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Graeme Britton

Raffles University, President's Office, Emeritus

Raffles Education Corporation, Raffles University Iskandar, President

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I am retired Now.
I have over 35 years academic experience in universities in Finland, New Zealand and Singapore. I have good knowledge of the tertiary education sectors in Australia, Finland, Malaysia, and Singapore.

I have a unique, international, multicultural, multidisciplinary experience and a proven track record in communication and interpersonal skills. I have over 35 years experience conducting applied research in industry, including company-specific projects, national projects, and international collaborative research projects.

I am an expert in systems theory and practice, especially using graph theoretic methods.

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National University of "Kyiv-Mohyla Academy"

Middle Tennessee State University

Kansas State University

The University of New South Wales

Armando Marques-Guedes

UNL - New University of Lisbon

Venceslau Tavares Costa Filho

Universidade de Pernambuco - UPE (Brasil)

Dr Margaret Satya Rose

University of Bath

LUISS Guido Carli

Copenhagen Business School, CBS

University of British Columbia

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Books by Graeme Britton

Design Synthesis: integrated product and manufacturing system design

CAD Solid Modelling & Interactive NC Programming

Papers by Graeme Britton

Design synthesis – integrated product and manufacturing system design

Production Planning & Control, 2015

Adopting scientific molding methodology in a simulation-based approach to optimize injection fill time

The Journal of injection molding technology, 2002

This paper explains how current best practice for qualifying and setting up plastic injection mol... more This paper explains how current best practice for qualifying and setting up plastic injection molds, scientific molding, can be incorporated into a simulation environment to improve part and mold designs. The study is limited to analysis of injection fill time. The paper describes scientific molding and the procedure to determine the optimal fill time. This is followed by a discussion on how scientific molding practices can be adapted to a simulation environment. A worked example is presented to clarify the concepts and illustrate the approach. A software implementation of the approach has been developed using Solid Edge and Moldflow simulation software.

Techniques in Knowledge-Based Expert Systems for the Design of Engineering Systems

Intelligent Knowledge-Based Systems, 2005

... The major challenge is to develop a 'design-centric' expert system that incorporate... more

A Graph Theoretic Operations Sequencing Approach for Progressive Die Design

Proceedings of the 34th International MATADOR Conference, 2004

Traditionally strip layout is a manual, experience-based activity. Automation of strip layout is ... more Traditionally strip layout is a manual, experience-based activity. Automation of strip layout is desirable to improve productivity and the quality of design, and to provide computer-aided tools for design. One important, but very difficult, task in automated strip layout design is the determination of a good sequence of stamping operations so that the part can be stamped correctly and efficiently. This paper presents our work to develop a novel, graph-theoretic, operations sequencing method that is capable of generating a stamping sequence automatically, taking into account practical stamping constraints. A graph is used to represent a stamping part and define the relationships between its stamping features. These stamping features are then clustered into workstation sets using a graph colouring algorithm. Next, the sets are ordered to determine an optimal sequence of workstations. The objective function for the optimisation is ‘minimisation of the torque difference between two sides of the progressive die’. The proposed approach can speed up the progressive die design process by automating the strip layout design.

A computerized design environment for functional modeling of mechanical products

Proceedings of the fifth ACM symposium on Solid modeling and applications, 1999

This paper presents the strategies and the methods for the development of a computerized function... more This paper presents the strategies and the methods for the development of a computerized functional modeling design environment to support the conceptual phase of mechanical product design. A new design concept called behavioral scenario is introduced. The modeling process begins with an initial function decomposition and a conversion of the required function into immediate function. This information is then used to develop a causal behavioral process that consists of a network of sub-behaviors. Each sub-behavior is identified by matching its function (intended output action) and the required driving input (intended input action) with the behavioral scenario of a relevant physical phenomenon. The corresponding physical components for each sub-behavior can then be constructed, with respect to the derived behavioral process, to form a preliminary functional design model. Based on the above strategies, a functional modeling design environment has been developed. It consists of an initial function decomposition and conversion module, a causal behavioral process generation module, and a library of domainrelevant physical phenomena. The modules and associated functional modeling tools are described. A design case study is presented to illustrate the applicability of the modeling strategies and the usefulness of the design environment.

A design perspective of mechanical function and its object-oriented representation scheme

Engineering with Computers, 1998

The purpose of this paper is to present a functional schema which can be used to develop computer... more The purpose of this paper is to present a functional schema which can be used to develop computer tools to assist designers during the early stages of the mechanical product design process. The schema is based on an analysis of the meaning of function. five main types of mechanical function are described: performance, assembly, manufacturing, marketing and maintenance. The paper

EFDEX: A Knowledge-Based Expert System for Functional Design of Engineering Systems

