the survey research. Based on these, we determined customers’ satisfaction with the current quality of the criteria and the weights of these criteria. We then applied the Pareto rule, the WSM method, and the Naive Bayes Classifier. In the proposed approach, it was predicted that current product quality is not very satisfactory to customers; that conditioned the need for improvement actions. The originality of the study is the ability to predict customer satisfaction while taking into account the weights of this criterion. The proposed approach can be used for any product.

This paper aims to develop an integrated Quality–Cost–Environmental (QCE) indicator for the selection of photovoltaic panels (PVps) offered to customers, considering the following criteria: (i) quality satisfaction; (ii) cost-effectiveness; and (iii) environmental impact throughout the life cycle. The proposed QCE indicator was developed within a framework that incorporated an FAHP (Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process), cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA), and life cycle assessment (LCA). The model test confirmed its effectiveness in choosing a PVp which combines environmental friendliness throughout its entire life cycle with satisfactory quality and a reasonable purchase price for customers. The proposed model can be utilized by individuals, businesses, and public entities for the selection of high-quality, cost-efficient, and environmentally friendly PVps—thereby promoting sustainable development.

The advancement of quality and environmentally sustainable materials and products made from them has improved significantly over the last few years. However, a research gap is the lack of a developed model that allows for the simultaneous analysis of quality and environmental criteria in the life-cycle assessment (LCA) for the selection of materials in newly designed products. Therefore, the objective of the research was to develop a model that supports the prediction of the environmental impact and expected quality of materials and products made from them according to the design solution scenarios considering their LCA. The model implements the GRA method and environmental impact analysis according to the LCA based on ISO 14040. The model test was carried out for light passenger vehicles of BEV with a lithium-ion battery (LiFePO4) and for ICEV. The results indicated a relatively comparable level of quality, but in the case of the environmental impact throughout the life-cycle, the predominant amount of CO2 emissions in the use phase for combustion vehicles. The originality of the developed model to create scenarios of design solutions is created according to which the optimal direction of their development in terms of quality and environment throughout LCA can be predicted.

Obtaining and processing customers’ expectations for products is a problem in view of the dynamic changes of these expectations. It refers to precisely determining the most important requirements of customers to improve the product in a standardized way. The purpose of the article was to develop a method to process customers' expectations to improve the quality of products. The motivation for developing this method was to reduce uncertainty in expressing customer expectations. Using the SMART(-ER) method, the goal of the analysis was determined. Then, during brainstorming (BM), the product and the analysis criteria were selected. Next, by using a survey with the Likert scale, the customer expectations were obtained. Later, these expectations were processed by the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP). Based on processed weights, the choice of important criteria was compiled. The choice was made according to the Pareto-Lorenz Rule. The originality of the article is based on a method, which simultaneously combines quality management tools with the method in a fuzzy decision environment. This method can be used to verify customers' expectations for any product.

One of the global ecological problems is the excessive carbon dioxide emissions generated by vehicles in the transport sector, including passenger transport. Therefore, the objective of this investigation was to develop a model that supports the prediction of vehicle variants that will be satisfactory to the customer in terms of: (i) quality level and (ii) environmental impact throughout the life cycle. This model was developed with the following techniques: TOPSIS (Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution), LCA (Life Cycle Assessment), SMARTER (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound), Pareto–Lorenz, and the Multi-Criteria Decision Method rule (7 ± 2). A model test was carried out for production variants of the electric vehicle BEV (battery electric vehicle) for which the quality level and life cycle assessment were estimated. Vehicle quality levels ranged from 0.15 to 0.69, with a weight of 0.75. However, vehicle life cycle scores were estimated in the range of 0.25 to 0.57, with a weight of 0.25. Ultimately, the level of the vehicles’ LCA ranged from 0.18 to 0.62. As a result, it was shown that on the basis of various modifications of the quality level of vehicle variants and the corresponding environmental impacts throughout their life cycle, it is possible to predict the vehicle variant that is most satisfactory for the customer and, at the same time, environmentally friendly. The originality of the model relies on supporting the making of sustainable design decisions and the planning of vehicle improvement actions according to customer expectations. Therefore, the model can be used to analyse different types of vehicles by producers and dealers of these products.

