Knowledge structure generation and modularization based on binary matrix factorization in engineering design

Implementing improved effective knowledge reuse and modular design in the earlier stages of engineering design have been the development trend over several decades. However, knowledge capture in the field either remains heavily human involved or is difficult for forming structured knowledge that can be directly utilized by computers. Moreover, modularization is usually performed when system components are fully understood, which fails to influence the design process in an earlier stage. In this paper, we propose a knowledge representation method to capture the knowledge in the design documents intelligently and organize them in a structured manner. A modularization method using binary matrix factorization is also put forward to optimize the design process. Case studies of the design of electro-hydraulic dram brake and power supply are used to exemplify how modularization can be accomplished by matrix factorization and how knowledge structure is generated with computer support. Finally, several research problems are discussed.