Remembrance of things past: design precedents in libraries

Abstract The paper presents a model of case memory for design in a computerized library of design precedents. The model is composed of distinct chunks of knowledge called design stories . A formalism for the design story is developed which represents significant conceptual linkages. Stories are structured in memory according to a semantic network of the design domain content vocabulary. The lexicon of the semantic network acts as a memory index. The memory structure and indexing system are demonstrated to enhance search and to support cross-contextual browsing and exploration. The approach is applied in a pilot design aid system in the task domain of architectural design.