An important issue addressed in research on the assessment of the quality of polymer products is the quality of the polymer material itself and, in accordance with the idea of waste-free management, the impact of its repeated processing on its properties and the quality of the products. In this work, a biocomposite, based on poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) with short hemp fibers, was obtained and repeatedly processed, which is a continuation of the research undertaken by the team in the field of this type of biocomposites. After subsequent stages of processing, the selected mechanical, processing and functional properties of the products were assessed. For this purpose, microscopic tests were carried out, mechanical properties were tested in static tensile and impact tests, viscosity curves were determined after subsequent processing cycles and changes in plastic pressure in the mold cavity were determined directly during processing. The results of the presented research confirm only a slight decrease in the mechanical properties of the produced type of biocomposite, even after it has been reprocessed five times, which gives extra weight to arguments for its commercialization as a substitute for petrochemical-based plastics. No significant changes were found in the used parameters and processing properties with the stages of processing, which allows for a predictable and stable manufacturing process using, for example, the injection molding process.

Customizing the quality of the product to change customer expectations is a necessary action in good, prospering organizations. In enterprises, the most beneficial solutions consider the future satisfaction of customer with the product. This issue is not easy and is not resolved; therefore, integration of different techniques was proposed as part of a single, coherent appliance. Therefore, the aim is to propose the appliance to predict the quality of hypothetically modified products. The appliance was developed by adequately selected and combined techniques, i.e., survey research with the Likert scale, AHP method (Analytic Hierarchy Process), Pareto rule (20/80), WSM method (Weighted Sum Model) and Naive Classifier Bayes. The concept of the proposed appliance concerns the possibility of determining important product attributes and possible combinations of feature states. Based on this, the quality levels were estimated, and then satisfaction with the hypothetical modifications of the product was predicted. The test was carried out on the vacuum cleaner. As a result, four combinations of product modifications were determined, which have been created based on hypothetical and actual attributes. Each modification was satisfying for the customer. Therefore, the proposed apparatus turned out to be effective in predicting customer satisfaction for the modified quality levels. Originality is to propose a new integration of different techniques to predict levels of quality product modification based on current product quality.

Predicting favourable products is still challenging. It is influenced by dynamic customers' requirement changes and reduction of waste. An important problem is a simultaneous combination of customer satisfaction with environmental aspects. It resulted from a need to reduce the harmfulness of products and increasing the quality level of these products. Therefore, the aim is to propose a method to predict favourable products considering qualitative and environmental aspects. The method relies on predicting which product will be the most favourable for customer, and simultaneously will be the most environmentally friendly. Due to the uncertainty of decisions, the Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) was implemented in the proposed method. The GRA method is effective to any number of data, therefore the proposed method does not have limitations in numbers of qualitative and environmental criteria. The test was carried out based on harmful industrial products. It was fluorescent penetrants used in popular non-destructive testing.

The idea of sustainable development enforces the pro-environmental design and production of products. It also refers to products producing green energy. The current situation in the world, mainly in Europe, further intensifies these works. The new products occurring in this dynamic market are rarely known by customers. In such a case, they have the problem of proper selection based on their own needs. Hence, the purpose is to develop a method to support the customers during their choice of product. In this methodical study, the qualitative and environmental criteria and also price of purchase were simultaneously included. This method was developed using integrated selected techniques, e.g., brainstorming (BM), the SMARTER method, rule 7 ± 2, questionnaire with Likert scale, AHP method, PROMETHEE II method, and matrix data analysis. The results from the test of method allowed the development this method for possible selection of a product according to individual customer expectations but also supported by the knowledge and experience of experts. The method is dedicated to customers but also enterprises aspiring to simultaneously develop their own products. The originality of this work is the integration of the main criteria for the selection of the product by the customer, i.e., quality, impact on natural environment, and price. The novelty of the study is the ranking of selecting products by considering qualitative and environmental criteria, limiting the customer’s necessary knowledge about the analyzed products to determine the weights of criteria, and visualization of the qualitative–environmental relationship. The model test was carried out for popular solar collectors.

