Cost Calculation with a Feature-based CAD System using Modules for Calculation, Comparison and Forecast

This paper describes a procedure for calculating costs concurrent with the design process. The different modules of the computer program 'IKF' are described. The modules include those for cost calculation, comparison and forecast. Prior to developing the computer program, a manual procedure was designed and developed. Upon testing, the group with IKF took 40-50% more time and designed products that were about 80% more costly than the group using the IKF system. This procedure was then used as the model for the cost modules in a feature-based computer-aided design program. Test cases dealing with sheet-metal design are described which demonstrate and quantify the advantages of this system.