Pursuing the integration of the layout problem in KBE-systems through the development of room templates

In the design of oil and gas platforms, the layout problem is similar to both the bin packing problem and the multiprocessor scheduling problem, both of which are NP-hard. Yet, people are able to use their knowledge and experience to layout equipment in a close to optimal way. The question discussed here is whether this knowledge can be captured in a Knowledge Based Engineering-system, and by extension, if NP-hard problems are worth pursuing in KBE-systems. The approach presented in this paper is to create knowledge based sub-structures known as room templates. These are suggested layouts to a specific functional area within an oil and gas platform, fully parameterized, and with several options for non-ideal geometric shapes. Current preliminary results are promising.