A graph-based knowledge representation to support design abstraction in CAD systems

Abstract: "This paper introduces a computational framework to support the process of design abstraction. A domain-independent graph-based representation is presented to support decomposition of a design problem while modeling coupling between subproblems, multiple representations of a design at varying levels of abstraction, and analysis of a design. The representation separates knowledge into knowledge about the design instance, the domain of design, and the various levels of abstraction. The use of the representation is illustrated with two examples: the design of a two-tiered column for buckling and the design of a metal rolling operation for a continuous casting manufacturing process."