This paper presents a knowledge-based approach for automating the functional design of mechanical systems. By using our proposed automated functional reasoning strategy, which is based on a heuristic search method, a set of physical behaviours can be reasoned out automatically from the desired functions. The interconnection of these behaviours is possible when the functional outputs of one are compatible to the corresponding functional requirements of the next one. Though the design space for behavioural configuration is very large, by defining its heuristic evaluation function as a fuzzy multicriteria decision-making (FMCDM) problem, the proposed heuristic search method can lead to a near optimum design solution in a reasonable time. A case study for the automated functional design of an automatic assembly system is given to illustrate the operation of the proposed heuristic search method, and to show its effectiveness in functional reasoning and optimizing the final design.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Zhang, W., Tor, S. & Britton, G. A Heuristic State–Space Approach to the Functional Design of Mechanical Systems. Int J Adv Manuf Technol 19, 235–244 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1007/s001700200029
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s001700200029