Kawasaki Heavy Industries is developing a new design support system covering the detail structure design stage, and known as K-KARDS/Structure (Kawasaki's knowledge-based, automatic and rapid design system for hull structure). This system is expected to reduce design lead times and enhance modelling efficiency. It will initially be employed for engine room and stern ship construction, with subsequent extension to the fore parts and deckhouses of newbuildings. Its application range is expected to include the outfitting design phase.

Capability of the knowledge-based design support system, encapsulating a distinctly different approach from procedural methodology, has been verified through the creation of a prototype for engine room structures, and entailing the definition of up to 70 design regions, or structural blocks. Significant feature of the system is its emphasis on combining product model technology with practical technical knowledge founded on work experience. This approach bodes well for the reliability of the structure model. K-KARDS/Structure, which combines the modelling macro scripts with the knowledge base, has already been applied to the engine room construction of a Capesize bulker. It is claimed that the system will enable the requisite Key Plan Model to be created within a few days, at most, and will assure concurrentengineering with the ensuing outfitting design based on the model.