Advanced Feature Semantics Modeling Methodology and Technology Development in a Smart Product and Process Engineering Regime

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This application proposes a continued long term research program to further advance the unified feature theory established by the applicant so far. The objective is to develop a core engineering informatics technology so that it can systematically support serious industrial software package development. Essentially, the applicant's team will demonstrate the functionality for a knowledge-rich future generation design and manufacturing information system with a set of prototype modules in a coherent and generic framework. The challenging core mechanism problems addressed are complex surface feature modeling, multi-physics manufacturing process optimization and advanced material design optimization. First, feature-based surface modeling embedded with advanced geometry processing methods, will realize rapid complex and precise surface feature creation, modification and manipulation in product modeling and further deep processing, such as mesh generation in mechanical dynamics analyses. The significant applications are in those industries where generative parametric design of complex surface product or component bodies are constantly required in a compressed time frame. Second, a digital-twin method for complex manufacturing process modeling under the Industry 4.0 framework is to be developed. Physics phenomena are to be represented as a series of interaction features with driving parameters. The cyclic evolving behaviors or performance of designed processes are to be comprehensively represented and managed by a generic, flexible, and scalable method in a coherent system across companies and industries. Third, further investigation will be carried out on computational and function-driven material topology design and optimization for non-traditional material structures with varying gradient and composite constraints. The outcome will offer self-defining material topological features that support customized material requirements from product and process engineering. The targeted applications are in aerospace, energy, construction and manufacturing industries in Canada. High quality personnel training and publishing high quality papers are planned. Students will develop pilot algorithms and prototype modules with the application prospects for industry. Eventually, industry can enhance product innovation and competitiveness on a significant scale attributing to knowledge reuse, engineering method adoption, information sharing, multi-disciplinary collaboration as well as engineering lifecycle support. Technically, this research proposal supports "phenomena-engineering-product-process-material" informatics modeling cycle with open interoperability and user compatibility. The outcome algorithms, systematic modular architecture and semantic models will be useful for new generation engineering knowledge processing technology that can support the lifecycle of virtual product development and manufacturing processes with innovative new materials.