Using factors associated with the lean concept in PD for identifying potential for design automation (Knowledge Based Engineering)

This paper discusses Lean principles in Product Development (PD) in a context aimed to identify potential for implementing automation in design, also referred to as Knowledge Based Engineering (KBE). The background for a proposed questionnaire for evaluating the PD process in a company is presented. Questions and statements for a detailed questionnaire suited for evaluating the potential for automation in design are given. The purpose of the paper is to trigger feedback before practical implementation of the proposed questionnaire in industrial companies.