Author(s)

N. Howarth, S. Douglas, I. Graham & M. Winfeild

Abstract

This paper discusses the reasons why unnecessary manufacturing costs can arise in product design. It also describes how the implementation of CAD within a traditional design environment can exacerbate product design in regards to its manufacturing cost. A strategy is presented which provides product designers with an insight into the manufacturing implications which arise from design decisions. The design and development of an expert system is presented which demonstrates how manufacturing costs associated with product design decisions can be evaluated and optimised. The system acts as an advisor to the designer d

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