A Knowledge-Based Systems Approach to the Layout Design of Large Made-to-Order Products

Abstract

Spatial engineering is an activity of significant importance when designing large, complex, Made-To-Order (MTO) engineering products. This paper describes the progress of research into the problem of generating layouts for such products and details an approach which combines the benefits of knowledge based systems technology together with the optimization technique of simulated annealing. The discussion begins by describing the fundamental nature of a basic layout problem and highlights the nature of the complex issues that often arise when dealing with more realistic and practical problems. The particular focus for this paper is the knowledge-based system part of the overall layout generation system, although a brief description of the philosophy adopted and methodology used for generating alternative arrangements is provided too. The way in which parts of this system work themselves and in conjunction with each other have been dealt with elsewhere [1]. In this paper, details of the configuration of the knowledge based system and the form and nature of knowledge contained within it are described. In addition, two case studies are presented which demonstrate the potential scope of the system in the context of its application to generating solutions for a range of different types of layout problem. Finally, a number of valuable conclusions arising from the research are summarized, These relate directly to the approach adopted to generating solutions based on combining knowledge-based systems with the simulated annealing technique.