This article presents a new methodology that enables designers to include in simulations not only the physics aspects of artifact behavior, but also human actions. Future work aims at simulating cognition, automatic batch scheduling and scenario generation, and further validation. Our research approach involved: 1) literature study 2) theory deduction based on propositional logic, theory adaptation and integration 3) experimental proof-of-concept application and testing 4) quantitative data analysis of multiple simulations. We applied a proof-of-concept implementation to a practical case, demonstrating the faster-than-real-time advantage and showing how what-if studies can produce valuable outcomes. Further, simplifying a previously introduced reasoning model, we provide a novel concept and theory underlying scenario-bundle-based bulk simulation with automata-based representations. We postulated this to be applicable especially if computation-intensive physics phenomena can be neglected or simplified, for instance in information-intensive products. But what if we could simulate faster than humans interact? Then, non-interactive setups with virtual human subjects offer new opportunities: fast simulations of long-term use or trials varying designs and users can increase chances of uncovering use-related problems. Researchers have put much effort in optimising physics simulations for real-time interaction with human subjects in virtual product testing. This proof of concept has been successfully tested on a series of sample products. The thesis presents the concept and the fundamentals of the method, as well as the development of a proof-of concept implementation of a design support tool. This makes it possible for designers to explore variations of use processes through simulation. The responses specified in scenario bundles can be condition-dependent, so that different concatenated simulations emerge when variations are applied to the product design, to characteristics of human users, and to the surroundings of use. This control causes intermediate changes in parameters and thus alters the course of the simulated process. During computer simulation, a scenario bundle controls a virtual model of the human user. The new method introduces scenario bundles, which designers specify as logical instructions that represent their conjectures of how human users react on possible artefact behaviours. It does so without requiring deployment of real human subjects or investing in interactive virtual environments. To enhance the effectiveness of engineering simulations in product development, this thesis presents a new approach that enables designers to include human responses and reactions to artefact behaviour in their investigations.
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