Exploring design space in embodiment design with consideration of models accuracy

Rework tasks in collaborative development projects dealing with immature design concepts are very frequent and are responsible of cost overruns and schedule delays. Taking into account uncertainty and accuracy of models (and data) improves decision making according to strategic orientation for product development. Based on a real design of light, slender but rigid solar collector supports, multiple tools have been developed and tested to support decision making at different stages of development process. The objective of this paper is to investigate the integration of these accuracy evaluations into the design process. This proposal is validated by the industrial development and validation. (C) 2015 CIRP.