1.3 Identification of the eco-coefficients
As there are N successive stages in the design process, we found it convenient to assign to each of Q, H and E aspects a specific coefficient representing the probability of approval. When ecological considerations are taken into account, these coefficients are now called "eco-coefficients”. From this standpoint, it may for stage (k) be assumed that:
• a = P(Q= xk) is an eco-coefficient representing the probability of approval in terms of quality assurance,
• в = P(H= yk |Q= xk) is an eco-coefficient representing the probability of approval with regard to health protection and known that quality is achieved; and
• Y = P(E= zk |Q =xk n H= yk) is an eco-coefficient representing the probability of approval with regard to environmental preservation, known that health and quality are achieved.
When the so-called "eco-coefficients" are taken into account during analysis and design of composite materials and structures, the terms "eco-analysis", "eco-formulation", "ecodesign", etc. can be considered to apply.