Computable Dynamic Design Repository for Product Data Representation

The product representation for storing design information presented in this paper is based on a dynamic object-oriented data model. This model stores design data as they are generated during design in a computable format, as well as supports case-based reasoning and sharing of data among all design teams. This model represents each entity in the product as a generic container that encompasses its form, function, behavior, taxonomy, composition and relationships. Different features can be added dynamically, i.e. during run time, to the container as needed. The model integrates multiple views of various design teams, supports dynamic design evolution and exploration, and is extensible. Finally, the model is computable because it provides means of establishing quantitative and qualitative relationships between model parameters and entities. Any subsequent change of related model parameters or entities will cause an automatic controlled propagation of changes to take place in dependent parameters and entities.