Ensuring the expected quality of materials is still a challenge, mainly in order to precisely plan improvement actions that allow for stabilization of the production process. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to develop a novel procedure to identify critical causes of material incompatibility—the causes that have the largest negative impact on material deterioration, and the natural environment. The main originality of this procedure is developing a way to coherent analyse the mutual influence of the many causes of incompatibility of any material, after which the critical causes are identified and a ranking of improvement actions to eliminate these causes is created. A novelty is also developed in the algorithm supporting this procedure, which can be realized in three different ways to solve this problem, i.e.; by considering the impact of material incompatibility on: (i) the deterioration of the material quality; (ii) the deterioration of the natural environment; and (iii) simultaneously the deterioration of the quality of the material and the natural environment. The effectiveness of this procedure was confirmed after tests on 410 alloy, from which a mechanical seal was made. However, this procedure can be useful for any material or industrial product.

The aim of the article is to propose the combination of selected quality management instruments in a sequential and repetitive manner and to identify the incompatibilities and causes of its occurrence. This is a combination of techniques i.e.: brainstorming (BM), causes and effects diagram, multiply voting, and the 5Why method. The test of the proposed combination of the selected quality management instruments was made for the problem of the incompatibility of the product in an enterprise located in the Podkarpacie. This problem was the non-metallic inclusions on the bearing housing from CPW 407 steel. The proposed combination of the selected quality management instruments was integrated with the non-destructive testing (NDT). The originality of the study is to propose the combination of selected quality management instruments as a part of a single method, whose stages can occur in a sequential and repetitive manner.

The quality of products is, in particular, analyzed in product case from the aerospace industry in order to achieve the desired quality and safety levels. The aim of the study is to propose the use of selected quality management techniques in the quality control process made by non-destructive testing. The subject of the research were two products made of steel 410, in which incompatibilities were detected relatively frequently. It was a four-hole flange bearing housing and a gasodynamic sealant. The products mentioned were subjected (according to the quality procedure) to non-destructive testing with two methods: a fluorescent and a magnetic-powder. In order to identify the source cause of incompatibilities the implementation of selected quality management techniques was proposed. These techniques were: 5W2H method, Ishikawa method and 5Why method. Although these methods are simple, they were not used in the enterprise so far. So it was an order to use them, to check their adequacy. By supplementing the non-destructive research with the proposed sequence of selected quality management techniques, it was shown that it is possible to identify the source cause. In addition, by indicating the source cause it is possible to propose improvement actions adequate to the problem. So it will improve the quality of the next products. The proposed solution using the 5W2H method, Ishikawa diagram and 5Why method is complete and easy in practice technique for qualitative analysis to identify the root cause of incompatibility. After using these not complicated methods, it will be effective to use in the appropriate sequence more advanced methods, such as 8D, Six Sigma and DMAIC.

The idea of sustainable development (SD) forces companies to combine the quality development of products with the simultaneous care of the natural environment. These actions should start with the product design process. The aim of the study was to create a modified method of Quality Function Development (QFD-CE), which will support the design of new products or improve the existing products on the market. In the proposed method (QFD-CE), the method integrates techniques such as: SMARTER method, brainstorming (BM), the method of selecting a team of experts, kinship diagram, fixed sum scale, and Likert scale. A novelty compared to the traditional QFD methodology is that design goals are set not only based on customer expectations, but also considering the impact on the natural environment. The originality of this proposition comes to the practical inclusion of including sustainability development criteria. The proposed method can be used in companies that design new products and are focused on caring for the natural environment. The QFD-CE method test method was performed for photovoltaic panels (PV). As part of the proposed QFD-CE method, the sequence of design activities was determined so that they meet customer expectations and can be simultaneously implemented according to the idea of SD. This method can be used for any product, mainly those that have a significant impact on the natural environment.

