Applying knowledge-based engineering to traditional manufacturing design

The paper outlines the development of a KBE system for hot forging design using state-of-the-art technology and the Internet. The benefits of a KBE approach over a traditional design process are emphasized. The aim of the proposed KBE system is to integrate the hot forging design process into a single framework for capturing knowledge and experience of design engineers. The KBE application guides the design engineer through different stages of the design process enabling the generation of forgeable geometry from a component profile taking into account machine, material and forging company specific data, and design considerations.