Combining FEA and KBE Techniques to Automate the Analysis Process - A Foresight Vehicle Programme 2002-01-0828

An integral part of the design route for many components is the analysis of them using finite element (FE) techniques. Previous work has shown that it is possible to automate the pre-processing stage of an FE analysis using a Knowledge Based Engineering (KBE) environment. As a result of the analysis the designer will either approve the design or make design changes which are based on rules involving geometry modification or a material change for example. It is thus feasible that this process could also be automated within a KBE environment. This paper describes the research currently being undertaken within the UK Foresight Vehicle programme, to develop a KBE environment for the analysis, results interpretation and design modification of an engine mounting bracket.