Ontology-based approach in hybrid engineering knowledge representation for stamping die design

Abstract

This work is concerned with building Knowledge Based Engineering Applications aimed at Small and Middle Enterprises (SME). In the article an analysis of shortcomings current approaches is presented. In addition an innovative point of view at the building of such tools is demonstrated and a general framework for dealing with knowledge is proposed and discussed. Development of a tool to support stamping die design for an automotive supplier as a case study is presented. The main concept assumes an application which consists of two kernels: knowledge base and retrieval system. The retrieval system is a control module which retrieves required information from knowledge base. In proposed solution knowledge is represented with means of two different approaches: ontological knowledge base, which is dedicated for declarative knowledge and procedural knowledge, which is represented in advanced parametrically-driven associative geometrical models. Such a knowledge base is readable for both a computer agent and expert. The solution bridges the gap between human oriented knowledge and formal knowledge models and is aimed at solving synthetic and deductive tasks, especially configuration design. © 2010 Springer-Verlag London Limited.