Text2shape Deep Retrieval Model: Generating Initial Cases for Mechanical Part Redesign under the Context of Case-Based Reasoning

Retrieving the similar solutions from the historical case base for new design requirements is the first step in mechanical part redesign under the context of case-based reasoning. However, the manual retrieving method has the problem of low efficiency when the case base is large. Additionally, it is difficult for simple reasoning algorithms (e.g., rule-based reasoning, decision tree) to cover all the features in complicated design solutions. In this regard, a text2shape deep retrieval model is established in order to support text description-based mechanical part shapes retrieval, where the texts are for describing the structural features of the target mechanical parts. More specifically, feature engineering is applied to identify the key structural features of the target mechanical parts. Based on the identified key structural features, a training set of 1000 samples was constructed, where each sample consisted of a paragraph of text description of a group of structural features and the corresponding 3D shape of the structural features. RNN and 3D CNN algorithms were customized to build the text2shape deep retrieval model. Orthogonal experiments were used for modeling turning. Eventually, the highest accuracy of the model was 0.98; therefore, the model can be effective for retrieving initial cases for mechanical part redesign.

Data-driven intelligent computational design: Method, techniques, and applications

Data-driven intelligent computational design (DICD) is a research hotspot emerged under the context of fast-developing artificial intelligence. It emphasizes on utilizing deep learning algorithms to extract and represent the design features hidden in historical or fabricated design process data, and then learn the combination and mapping patterns of these design features for the purposes of design solution retrieval, generation, optimization, evaluation, etc. Due to its capability of automatically and efficiently generating design solutions and thus supporting human-in-the-loop intelligent and innovative design activities, DICD has drawn the attentions from both academic and industrial fields. However, as an emerging research subject, there are still many unexplored issues that limit the theorical development and industrial application of DICD, such as specific dataset building, engineering design related feature engineering, systematic methods and techniques for DICD implementation, more entry points for DICD application in the entire product design life cycle, etc. In this regard, a systematic theorical reference for DICD implementation is established, including a general workflow for DICD project planning, an overall framework for DICD project implementation, the computing mechanisms for DICD implementation, key enabling technologies for detailed DICD implementation, and three application scenarios of DICD. The works provide a brief research status, key research topics, and more importantly a general road map for DICD implementation.