A Flat Composite Panel Design Advisory System Using Knowledge Based and Case Based Reasoning

Abstract

A method of cooperatively using Knowledge Based and Case Based Reasoning is proposed to assist designers in the design of flat composite panel structures. A Prototype Design Advisory system is constructed of heuristic and experiential rules which are acquired from composites design experts, and published text which is implemented in the CLIPS Knowledge Based System shell. The system includes design cases of previous composites design scenarios implemented in a Case Based Reasoning System using DesignMUSE. The cases all depict design of composites applied to commercial and military aircraft. The application of heuristic rules and prior similar design cases is focused upon the early stages of the design process. It is believed that such a design advisory system can aid in preventing unforeseen mistakes during the design and manufacture of composite structures, can assist in predicting the results of candidate designs, and can ultimately reduce the design cycle time.