A knowledge-based computational tool for creative conceptual design

Mechanizing engineering conceptual design processes is desirable. Mechanization allows designers to focus their efforts on their irreplacable role in engineering design to improve design performance. This dissertation explores the application of knowledge based system techniques to computational tool development for creative conceptual design.; This investigation of engineering design focuses on the perspective of problem-solving in novel situations. A tool was designed to generate justifiable design concept alternatives which can satisfy the system inputs{dollar}sb-{dollar}functional specifications. Building the tool involved elements of (1) knowledge representation in conceptual design; (2) design process modeling; (3) problem-solving methodology; (4) design creativity; (5) domain knowledge application (force measurement); (6) design decision making; and (7) software engineering. These issues have no clear definition and have different interpretations from different perspectives. No design algorithm or existing referential concept is available for novel design problems. Because the conceptual design procedure is not algorithmic, designers cannot inspect the rationale for design creation with conventional computer aids.; I built a hybrid knowledge based system, named SPOCK and used a one dimensional force transducer design for an example. Knowledge based systems encode knowledge declaratively so that the knowledge being used and manipulation of that knowledge is transparent to designers. In SPOCK, a design concept is represented as a specific configuration of basic episodes. The Reverse Analysis design method was implemented as a design plan. A constraint satisfaction mechanism reasons about the parametric design synthesis task. Another mechanism synthesizes components for the configuration design task.; The results of this research indicate that knowledge based systems can be applied to engineering conceptual design. Designer's creativity and productivities can be enhanced because SPOCK could present the designer with quality design alternatives.