Knowledge Based Engineering, Introduction

A computer system that uses reason and knowledge to solve complex problems is called a Knowledge Based System (KBS). Use these systems to solve engineering problems, and you have entered the field of Knowledge Based Engineering (KBE). In this course, students will have the chance to learn about an alternative approach to engineering design that relies on automation of design tasks in order to reduce time required, among other things. The interesting feature of KBE is that geometry is automatically generated and can also be optimized. This course gives an introduction to key concepts in Knowledge Based Engineering (KBE): To demonstrate the potential benefits by using KBE and examples of successful applications. To assess if a potential application is well suited for KBE implementation, and to demonstrate the difference between KBE, CAD and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Discussing object oriented techniques as used by KBE in general and in particular in the computer languages such as Knowledge Fusion and Python to support KBE implementation, and an introduction to implementing KBE applications in Knowledge Fusion and Python. Guest lectures by external experts on KBE use and development.

Knowledge: After completion of this course, the student will have knowledge of: What KBE is and typical KBE concepts, how to judge if a KBE implementation for a certain application is beneficial, what are the key elements in KBE languages, the syntax of specific languages like for example the Knowledge Fusion and general purpose programming languages applied, such as Python, for development of KBE systems.

Skills: After completion of this course, the student will have skills in: Evaluation if a KBE implementation is beneficial, gathering information for implementing KBE, coding and executing, for instance, Knowledge Fusion and Python code.

General competence: After completion of this course, the student will have general competence in: The human aspect of using KBE, how KBE effects engineering work processes, an overall understanding of the whole engineering process.

Lectures and computer assignments based on learned methods and tools. The lectures may be grouped in a few larger blocks during the semester, and a schedule for this will be set up at the beginning of the semester. The teaching is given in English and the examination papers will be given in English only. Students are free to choose Norwegian or English for written assessments.