A Plan-Based Framework for Design: Methodologic Foundations

Abstract: This paper describes a plan-based framework that can be configured for design in different domains. The case for design by planning is argued by examining the requirements of an adequate framework for design and showing how the planning approach satisfies the requirements. Using the plan-based framework, the knowledge requirements of design, design transformations, multiagent design, learning, and creativity are explored. Multiagent design can be realized through delegated planning; and learning, through the chunking of successful design plans into summary plan operators. Routine design is shown to be equivalent to the reuse of stored design plans as summary plan operators; innovative design, to the combination and modification of previous plans; and creative design, to the automatic creation of new plan operators from domain axioms. An example of the conceptual/preliminary design of a light industrial building performed by a prototype plan-based system is described.