A Knowledge Based Approach for Product Variant Design

Abstract

In order to solve the problem that design resources can not be effectively reused, variant design is used in engineering field. Knowledge is the key factor implementing strategy of variant design. This paper puts forward the knowledge classification, process model, information resource base and reasoning model for variant design. Knowledge of variant design is classified into product domain knowledge, variant design methodology and basis theory knowledge, variant design process combines top-down mode to bottom-top mode, its corresponding information resource base includes case base, knowledge base and database. CBR is the core for design reasoning. The frame of knowledge-based variant design system includes resource base, resource management, variant design and evaluation subsystem. Using the system, designer could reuse design resource and reduce developing cost.