Implicit learning by means of a Knowledge-Based Engineering System

Three-dimensional CAD -models are representing the foundation of modern product development in different kinds of branches. Even medium-sized and small-scale enterprises use powerful CAD-software, as they offer a huge possibility to increase the efficiency in the development process. Hence, learning the handling of such programs is part of many different engineering studies. The depth of education is varying from the learning of the basic functions of solid- and surface- modeling up to advanced techniques of automated product design. However, investigations show that the potential of the provided software is only used rudimentarily. Furthermore, the continually progressing development of those software-systems demands a constant learning process of the users, to ensure that they are capable to exhaust the full potential. Due to the fact, that this causes high monetary and temporary effort, it is not practiced in most companies. Goal of this paper is to state an approach, how the application of modern virtual tools can be used for efficiency enhancement, without demanding specific know-how (concerning the construction methods as well as the particular component) of the user. Therefore, a Knowledge Based Engineering System is introduced, which includes the necessary product- and process-knowledge, which can be accessed by the user according to the respective situation. An experimental study is performed and evaluated to proof the effects of the introduced system.