Parameter coordination and optimization for collaborative design based on the constraints network

This paper presents an approach based on the constraints network to support collaborative design. Firstly, from the point of view of collaborative design, the model of the constraints network for coordination and optimization is studied. Secondly, a general consistency algorithm is designed to predict conflict and refine the intervals for parameter coordination, which verify the design stage early in the process and assist the designers in determining design variables to reduce the multidisciplinary iterations in collaborative design. Finally, a constraints-network-based parameter optimization model is established, and the multiobjective optimization approach is presented. The method is demonstrated by a bogie parameter design problem.