Engineering with Computers, 2001

This paper presents a knowledge-based system, 'EFDEX', the Engineering Functional Design Expert, ... more This paper presents a knowledge-based system, 'EFDEX', the Engineering Functional Design Expert, which was developed using an expert system shell, CLIPS 6.1, to perform intelligent functional design of engineering systems. On the basis of a flexible, causal and hierarchical functional modeling framework, we propose a knowledge-based functional reasoning methodology. By using this intelligent functional reasoning strategy, physical behavior can be reasoned out from a desired function or desired behavior, and interconnection of these behaviors is possible when there is compatibility between the functional output of one and the corresponding functional requirement (e.g. driving input) of the next one. In addition, a complicated, desired function which cannot be matched with the functional output of any behavior after searching the object-oriented behavior base, will be automatically decomposed into less complex subfunctions by means of relevant function decomposition rules. An intelligent system for the functional design of an automatic assembly system provides an application of this intelligent design environment, and a demonstration of its methodology. In this paper, a knowledge-based functional representation scheme which integrates two popular AI representation techniques (object-oriented representation and rule-based representation) is also proposed as a prelude to a knowledge-based functional design system.

Indexing and Retrieval in Metal Stamping Die Design Using Case-based Reasoning

Journal of Computing and Information Science in Engineering, 2003

This paper presents a case-based reasoning (CBR) methodology for metal stamping die design, that ... more This paper presents a case-based reasoning (CBR) methodology for metal stamping die design, that in particular addresses the indexing and retrieval of die design cases. A feature relation graph representation of stamped metal parts are used to create a high level of geometric abstraction, which is used to index design cases quickly and accurately. Though the potential search space for case retrieval is huge, by employing a novel dual-step similarity analysis between a new stamped part and existing parts in the case library, the proposed retrieval strategy can narrow down the search space efficiently and retrieve the most similar case in a reasonable period of time. An illustrative example is included to demonstrate the operation of the proposed approach and show its effectiveness in speeding up stamping die design.

Abstracting and Exploring Functional Design Information for Conceptual Mechanical Product Design

Engineering with Computers, 2000

... can have a num-ber of attributes, and these attributes can be used to represent the flow of e... more

A CAD-CAE Integrated Injection Molding Design System

Engineering with Computers, 2002

... A CAD-CAE Integrated Injection Molding Design System Y.-M. Deng, YC Lam, SB Tor and GA Britto... more

Object technology development and unigraphics

Standard component library design and implementation for plastic injection mold design with a CAD tool

The Fourth International Conference on Control and Automation, 2003. ICCA. Final Program and Book of Abstracts.

An overview of the Singer/Churchman/Ackoff School Of Thought

Systems Practice, 1994

The purpose of this paper is to explain the philosophical and methodological basis of the Singer/... more The purpose of this paper is to explain the philosophical and methodological basis of the Singer/Churchman/Ackoff School of Thought (experimentalism). The key features of experimentalism relate to its philosophy, methodology, and imagery. The paper traces and explains the development of experimentalist philosophy from a philosophy of science to a philosophy of life. The basis of this philosophy is the pursuit of ideals. Next the experimentalist methodology is discussed. This is teleological, deriving its justification from the pursuit of the scientific ideal of truth. The paper shows how the methodology changed from optimizing, problem solving to interactive planning. Then experimentalist imagery is discussed in depth. This consists of a formal, rigorous, conceptual framework that provides a conceptual link among the mechanical, probabilistic, and functional images of nature. The authors conclude by discussing how experimentalism could be further developed.

A graph theoretic approach for stamping operations sequencing

Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part B: Journal of Engineering Manufacture, 2004

This paper presents initial work to develop a novel, mathematical technique that is capable of ge... more This paper presents initial work to develop a novel, mathematical technique that is capable of generating a stamping sequence automatically in the design of progressive stamping dies. A graph is used to represent a stamping part and define the relationships between its stamping features. These stamping features are then clustered into workstation sets using a graph colouring algorithm. Next, the sets are ordered in order to determine an optimal sequence of workstations. The objective function for optimization is ‘minimization of the torque difference between two sides of the progressive die’.

Alternative design specifications of prismatic parts for manufactur ability

Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part B: Journal of Engineering Manufacture, 2003

It is argued that design dimension specifications contribute to the manufacturability of a part a... more It is argued that design dimension specifications contribute to the manufacturability of a part and should therefore be subjected to optimization, targeting minimal tolerance stacks in a process plan. The optimality of a process plan, and therefore of a design, depends on the manufacuring environment. As this may change or be unknown at the deisgn stage, this paper proposes a mathematical approach to redimension a design without imparing the functionality of the part. The calculation of tolerances for substitute dimensions is emphasized, depending on the role of a dimension in the design.

Automated process planning for plastic injection and blow moulds

Journal of Materials Processing Technology, 1996

ABSTRACT This paper discusses research results relating to automatic process planning for mould p... more ABSTRACT This paper discusses research results relating to automatic process planning for mould parts for plastic products. It is argued that current research is incomplete from an industrial point view. Industrial requirements for automated process planning are proposed. An object-oriented model that will meet these requirements is briefly described.