Improving products and production processes is necessary to ensure the competitiveness of the organisation. As part of these improvements, the popular approach is to use the FMEA method (Failure Mode and Effect Analysis). In the traditional FMEA approach, only the qualitative aspect is included, i.e., the analysis of the quality level of products or processes, its possible incompatibilities, and then proposing improving actions for them. It seems insufficient in times of expansion of the idea of sustainable development and dynamically changing customer requirements. Hence, the purpose of the research is to develop a fuzzy QE-FMEA method to simultaneously analyze hazards for product quality and the natural environment. This method will be based on a fuzzy decision environment. The main elements of originality of the developed method are: (i) extension of the characteristics of the selection of ratings for indicators with triangular fuzzy numbers and the development of a new characteristics of the selection of ratings for the environmental impact indicator, (ii) development of a selection matrix for the qualitative-environmental indicator (QE) according to the rules of triangular fuzzy numbers, (iii) determination of the method of estimating the value of the threat priority, additionally considering the qualitative-environmental indicator (RQE). The complement of research is developed procedure of the Fuzzy QE-FMEA method. It was shown that it is possible to include the effects of incompatibilities (effects of defects occurring in products or processes), which were simultaneously assessed considering the importance and impact on the natural environment. This method will be useful for any company for analysing defects of any products or processes mainly with significant impact on the natural environment.

The unfriendly-for-humans environment of space causes automatic or remotely controlled vehicles and devices to be used for its research. In robot and manipulator control systems, and also in mechanisms adjusting antennas and photovoltaic panels, the hermetic harmonic drive can be used. A special advantage of this type of gear is the ability to transfer power to an isolated space separated by physical barriers from external influences. Therefore, the purpose was to design gears that will allow achieving the highest kinematic precision for control systems by simultaneously maintaining their hermetics. The article presented an analysis of the kinematic accuracy of harmonic hermetic drives powered by four different types of wave generators. The generators used differed in construction but also caused other deformations of the flexspline. The calculation of angular displacement was prepared in the computer program Abaqus. The simulations were performed on virtual models of a complete harmonic hermetic drive using the finite element method (FEM). The results from the analysis allow the most favorable solution to be applied to the Mars rover drive or spacecraft control system. It was determined for which of the wave generators the kinematic accuracy is the highest and how high the backlash exists for the reversing rotation. Finally, the proposed design will allow one to increase the accuracy of the working movements and control of space vehicles while ensuring a minimal influence of the external ambient.

Machinery faults are a problem that incorrectly diagnosed may result in the increase of waste. The fault mentioned in the article was identified at an opencast facility located in Podkarpacie. The purpose of the study was to analyse the defect identified on the excavator arm using quality management techniques. These techniques were the Ishikawa diagram and the 5Why method. In the plant, unit faults on various types of machines were detected. The fracture on the excavator arm was identified, however, the cause of the problem was not known. Potential causes of the fault and the main cause of the problem (material fatigue) were detected using the Ishikawa diagram. The root cause of the material fatigue, the long-term and repetitive operation of the excavator during the excavation of the deposit, was identified by the 5Why method. The proposed processes can be used to identify the root causes of various faults both in the mining industry as well as production and service plants.

Outer space presents construction challenges that are completely different from the terrestrial environment. They should be characterized by high resilience and indefinite durability because there is no possibility of repair during exploitation. There are drives in spacecraft control systems that are necessary to move solar panels, robotic arms, and manipulators, and also to position antennas. In these devices, they have applications where harmonic drives are characterized by high kinematic accuracy but relatively low mechanical strength. The analysis presented in this study is aimed at modifying the shape of the harmonic drive to increase its durability and reliability. In this study, the most vulnerable damage element of the harmonic drive is the flexspline. The calculation was carried out using the finite element method (FEM) in the computer program ABAQUS. A standardized shape was tested as a basic model, and several other design solutions were proposed. For each of them, the mechanical strength was determined, which allowed the selection of the most preferred shape for the flexspline of the harmonic drive. The specific environmental requirements of the expectations for sand for gear used in spacecraft control systems were included in the analysis. The selected construction solutions of the flexspline allow for longer work and transfer of greater loads by the harmonic driver than the solutions currently used. The choice of harmonic driver design shape allows for failure-free and maintenance-free work in space vehicle control systems.

