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guided and graphic modes will be used to present the problem to the user. The solution in
the final phase will also be presented in graphic mode.
7.1 Graphic environment of decision support system for designing with plastics
Characteristically for the designers is analytical thinking and when solving various
engineering dilemmas they are used to study drawings, models, and simulations noticing all
significant details. Virtual environment described in this section is one way of presenting
plastic product design solutions to them in graphic mode as familiar working environment.
Thus, it is expected graphic modes to be a part of future material selection decision support
system applications.
Building the decision support system in graphic mode presented here aiming at a successful
and efficient performance is a compound assignment. Research should be focused in human
knowledge for problem solving formed as rules related to human cognition of modern
plastic materials' selection and correlated manufacturing processes considering also DfM
domain (Molcho et al., 2008). In addition, polymer material expertise together with human
knowledge in the field of design process should fully be acquainted. In order to develop a
graphic mode of plastic material selection decision support system, three major groups of
polymer materials: thermoplastics, thermosets and elastomers, arranged in basic structure
and presented in individual circles are proposed here (Fig.3). Within the framework of each
circle several technical features carefully selected to cover all essential material properties,
are assigned:
Mechanical properties (strength, bending strength and working temperature),
Production process (injection moulding, compression moulding, spin casting and
extrusion),
Chemical properties (resistance to base, acid, gas/oil, hot water),
Working environment (internal/external use, fire resistance),
Optical properties (colouring possibilities).
All three circles will have the same framework so the parameters, introduced to the system
by the user will reflect through all of them. The system model will provide polymer material
suggestions in discussed case, e.g. the designer receives four polymer material results, ABS,
high density Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene, and Polyamide, whose properties are
introduced in the outer ring of the circle.
All design problems have a multitude of satisfactory solutions and almost never clear best
solution. The significant feature of the system is two level results. The primary solution will
be the possible plastic material choice, many of them or none. The database of the polymer
materials will play the key role here. Afterwards, the system's knowledge base containing
human cognition of plastic material selection and DfM will be of special importance as the
system will be able to evaluate the candidates for potential material choices, which were just
over the boundaries created by introduced parameters. Thus, some polymers are going to
become a secondary solutions presented to the designer in form of notices containing
recommendations about the advantages of each suggested solution. Considering the
described decision support system with graphic mode, the enterprises will be able to
compete at the global market by selecting the optimal material for their product. For the
designers, especially for young and/or inexperienced ones, the plastic material selection
decision support system is expected to be a helpful and indispensable tool as graphic mode
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