Design as a Problem of Requirements Explication

§ Knowledge Media Institute, The Open University, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA, UK; Email: [email protected] Abstract. Engineering design is a human activity using different knowledge sources. From the point of availability it is possible to distinguish well-structured, explicit knowledge as opposed to tacit, implicit and often experience-based knowledge. Each type plays a particular role in engineering design, and thus in knowledge-based design support systems (KBDSS). This paper addresses several issues with KBDSS. It begins with a discussion of the processes underlying engineering design. Further, it presents a theoretical formalism for engineering design and shows the role of reflection in design. Proposed framework is further illustrated on a simple example, which is followed by some suggestions for further research.