This study explores how experts from different fields collaborate virtually on complex designproblems, focusing on how additive manufacturing (AM) and non-destructive evaluation (NDE) experts work together in a collaborative CAD environment. As technologies like AM advance rapidly, interdisciplinary teams are essential to tackle challenges such as the inspection of intricate AM parts, but differences in professional language and norms can create barriers. By examining dyads (two-person teams) in a controlled seing, the study offers foundational insights into the dynamics of virtual collaboration, emphasizing the need to integrate NDE considerations into AM design.

The findings reveal that experts often exchange knowledge within their specialties before moving todesign actions, but they do so in distinct phases rather than alternating rapidly, as traditional design theories suggest. While conversational dominance and turn-taking paerns had lile effect on design outcomes, silence was linked to improved efficiency, possibly reflecting the importance of reflection in virtual teamwork. Findings also highlighted a division of labor, where one team member might lead CAD operations while the other guided decision-making. These results provide timely insights into the challenges and opportunities of virtual interdisciplinary teamwork, particularly as hybrid work environments and virtual tools become increasingly common within engineering. This foundational work sets the stage for studying larger, more diverse teams to optimize collaboration in evolving technological landscapes.