In the plan of the European Green Deal, the European Union assumed that by 2050 Europe will become the first climate-neutral continent in the world. This will be supported by alternative (renewable) energy sources (RESs), also termed green energy (GE). Their use should have long-term environmental benefits. To do this, it is necessary to skillfully select RES products. Therefore, the purpose is to develop a method for selecting devices that convert to GE, including not only qualitative criteria, but also environmental criteria and their price. The method is based on customer requirements and expert knowledge. The general concept of the method allows for the assessment of selected qualitative and environmental criteria of products and determining the price of purchase of these products. In a hybrid way, the following techniques were used: SMARTER method, brainstorming (BM), MAP method (alternative-punctual Czechowski’ method), ACJ method (price–qualitative analysis). Based on the results of qualitative criteria assessments or qualitative and environmental criteria assessments, the customer can select the best product. The customer can also select products, including the price of purchase, based on results from ACJ. A test of the method was carried out for solar collectors. The results testify to the possibility of controlling the selection control. The originality of this study is the creation of an uncomplicated sequence of techniques that provide the customer with the choice of RESs. The novelty of the method is the possibility of evaluating any products. In this study, the method is dedicated to devices converting GE, e.g., solar collectors.

The current situation in the energy market contributes not only to the sales growth of photovoltaic panels (PV) but also to the intense search for possibilities for its improvement. The purpose of this research was to develop a model to determine, where possible, the most beneficial modifications to improve products. The model used combination techniques, i.e., the SMARTER method, brainstorming (BM), the 7 ± 2 rule, questionnaire, ant colony optimization (ACO), and importance-performance analysis (IPA). In addition, an algorithm supporting ACO was proposed in the MATLAB program. The test was carried out on PV and showed that it is possible to determine the way of product (PV) improvement by determining a sequence of modifications for product criteria states while simultaneously considering customers’ expectations. It was shown that each state of the short-circuit electricity and peak power was satisfactory for customers. It was necessary to modify the maximum current and idle voltage. In addition, the selected modification states of the weight and dimensions will be more satisfactory compared to the current states. The proposed model is based on searching for the best changes in product criteria to achieve the highest possible customer satisfaction (i.e., product quality level). Originality is the ability to define a product improvement method (PV) depending on customer expectations but also taking into account the requirements of the company.

Material production processes are special processes. As part of continuous improvement, it is extremely important to find the causes of the incompatibilities that occur in them. To increase the effectiveness of these actions, different methods are used. The purpose of this study was to present an original method that allows the classification to improve the combinations of actions of product with material incompatibility. The originality of this method allows for the sequential and coherent operation of adequate analysis techniques of causes resulting in incompatibilities in the product material and, consequently, identifying the reasons that influence their quality. The presented method was developed using a new combination of brainstorming (BM), the Ishikawa diagram with 5M rule, the DEMATEL method, and the algorithm used in the MATLAB software. As a result of the proposed applied method, it is possible to create a sequence of actions that include interactions between important causes of product incompatibility, which was supported by the test of this method. This method was shown to support the creation of a rank of importance of improvement actions. This ranking allows for improvement of any product according to the possibilities of enterprises and simultaneously allows for reducing or eliminating products’ incompatibilities.

Industry is one of the most important segments of the national economy. The changes, which take place affect the business aspect of the labor market, and more specifically the employment of people in specific industry sectors. It can significantly influence on the way and the number of employment of people in the industry, so, therefore, it was purposeful to analye whether there were significant changes in the number of employees in selected industry sectors. The aim of the paper was to analyse the basic statistical data from the Central Statistical Office in Poland if there were any changes of employment in the main industry sectors in Poland. The sectors that were analyzed were mining and quarrying; manufacturing; electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply; water supply, sewerage, waste management and remediation activities. The research methodology was the analysis of trends from data from the period 2012–2017 (no data after 2017) from a reliable source, i.e. the Central Statistical Office in Poland. It was concluded that the important changes in the number of employment of people in the main industry sectors could be observed as evidenced by, among others, by the trends. The results of the analysis can be the basis for assessing the economic situation in the analyzed industry sector, and also to make next analyses targeted on the analysis of causes the trends in employed area in selected industry sectors in Poland.

