Shape feature based ontological engineering product models

Ontologies are being used for product modelling in the manufacturing sector. This modelling of engineering components in the form of ontologies is more efficient and manageable if a component is divided into distinct shape features. Experience from industry shows that interoperable product models provide a good foundation for knowledge sharing between design and manufacture,. Use of Common Logic to build feature-based ontological product models shows that once the individual features are defined completely, the aggregated component can be built with little effort. This component model can then be used to associate manufacturability knowledge with it to be shared with the designer and other interested parties. Use of a standardized feature library can further enhance the interoperability of these feature based ontological models if the independent ontology development parties commit themselves to this standard library.