At its core, Knowledge Based Engineering (KBE) is the strategic use of computerised engineering knowledge to improve business competitiveness.

Engineering intent

In KBE solutions, elements from (parametric) CAD, object orientation and artificial intelligence are combined to allow representation beyond the product geometry, materials etc., provided by CAD systems. In KBE the process and engineering intent behind the products are stored in rules, rather than in the resulting geometrical data. This representation allows for automation of repetitive routine design engineering tasks, and makes the geometry in KBE much more generic and adaptive to changes in top level requirements. In addition, rules don't apply exclusively to geometry, so that reports about e.g. cost or fabrication also can be generated, provided there are rules implemented for this functionality.

KBE versus parametric CAD

The use of parametric CAD, where the geometry is stored along with defining parameters, is a very “static” approach which only allows a scaling or transformation of the components according to their context. With KBE this is taken a step further, and utilized in what can be called an intelligent scaling of previous designs and best practise solutions. This means that the geometry of a part can change itself according to its context, and that all parts in an assembly have this ability.

This principle allows for:

• capturing the engineering intent behind
• automation of repetitive design engineering tasks
• effective reuse of design
• considerations from downstream activities early in the design process
• greater consistency between different views of the product design (FEM analyses, CAD models, fabrication drawings)