Stabilizing the quality of industrial product materials remains a challenge. This applies mainly to new or significantly modified materials. It also refers to special processes. The tests of product quality can stabilize the quality of industrial product materials. The popular method for this is using the non-destructive testing (NDT). The NDT identifies incompatibility but does not determine the cause of its occurrence. Hence, it was necessary to support the process of identifying causes of incompatibilities in products. The purpose of the article was to develop a model based on a new approach to determine the ranking of actions that are possible as part of the process of stabilizing the quality of industrial products. The model was developed to improve quality through sequential and systematic methods of identification (and reduce) and incompatibility. The quality management techniques and decision method were applied and combined in this model, i.e., SMART(-ER) the method, method of selecting a team of experts, brainstorming (BM), Ishikawa diagram with the 5M rule, Likert scale validation technique, arithmetic average, and Grey Relational Analysis (GRA). The test of this model was carried out to find cracks in the outer hull of 418 alloy four-point bearing (CPW-S 5616), which was identified by NDT (magnetic-powder method). As a result, a ranking of activities was obtained to stabilize the quality of the product and the main cause of incompatibility was indicated, i.e., the cause which can influence to the most degree influence on occurrence the incompatibility. The originality of the proposed model is an application in the right order of specially selected and combined qualitative methods and supporting decision methods. The finding of causes of incompatibility of products is the basis of product improvement in the area of stabilizing the quality of materials, mainly by the occurrence of special processes. The universality of the model refers to the possibility of its application for any material, processes of its formation, and processes of products, and any incompatibilities where the model can be integrated with quality control.

The perspective of reducing negative climate changes in the area of production of electricity is beneficial mainly for photovoltaic panels (PV). In this case, qualitative–ecological interactions arise, which should be verified to properly select PV. It refers to the analysis of customers’ expectations of the utility of photovoltaic panels and their impact on the landscape (environments). Therefore, the purpose of the article was to propose a model to predict the quality of photovoltaic panels considering the expectations of the customers. According to the SMART(-ER) method, the purpose of the analysis was determined. Then, using brainstorming (BM), the criteria of PV were determined in groups: technical, utility, and aesthetic. The customer expectations were then obtained by questionnaire with the technique with the method of comparison in pairs and Likert scale. Customer expectations were initially verified using the AHP method, after which the key PV criteria of PV were selected. The relations between these criteria were then determined by the DEMATEL method. According to customer expectations, the quality of PV was calculated. The Weighted Product Model (WPM) was used this purpose. As a result, the best photovoltaic panel was predicted for the best PV for the customer by using the relative state scale. The developed model can be used by any entity for any photovoltaic panel and by individual personalized criteria for the customer and other interested parties. The originality of this model is the integration of selected techniques in such a way as to provide them with the greatest satisfaction after choosing a PV based on customer expectations.

Improving the quality of products remains a challenge. This is due to the turbulent environment and the dynamics of changing customer requirements. Hence, the key action is to predict beneficial changes in products, which will allow one to achieve customer satisfaction and reduce the waste of resources. Therefore, the purpose of this article was to develop a universal model to predict the expected direction of quality improvement. Initially, the purpose of the research was determined by using the SMART(-ER) method. Then, during the brainstorming method (BM), the product criteria and range states of these criteria were determined. Next, a survey with the Likert scale was used to obtain customers’ expectations, i.e., assessing the importance of criteria and customers’ satisfaction with ranges of product criteria states. Based on customer assessments, quality product levels were calculated using the Weighted Sum Model (WSM). Then, the initial customer satisfaction from the product quality level was identified according to the relative state’s scale. Based on this, the direction of product quality improvement was anticipated using the Naïve Bayesian Classifier (NBC). A test of the model was carried out for photovoltaic panels (PV) of a key EU producer. However, the proposed model is universal, because it can be used by any entity to predict the direction of improvement of any kind of product. The originality of this model allows the prediction of the destination of product improvement according to customers’ assessments for weights of criteria and satisfaction from ranges of quality-criterion states.

