Knowledge-Based Engineering(KBE)

KBE represents a merging of object-oriented programming, artificial intelligence, and computer aided design. KBE systems aim to capture product and process information to allow businesses to model engineering processes, and then use the model to automate all or part of the process.
A product model represents the engineering intent behind the product design, storing the how, why, and what of a design. It is a computer representation of the product design process and can contain information on both the product and the processes that are used to create the part. A KBE product model can also use information outside its environment, such as physics-based analysis, databases, spreadsheets, legacy programs, and cost models.

Many CAD systems provide “design automation” capabilities. These systems typically allow parts, assemblies, and drawings to be parametrically varied. However, capabilities for extensive changes to the product configuration are often restricted, and the ability to embed rules is limited to simple logical statements.

KBE systems provide far more power and flexibility in the development of design automation systems. These systems are designed to allow complex rules, heuristics, artificial intelligence, and agents to be embedded in the system. In addition, some KBE systems provide more direct control over geometry and topology as well as more advanced geometry introspection capabilities. KBE systems leverage reuse of corporate design knowledge to the maximum extent possible, eliminating mundane tasks within the complex process of transforming a product concept into production-ready details.

The ultimate goal of a KBE system should be to capture the best design practices and engineering expertise into a corporate knowledge base.

Find out more about TechnoSoft’s KBE capabilities: