A Semantic Information Model for Capturing and Communicating Design Decisions

A semantic information model to improve reuse and communication of engineering design knowledge is presented in this paper. We consider design to be a process involving a sequence of decisions informed by the current state of information. As such, the information model developed is structured to reflect the conceptualizations of engineering design decisions with a particular emphasis on semantically capturing design rationale. Through the approach presented, knowledge reuse is achieved by communicating design rationale. A case study is presented to illustrate two key features of the approach: (1) seamless integration of separate modular domain ontologies and instance knowledge related to engineering design that are needed to support decision making and (2) the explicit documentation of design rationale through design decisions

A Semantic Framework for Reusing Decision Making Knowledge in Engineering Design

A semantic framework to improve automated reasoning, retrieval, reuse and communication of engineering design knowledge is presented in this research. We consider design to be a process involving a sequence of decisions informed by the current state of information. As such, the information model developed is structured to reflect the conceptualizations of engineering design decisions with a particular emphasis on semantically capturing design rationale. Based on a description logic formalism, the information model was implemented using the Web Ontology Language (OWL), which provides a semantically rich and sufficiently broad specification of design decisions capable of supporting the application of any specific decision-making method. Through this approach knowledge reuse is achieved by communicating design rationale and facilitating semantic-based retrieval of knowledge. A case study is presented to illustrate three key features of the approach: 1) seamless integration of separate modular domain ontologies and instance knowledge related to engineering design that are needed to support decision making, 2) the explicit documentation of design rationale through design decisions, and 3) the application of an automated method for matching and retrieving stored knowledge. The automated retrieval method is implemented using the Semantic Web Rule Language (SWRL) and serves as an example of the type of reasoning services that can easily be achieved by formally and semantically representing design knowledge

Adhesive mounting of sensitive optical components for a spaceflight application

This report evaluates adhesive bonding techniques used to mount an optic intended for spaceflight application. Based on launch and operational environments, finite elements analysis and information gathered from previous programs, three variables were identified. Eight test samples were designed, fabricated and then tested for the effect that extreme temperatures have on the adhesive joint between the optic and mount. Results revealed that the adhesive's tensile strength was not affected by thermal stresses; however, stability results were inconclusive

EVALUATION OF CHILD YIELD WITHIN RECENTLY COMPLETED HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS IN THE BOROUGH OF BRENT

Recently completed housing developments in the Borough of Brent are straining the already crowded school system. To accommodate for student growth, the developers are required to contribute financially for additional school places. Empirical data was collected through door-to-door surveys to determine the number of school aged children in selected developments. Based on the analysis of the data, the group was able to determine potential child yield factors so that the Borough of Brent could substantiate the monetary contributions made by developers