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A model of the mechanical design process based on empirical data

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  27 February 2009

David G. Ullman ,
Thomas G. Dietterich  and
Larry A. Stauffer
David G. Ullman
Affiliation:
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Oregon State University, U.S.A.
Thomas G. Dietterich
Affiliation:
Department of Computer Science, Oregon State University, U.S.A.
Larry A. Stauffer
Affiliation:
Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Idaho, U.S.A.
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Abstract

This paper describes the task/episode accumulation model (TEA model) of non-routine mechanical design, which was developed after detailed analysis of the audio and video protocols of five mechanical designers. The model is able to explain the behavior of designers at a much finer level of detail than previous models. The key features of the model are (a) the design is constructed by incrementally refining and patching an initial conceptual design, (b) design alternatives are not considered outside the boundaries of design episodes (which are short stretches of problem solving aimed at specific goals), (c) the design process is controlled locally, primarily at the level of individual episodes. Among the implications of the model are the following: (a) CAD tools should be extended to represent the state of the design at more abstract levels, (b) CAD tools should help the designer manage constraints, and (c) CAD tools should be designed to give cognitive support to the designer.

Type
Research Article
Information
AI EDAM , Volume 2 , Issue 1 , February 1988 , pp. 33 - 52
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1988

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