An integrated knowledge-based and CAD system for facilitating the implementation of concurrent engineering

A design environment for supporting the product life-cycle development process through concurrent engineering technique is presented. The proposed technique is based on concurrent engineering (CE) principles and practices, it integrates and expedites the design, development and manufacturing process. The principle features of this system are the potential for time saving during the product development cycle, while assuring that the designed part can be manufactured in house with the available manufacturing facilities at minimal cost. Design possibilities and constraints are monitored from conception through to detail design; the knowledge-based system includes constraint rules about design functionality and manufacturing processes. The complete system enables designers to improve the manufacturing process, reduce production costs and significantly improve the quality of the product. This work was in response to the need for developing a CE system which could handle a wide variety of integrated information in order to assist designers in designing world class products