Title: Optimising the design of gearshafts with Knowledge-Based Engineering (KBE): an application to aircraft engines

Authors: A. Corallo, A. Margherita, G. Pascali, G. Turrisi

Addresses: Department of Innovation Engineering, University of Salento, Euro-Mediterranean Incubator, Campus Ecotekne, Via Monteroni s.n., 73100 Lecce (LE), Italy. ' Department of Innovation Engineering, University of Salento, Euro-Mediterranean Incubator, Campus Ecotekne, Via Monteroni s.n., 73100 Lecce (LE), Italy. ' Centro Cultura Innovativa d'Impresa, University of Salento, Euro-Mediterranean Incubator, Campus Ecotekne, Via Monteroni s.n., 73100 Lecce (LE), Italy. ' Centro Cultura Innovativa d'Impresa, University of Salento, Euro-Mediterranean Incubator, Campus Ecotekne, Via Monteroni s.n., 73100 Lecce (LE), Italy

Abstract: This paper shows the application of a Knowledge-Based Engineering (KBE) system to optimise the design of gearshafts used in aircraft engines. A new design process and a tool have been introduced to automate the preparation of CAD models by engineers. Time required was reduced by more than 60%, resulting in a sensible decrease in costs and indirect quality benefits. The study is based on a company case and findings are consistent with other studies in the aerospace. The paper helps understand the potential value of KBE in New Product Development (NPD) and can be a proof-of-concept for further implementations in complex engineering sectors.

Keywords: aircraft engines; design automation; gears; gearbox; gearshaft design; knowledge-based engineering; KBE; new product development; NPD; design process; CAD models; computer-aided design.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPD.2011.040266

International Journal of Product Development, 2011 Vol.13 No.3, pp.185 - 203

Published online: 27 Feb 2015 *

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