Intelligent information retrieval for web-based design data repository

As the networks (i.e., Internet and Intranet) proliferate all over the world, it is inevitable to move some (or all) enterprise activities into the virtual spaces. Although the core in this new enterprise environment is at ready and effective exchange of information, it is not an easy task due to the heterogeneity of information resources. In this paper, a Web-based design data repository is presented for facilitating seamless sharing of product data among application systems in virtual enterprises. Two types of knowledge, that is, metadata and ontology, and applications of these to intelligent information retrieval of design data are explained. That knowledge provides users with a dynamically reconfigurable map of design data that helps them to locate proper information and enables a content-based search that can improve search effectiveness throughout the product life cycle.