Product modeling framework for behavioral performance evaluation at design stage

In this paper we present a framework for product behavioral performances evaluation during design process. It is based on the behavioral modeling approach and uses an evaluation method that determines performance indicators for different domains of the lifecycle. We are mainly focused on semantic and fuzzy domains that are complex to formalize. We show how the product design represented in a CAD system can be analyzed to evaluate the product performances at some specific domains. After a short state of art on product modeling methods we define a FBS product behavioral modeling approach based on the modeling formalism. Here the product is described as a conceptual object with properties and formal criteria evaluation methods for domains. Then a behavioral performance evaluation procedure is detailed and we outline software architecture for implementation in a system. An application for product maintainability assessment of an industrial trailer illustrates the approach. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.