Decision data model in virtual product development

In this paper an approach is proposed to support decision-makers, namely engineers, in the product development process. This is done by implementing a method for decision presentation and documentation in virtual product development based on a proposed decision data model. Validation of the implemented systematic approach is presented and applied in the context of a profile gasket from the Freudenberg Group. It's application to engineering problems and the benefit for decision support is shown particularly for sealing technologies and is finally discussed.