Umiejętne stosowanie instrumentów zarządzania jakością jest bardzo ważne w przypadku przeprowadzania różnego typu analiz. Instrumenty te, do których zalicza się między innymi narzędzia, metody zarządzania jakością wykorzystywane mogą być nie tylko podczas analizy problemów z branży produkcyjnej, ale również z branży usługowej. Ich główna zaleta to prostota. Nie trzeba mieć specjalistycznego przygotowania, aby je stosować. Umiejętne ich zastosowanie zwiększa prawdopodobieństwo osiągnięcia celu. Celem tym jest często satysfakcja klienta. Tak więc instrumenty zarzadzania jakością staja się nieskomplikowanym sposobem rozwoju organizacji. Dotyczy to również branży farmaceutycznej. W przypadku produktów farmaceutycznych, od których zależy zdrowie i życie człowieka, warto zwrócić uwagę na satysfakcję klientów. Konsument pragnie za niską cenę, kupić lek skuteczny i dobrej jakości. Specyfika odróżniająca tę sytuację od innych branż jest taka, że podczas zakupu leków wydawanych na receptę wybór konsumenta jest znacznie ograniczony, ponieważ zależy on od lekarza. Tym bardziej celowe wydaje się badanie czynników wpływających na zakup leków. Prezentowany artykuł zawiera wyniki takich badań. Są to wnioski z badań ankietowych dotyczących wpływu czynników zewnętrznych na wybór leków farmaceutycznych przez potencjalnego konsumenta. Badania ankietowe przeprowadzono wśród 280 pacjentów rzeszowskiego szpitala. Podczas analiz posłużono się diagramem Ishikawy oraz mapą myśli. Uzyskane wyniki wskazują jak duży wpływ na zakup leku ma jego cena oraz jak ważna jest znajomość instrumentów zarządzania jakością oraz umiejętne ich stosowanie w rozwiązywaniu różnorodnych problemów.

Improving the quality of industrial products quality still is a challenge. Despite using quality control, there is a constant need to support this process to achieve an effective, precise, and complex analysis of product quality. The purpose was to develop a universal model that supports improving the quality of products via the consistent and repetitive determination of the causes of product incompatibilities and actions leading to their elimination; the model can be integrated with any quality control of the product. The model verification was carried out for the incompatibility of the mechanical seal in alloy 410, in which the porosity cluster was identified by the fluorescence method (FPI). The purpose of the analysis was created by the SMART(-ER) method. Then, a team of experts was selected from which the brainstorming (BM) was realized. After the BM method, the source of incompatibility and initial causes were identified. Then, the Ishikawa diagram (according to rule 5M + E) was developed to group the initial causes. Next, during the BM method, the main causes were selected. In the last stage, the 5Why method was used to determine improvement actions, i.e., adjust clotting parameters, introduce the obligation to undergo periodic training, and set aside a separate place for storing the electrodes. Originality is the combination of selected quality management tools in a coherent model, the main aim of which is to identify the main causes of incompatibility and improvement actions. Additionally, this model is universal and has applications with analyzing any product and the causes of its incompatibility, and it can be integrated with any product quality control. Therefore, the model can be useful for improving the quality of products in any enterprise.

Photovoltaic electricity generation is key to achieving deep decarbonization with a high degree of electrification. It is predicted that the energy sector will reduce carbon dioxide by producing electricity mainly from photovoltaic (PV) power. Although dynamic development of the implementation of photovoltaic panels has been observed, their choice considering customer specificity is still a problem. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to propose the model of choice photovoltaic panels considering customers’ expectations. It can support the choice of a photovoltaic panel of a certain quality (satisfaction of concrete customer) in combination with the cost of its purchase. The proposed model includes acquiring and then processing customers’ expectations into technical criteria, while simultaneously considering the weighting of these criteria. It is realized in a standardized way, i.e., the zero-unitarization method (MUZ), after which normalized values of the quality of the photovoltaic panels’ criteria are obtained. In turn, the quality of these products is estimated by the weighted sum model (WSM) and then integrated with purchase cost in qualitative cost analysis (AKJ). As a result, using the scale of relative states, it is possible to categorize customer satisfaction from indicating qualitative cost and selecting the photovoltaic panel expected by customers (the most satisfactory). The effectiveness of the model was demonstrated by a sensitivity analysis, after which the key PV criteria were indicated. The proposed model is intended for any entity who selects a photovoltaic panel for customers. The computerization of calculations may contribute to its utilitarian dissemination.

