Design knowledge sharing through Internet application

This paper presents the intermediate results of a research project that aims to develop and apply Design Knowledge Servers (DesKs) in the building and construction industry. This project builds on a modelling approach called Feature-Based Modelling (FBM) that is developed to provide a dynamic environment for handling design information. The Design Knowledge Servers apply this modelling approach in a network to provide a distributed multi-user environment for sharing design knowledge. Such a network serves the requirements of collaborative design and is useful for other purposes, such as publication of formalised product datasheets. The paper briefly provides the background of the knowledge modelling approach underlying this project and describes the design and implementation issues of the Design Knowledge Servers and the services they provide.