Design for X: a roadmap to apply a knowledge-based system for product optimization in a collaborative environment

The so-called “Design for” techniques aim at optimize the product in function of the different technologies determining its life-cycle. The much different information involved may be effectively managed by Knowledge Based Systems. Present work deals with the Design GuideLines (DGLs), a Knowledge-Based System developed in a collaborative environment to help the designer defining the products consistently with manufacturing and verification technologies. A roadmap for DGLs application is developed and described in detail. An example of application is reported, where the DGLs are customized for particular manufacturing and verification technologies (Fused Deposition Modeling and Coordinate Measuring Machines respectively).