Knowledge Base Repository
In addition to research papers, the Design Society is developing several valuable resources for those interested in the study of design. These include a repository of PhD theses, a library of case studies and transcripts of design activities, and an archive of our newsletters. Please note that these resources are accessible exclusively to Design Society members.
Knowledge Extraction from CAD Models: Modern Applications of Design Feature Graphs
Sarah Steininger, Florian Tenzer, Johannes Fottner
Type:
Year:
2025
Editor:
Dieter Krause, Kristin Paetzold, Sandro Wartzack
Author:
Series:
DfX
Institution:
Technische Universität München, BMW Group
Section:
Model-Based Development / Systems Engineering
Page(s):
10
DOI number:
Abstract:
Increasing competitive pressure and shorter product life cycles necessitate more efficient development processes. Although CAD models contain valuable design knowledge, particularly design feature information (DFI) such as parameters and modelling logic, this potential has remained largely untapped. However, modern technologies such as knowledge graphs, graph neural networks and natural language processing offer new opportunities for exploiting this information. This paper presents a structured methodology for identifying and evaluating DFI-based applications that can improve product development. Based on a literature review, expert interviews and iterative evaluation, eight applications were developed to address key challenges, ranging from design reuse and model quality analysis to manufacturing integration and requirements traceability. The results demonstrate the potential of DFI to act as a semantic bridge between engineering disciplines, paving the way for future research and the industrial implementation of knowledge-based CAD applications.
Keywords:
