On the Conception of a Multi-agent Analysis and Optimization Tool for Mechanical Engineering Parts

A key tool for mechanical engineering are computer-aided design (CAD) systems for determining the product shape and specifying the necessary production information. Today’s CAD systems include functionalities for knowledge-based engineering which allow the partly automation of design tasks and thus shorten lead time in product development. Another way for this is concurrent engineering which means to involve experts from different domains early in the design process. In order to transfer and integrate this approach in knowledge-based engineering, the implementation of a multi-agent system is a possible way. Such systems consist of entities that are capable of autonomous action, interact intelligently with their environment, communicate and collaborate. This paper proposes a concept and shows a basic implementation for such a multi-agent system as an extension for standard CAD software. The agents take the role of domain experts like manufacturing technologists, jig designer, etc. and analyse as well make suggestions for the optimization of the design of mechanical engineering parts.