Hypermedia as a tool (for CAD support)

Describes the use of hypermedia as a tool with application to the development of a design support system for externally pressurised journal bearings. The design support system was developed using a method which integrates hypermedia, artificial intelligence and intelligent database technologies together with conventional bearing design techniques. The integration of these technologies makes it possible for the system user to rapidly retrieve design information, efficiently use the bearing expertise embedded in the system, and achieve an optimal bearing design, taking into account both numerical and qualitative issues. The system was mainly implemented in HyperCard on a Macintosh computer. With this system, an appropriate externally pressurised journal bearing design can readily be achieved. The system can also be used as a knowledge bank for educational purposes.<>