Framework for knowledge based support in a concurrent engineering environment

摘要

A concurrent engineering approach to the design of process plant enables design decisions to be made with respect to lifecycle concerns and reduces design iteration and compromise. Computational support in this field aids engineers in making decisions, weighing up the alternatives, and providing advice that covers the lifecycle perspective. The paper addresses the requirements for computational support and presents a “model of use” scenario to support these requirements. For disparate expert systems and engineering design tools to collaborate in such an environment, a framework is required to support communication, planning, and resolution of conflict in order to provide the engineers with a collective response. The framework is described and justified in terms of the requirements identified.