Modeling design processes

TL;DR: A computable model is discussed that can explain most parts of the cogni- tive model and also interpret the descriptive model, and a design simulator is implemented that can trace design processes in which design specifications and design solutions are gradually revised as the design proceeds.

Abstract: One of the major problems in devel- oping so-called intelligent comput- er-aided design (CAD) systems (ten Hagen and Tomiya- ma 1987) is the representation of design knowledge, which is a two-part process: the repre- sentation of design This article discusses building a computable design process model, which is a prerequisite for realizing intelligent computer-aided design sys- tems. First, we introduce general design theory, from which a descriptive model of design pro- cesses is derived. In this model, the concept of metamodels plays a crucial role in describing the evolutionary nature of design. Second, we show a cognitive design process model obtained by observing design processes using a protocol anal- ysis method. We then discuss a computable model that can explain most parts of the cogni- tive model and also interpret the descriptive model. In the computable model, a design pro- cess is regarded as an iterative logical process realized by abduction, deduction, and circum- scription. We implemented a design simulator that can trace design processes in which design specifications and design solutions are gradually revised as the design proceeds.