Abstract
Testing is an integral element of product development. Depending on the current step of the product development process, different types of experiments are required to deliver the information necessary for the evaluation of the development progress and anticipatory decision making regarding future product properties. This article introduces an approach for efficient and purposeful experiment design and test facility selection, supported by a theoretical analysis of experimental procedures and adequate statistical methods. The practical application of this methodical approach is demonstrated utilising the analysis of a gear unit, an integral subsystem of the conventional power train with decisive influence on the vehicle comfort.
Keywords: Development method, development tool, statistical experiment design, testing, gear rattling