Investigating Modeling in Early Robust Design – A Study with the Modeling Method of Embodiment Function Relation and Tolerance Model

Robust design (RD) aims to design systems that are insensitive to variation, reducing costly iterations in later product development stages. Evaluation of the early RD methods, often case-based like the modeling method with the EFRT model, lacks empirical investigation with novice applicants, which hinders further research into the success criteria of these methods. In this paper, a cross-over study evaluating the applicability and efficacy of the modeling method revealed its support for early RD. This encourages further RD research and provides a foundation for future investigation.