A Knowledge-Based System for the Configuration and Pricing of Network Management Systems

Abstract

Engineering design is a complex process requiring solutions that meet the customer’s requirements within the constraints of design rules and cost. The initial phase of the design process usually requires a combination of creativity and expertise to translate the requirements into a technically feasible solution. While it would be extremely difficult to build creativity into a tool, providing active support for the designer can help to ensure that constraints are not overlooked. Later, the detailed design generates a range of outputs such as parts lists and cost breakdown. These tasks are laborious and potentially error-prone and thus suited to automation.