An Architecture for the Semantic Enhancement of Virtual Engineering Applications

Abstract

Abstract. Virtual Engineering (VE) is defined as the integration of geometric models and related engineering tools (such as analysis, simulation, optimization and decision-making, etc), within a computerized environment that facilitates multidisciplinary and collaborative product development [1]. The focus of Virtual Engineering is to engage the human capacity for evaluation of complex systems and situations [2]. In this article, we present an architecture for the Semantic enhancement of Virtual Engineering Applications (VEA) through their embedded Virtual Engineering Tools. Our architecture follows a UserIntention-Domain schema and makes use of state of the art technologies like the Set of Experience Knowledge Structure and the Reflexive Ontologies in order to offer a better User experience with VEA. The main advantages of using Semantics in VEA can be summarized are: (i) an improved information and embedded Knowledge management, (ii) Enhancements in the search, knowledge and information sharing processes during the use of the VEA, (iii) The use of the intrinsic Knowledge embedded in the elements being described by the VEA and (iv) the empowerment of the User's knowledge and embedding of such knowledge in a structured and explicit conceptualization.

Building Domain Ontologies From Engineering Standards

“…The above benefits have been proven in diverse practical problems in our professional experience (Posada 2005;Toro 2009). It is on these experiences that we base our recommendation of the use of ES for an ontology engineer or knowledge engineer wishing to develop solutions for real-world applications.…”

“…within a computerized environment that facilitates multidisciplinary and collaborative product development (Toro 2009). …”

“…The best example is the notorious case of CIDOC-CRM (CIDOC Conceptual Reference Model; Posada 2005), whose primary role as a formal ontology is to facilitate the integration, mediation, and interchange of heterogeneous cultural heritage information from heterogeneous sources. Some of the main reasons to build an ontology as a domain model are to (Posada 2005;Morbach et al 2009;Toro 2009) . share common understanding of the structure of information, .…”

“…In our approach, we use domainspecific standards to guide the construction of the domain ontology. In this article we present a state-of-the-art on the different topics relevant to our work before providing a detailed description of our methodology for domain modeling based on engineering standards introduced in Toro et al (2009) and an example where we successfully applied our methodology. We also present the conclusions extracted from a study we performed on a group of engineers experimenting with the use our methodology.…”

Preserving Virtual Engineering Knowledge Through the Product Life Cycle

“…The reader will find more detailed explanations of the concepts presented in Toro (2009), Obrst (2003, and Gruber (1995).…”