Quantitative Inference in a Mechanical Design Compiler

Abstract

This paper presents the ideas underlying a computer program that takes as input a schematic of a mechanical or hydraulic power transmission system, plus specifications and a utility function, and returns catalog numbers from predefined catalogs for the optimal selection of components implementing the design. Unlike programs for designing single components or systems, this program provides the designer with a high level 'language' in which to compose new designs. It then performs some of the detailed design process for him. The process of 'compilation', or transformation from a high to a low level description, is based on a formalization of quantitative inferences about hierarchically organized sets of artifacts and operating conditions. This allows compilation without the exhaustive enumeration of alternatives. The paper introduces the formalism, illustrating its use with examples. It then outlines some differences from previous work, and summarizes early tests and conclusions. Keywords: Computer aided design; Computer programs; Mechanical design; Quantitative inference; Qualitative reasoning; Constraint propagation.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 1989
Accession Number
ADA209900

Entities

People

  • Allen C. Ward
  • Warren P. Seering

Organizations

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Autonomy
  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Application Software
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Compilers
  • Computer Languages
  • Computer Programs
  • Computer-Aided Design
  • Computers
  • Engineering
  • Expert Systems
  • Information Systems
  • Knowledge Based Systems
  • Language
  • Manufacturing
  • Military Research
  • Molecular Mechanics Methods
  • Real Numbers
  • Reasoning

Readers

  • Computer Science.
  • Software Engineering.
  • Theoretical Analysis.

Technology Areas

  • AI & ML