PICCSS: problem interactive clarification and concurrent solving system

This paper proposes the system named as ‘PICCSS’(Problem Interactive Clarification and Concurrent Solving System). PICCSS is developed for application of the Concurrent Problem Solving (CPS) framework. The CPS framework provides a new problem solving paradigm. The main features of CPS are 1) connection-oriented knowledge representation, 2) top-down function refinement, and 3) integration of spatial and temporal structures. PICCSS can support a designer on conceptual design problems where a product and manufacturing processes should be considered. After illustrating PICCSS architecture, the sequence of using PICCSS to design a product and make its manufacturing plan is described using an example of designing a certain mechanical pump. This experimental case study shows that PICCSS can deal with the conceptual design and provide not only a rough product draft but also a rough manufacturing plan very efficiently. This paper demonstrates these results with the reusable knowledge for mechanical design. Finally, our system is evaluated from some viewpoints and future enhancements to be made are given.