Abstract
This paper presents a description of an Intelligent Design Environment (IDE) based on AI tools. Fundamentally an IDE is based on the coexistence of algorithmic procedures, of common usage in Mechanical Engineering Design methods, and knowledge based systems where non algorithmic knowledge is dealt with. This synthesis leads to the development of a powerful design environment where the two types of knowledge mutually enhance their capabilities. Starting from the results obtained during an EC funded research programme, aimed at the optimisation of gear transmissions using AI tools, the paper presents structures and particularities of an IDE that can be used in any domain of mechanical engineering design. The application to gear transmission design is then described in detail including the data acquisition module, the inference module, reasoning strategy and user interface. The system capabilities are critically discussed, particularly by the controversial point of view of the utility of AI methods and tools in Mechanical Engineering Design.
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