Utilizing the Embodiment Function Relation and Tolerance Model for Robust Concept Design

The early use of Robust Design (RD) supports the development of product concepts with low sensitivity to variation, which offers advantages for reducing the risk of costly iterations. Due to the lack of approaches for early evaluation of product robustness, the embodiment-function-relation and tolerance (EFRT-) model was developed, which combines the contact and channel approach and tolerance graphs. The information exchange of both approaches offers a high potential for reliable robustness evaluation results. However, that potential currently relies unused, since the link between applicable robustness criteria and the extended information is missing. To solve this problem, four research steps were determined: (1) understanding of robustness, (2) collection of RD principles, (3) identification of EFRT-model information and (4) mapping of RD principles and information. The results show nine adapted RD principles, the identified model information for the robustness evaluation, the evaluation criteria as well as their mapping. Utilizing the mapping and the proposed criteria in this contribution, a more comprehensive robustness evaluation in early stages is enabled.