Rational decision-making requires assessing the advantages and disadvantages of options, including nonmarket effects (such as environmental effects). This also applies to strategic decision-making in the industrial sector to select alternative renewable energy source (RES). Often, a variety of criteria can be used to select a renewable energy source, whereas no ideal family of criteria for renewable energy selection for industry has been defined in the literature. It was concluded that there is a need to support the actions of industrial development based on RES, which will contribute significantly to overcoming the limitations of the negative effect on the environment in terms of greenhouse gas emissions. There is a clear need for a systematic and polyvalent multicriteria approach to planning in industry. Therefore, a method for choosing the preferred renewable source of electricity for industry has been developed, which considers key criteria of RES choice: Expert opinions, the costs of obtaining the energy and maintaining energy installations, and the volume of electricity from RES. This article offers a modified multicriteria selection method based on a fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (fuzzy AHP) and the technique for preference by similarity to an ideal solution (TOPSIS), integrated with a qualitative price analysis (ACJ). This new method was tested through a case study on selecting a preferred RES in Polish industrial conditions. The research results indicate that the proposed method of choosing the preferred renewable energy source can be used in industrial enterprises that strive to meet their energy needs in accordance with the principles of social responsibility.

The concept of sustainable economic development takes into account economic, social and environmental aspects and strives to achieve balance between them. One of the basic areas where it is required to revalue the current views on sustainable development is energy. The growing public awareness of environmental protection forces changes in this industry. Despite the global nature of this problem, its solution is perceived differently in various regions of the world. The unquestionable leader in introducing the idea of sustainable development economy is the European Union, where the energy sector is of key importance for the effectiveness of this process. In order to assess the sustainable energy development of the European Union countries, studies were conducted based on 13 selected indicators characterizing this sector in terms of energy, economy and environment. In order to assess the specificity of the European Union countries, these indicators were additionally compared to the gross domestic product value and the number of inhabitants of individual countries. For these cases, multi-criteria analyses were carried out using the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method. It allowed the authors to rank the European Union countries in terms of their adaptation to a sustainable energy economy. Based on the determined values of indicators versus the gross domestic product and the number of inhabitants of the countries in question, these countries were also divided into similar groups with the use of the Kohonen artificial neural networks. These groups can pursue a common energy policy in the field of sustainable development. The aim of the research was to present a new approach to the assessment of sustainable energy development of the European Union countries. The extensive ratio analysis (13 indicators of the sustainable energy development), including the economic and demographic potential of individual countries, and the use of modern tools made it possible to acquire new knowledge in the field of sustainable energy development in the European Union countries. The results should be utilized for more effective sustainable energy development of the European Union countries.

Europejski przemysł włókienniczy uznawany jest za lidera w zakresie innowacji, a współczesne tekstylia mogą przyczyniać się do wzrostu zainteresowania społeczeństwa tą branżą. Istotnym wydaje się więc przeanalizowanie dynamiki zmian w branży tekstylnej na przełomie ostatnich lat. W artykule dokonano analizy wybranych segmentów przemysłu tekstylnego w Polsce w latach 2013–2016 na podstawie danych z Głównego Urzędu Statystycznego. Dodatkowo, przeprowadzoną analizę dotyczącą sprzedaży detalicznej towarów tekstylnych według cen stałych rozszerzono o wyniki z 2017 roku. W części teoretycznej przeanalizowano obszar przemysłu tekstylnego, zwracając szczególną uwagę na funkcje tekstyliów i panujące trendy w omawianej branży. Dokonano analizy sposobu doboru odzieży ze względu na rodzaj wykonywanej pracy, a także scharakteryzowano nowoczesne rodzaje produkowanej odzieży. W części praktycznej dokonano analizy danych dotyczących m.in. sprzedaży detalicznej i dynamiki obrotów wyrobów tekstylnych, liczby sklepów tekstylnych i ich udziału w różnych grupach towarowych w Polsce jak np.: pojazdy mechaniczne, farmacja, żywność i inne. Celem opracowania jest analiza zmian przemysłu tekstylnego i na jej podstawie sprawdzenie występujących trendów w sprzedaży wyrobów tekstylnych oraz ich udziału w rynku. Przeprowadzona analiza wykazała brak wzrostu sprzedaży detalicznej tekstyliów. Wywnioskowano, że liczba sklepów tekstylnych stanowi niewielki udział w stosunku do wszystkich sklepów innego rodzaju działalności sprzedażowej, a także, że wartość sprzedaży tekstyliów w analizowanym okresie (2013–2016) była podobna.