Virtual prototypes become more and more relevant in product development since they permit the early testing of machines and include the customer in the product development process. Virtual prototyping can help to decrease costs in service, development and sales as well as marketing. Hence, the creation of virtual prototypes is still a resource insensitive project. This article presents the results of the research project “INPROVY”. The approach uses a model based method for systematic creation of simulation models. It includes the product management perspective of simulation models and uses reference models for higher reuse. Based on a mobile construction vehicle, the creation of various simulation models and the management of product variants are discussed.
