Optimising the design of gearshafts with Knowledge-Based Engineering (KBE): an application to aircraft engines.

This paper shows the application of a Knowledge-Based Engineering (KBE) system to optimise the design of gearshafts used in aircraft engines. A new design process and a tool have been introduced to automate the preparation of CAD models by engineers. Time required was reduced by more than 60%, resulting in a sensible decrease in costs and indirect quality benefits. The study is based on a company case and findings are consistent with other studies in the aerospace. The paper helps understand the potential value of KBE in New Product Development (NPD) and can be a proof-of-concept for further implementations in complex engineering sectors