ONTOLOGY BUILDING FOR DESIGN KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS BASED ON PATTERNS EMBEDDED IN DESIGN‑FOR‑X METHODOLOGIES

This paper discusses a viewpoint of ontology building as a means toward a context-rich computer-supported knowlede-based design environment from the patterns embedded in design-forX methodologies. Ontology-based knowledge systems have become an efficient way for supporting intelligent human activity, but the contents of the ontology dominates their performance. On the other hand, design methodologies, typically design-for-X methodologies, are prescriptions that advocate how design should be done in particular circumstances. That is, taxonomy of design and a pattern of design operation can be seen in a design methodology. This is what an ontology is. Therefore, a design methodology can be a basis of defining ontology for a knowledge management oriented design support system, although a design methodology is originally made for practical use without taking care of its ontology. This paper discusses the contrast between design-for-X methodologies and knowledge-based design support systems, and then explores an ontology implementation from a QFD-based cost-worth analysis method as an example of design methodology. The validity and promise of the viewpoint is demonstrated through its application to a case study over a prototype system.