Automated design process modelling and analysis using immersive virtual reality

This paper presents research which demonstrates how the detailed logging and analysis of a user’s actions in a cable harness virtual reality (VR) design and manufacturing system permits automated design task analysis and process mapping, which facilitates information push. Based on prior research, which utilised user-logging to automatically generate assembly plans and time and motion study techniques to improve the system’s efficiency, the research described here involves the extraction of design knowledge that is embedded within the log files. Once this has been extracted, it is then represented and formalised using IDEF0 diagrams, DRed graphs, PSL and XML information representations. Finally, using the design knowledge acquired, an online help system has been developed which aids a user to carry out design tasks that are similar to ones performed previously beforehand by expert users. Keyword: Design task analysis, cable harness design, user logging, design rationale, knowledge capture