A method of evaluating a product for use on a body used to develop a
preferred product configuration using a computer-based virtual product
development and testing system. A virtual wearer sub-model is created of
the body and a virtual product sub-model is created of a product for use
on the body. An environment sub-model is generated so that environmental
factors affecting the product or the body are also used in designing or
evaluating the product. Instructions defining how the wearer sub-model,
the product sub-model and the environment sub-model interact are
introduced in an interaction model. The sub-models and the interaction
defined by the interaction model are then combined to create a virtual
use model simulating the use of the virtual product sub-model by the
virtual wearer sub-model. The use model determines the forces,
deformations and stresses caused by movement and interaction between the
virtual wearer sub-model and the virtual product sub-model using
numerical method analysis. The results of the use model are analyzed to
evaluate the performance of product features embodied in the virtual
product sub-model such as when positioned on a virtual wearer and exposed
to typical movements or forces. The analysis evaluates the performance of
at least one product feature of the product and/or wearer body.