Development of an object-oriented blackboard model for stamping process planning in progressive die design

Journal of Intelligent Manufacturing, 2005

ABSTRACT This paper reports preliminary work to investigate the suitability of using a blackboard... more ABSTRACT This paper reports preliminary work to investigate the suitability of using a blackboard framework as a problem-solving model for stamping process planning in progressive die design. The model is described at two levels: knowledge level and computational level. The knowledge level describes how the stamping process planning domain is represented in a blackboard architecture. The computational level describes how the blackboard architecture is modeled and implemented using object technology. A software prototype has been developed using CLIPS and C++ interfaced with Solid Edge CAD system. An example is presented to illustrate the feasibility and practicality of the proposed approach.

A dual-stage functional modelling framework with multi-level design knowledge for conceptual mechanical design

Journal of Engineering Design, 2000

ABSTRACT Supporting the conceptual stage of mechanical product design has been recognized as a ch... more ABSTRACT Supporting the conceptual stage of mechanical product design has been recognized as a challenging research work. This is an area that is not addressed by current computer-aided design systems. In this paper, we present our work on the identification of functional design knowledge and the strategies for its organization. The functional design knowledge is aimed at assisting the conceptual stage of mechanical product design using a dual-stage functional modelling framework proposed by us. Several aspects of functional design knowledge are identified and represented, including function decomposition and functional mapping knowledge, physical structure and physical phenomena knowledge, as well as schematic geometry knowledge. These different aspects of knowledge are organized into three levels: meta level, physical level, and geometric level. A number of libraries are used to implement the design knowledge and its organization. The strength of the approach is that it encompasses very comprehensive aspects of functional design knowledge, and it provides a useful means for compiling past design experience in a formalized and structured form. To demonstrate how the approach can be applied, an example of automatic assembly system design is also studied.

Design Synthesis: integrated product and manufacturing system design

CAD Solid Modelling & Interactive NC Programming

Design synthesis – integrated product and manufacturing system design

Production Planning & Control, 2015

Adopting scientific molding methodology in a simulation-based approach to optimize injection fill time

The Journal of injection molding technology, 2002

This paper explains how current best practice for qualifying and setting up plastic injection mol... more This paper explains how current best practice for qualifying and setting up plastic injection molds, scientific molding, can be incorporated into a simulation environment to improve part and mold designs. The study is limited to analysis of injection fill time. The paper describes scientific molding and the procedure to determine the optimal fill time. This is followed by a discussion on how scientific molding practices can be adapted to a simulation environment. A worked example is presented to clarify the concepts and illustrate the approach. A software implementation of the approach has been developed using Solid Edge and Moldflow simulation software.

Techniques in Knowledge-Based Expert Systems for the Design of Engineering Systems

Intelligent Knowledge-Based Systems, 2005

... The major challenge is to develop a 'design-centric' expert system that incorporate... more

A Graph Theoretic Operations Sequencing Approach for Progressive Die Design

Proceedings of the 34th International MATADOR Conference, 2004

Traditionally strip layout is a manual, experience-based activity. Automation of strip layout is ... more Traditionally strip layout is a manual, experience-based activity. Automation of strip layout is desirable to improve productivity and the quality of design, and to provide computer-aided tools for design. One important, but very difficult, task in automated strip layout design is the determination of a good sequence of stamping operations so that the part can be stamped correctly and efficiently. This paper presents our work to develop a novel, graph-theoretic, operations sequencing method that is capable of generating a stamping sequence automatically, taking into account practical stamping constraints. A graph is used to represent a stamping part and define the relationships between its stamping features. These stamping features are then clustered into workstation sets using a graph colouring algorithm. Next, the sets are ordered to determine an optimal sequence of workstations. The objective function for the optimisation is ‘minimisation of the torque difference between two sides of the progressive die’. The proposed approach can speed up the progressive die design process by automating the strip layout design.

A computerized design environment for functional modeling of mechanical products

Proceedings of the fifth ACM symposium on Solid modeling and applications, 1999

This paper presents the strategies and the methods for the development of a computerized function... more This paper presents the strategies and the methods for the development of a computerized functional modeling design environment to support the conceptual phase of mechanical product design. A new design concept called behavioral scenario is introduced. The modeling process begins with an initial function decomposition and a conversion of the required function into immediate function. This information is then used to develop a causal behavioral process that consists of a network of sub-behaviors. Each sub-behavior is identified by matching its function (intended output action) and the required driving input (intended input action) with the behavioral scenario of a relevant physical phenomenon. The corresponding physical components for each sub-behavior can then be constructed, with respect to the derived behavioral process, to form a preliminary functional design model. Based on the above strategies, a functional modeling design environment has been developed. It consists of an initial function decomposition and conversion module, a causal behavioral process generation module, and a library of domainrelevant physical phenomena. The modules and associated functional modeling tools are described. A design case study is presented to illustrate the applicability of the modeling strategies and the usefulness of the design environment.

A design perspective of mechanical function and its object-oriented representation scheme

Engineering with Computers, 1998

The purpose of this paper is to present a functional schema which can be used to develop computer... more The purpose of this paper is to present a functional schema which can be used to develop computer tools to assist designers during the early stages of the mechanical product design process. The schema is based on an analysis of the meaning of function. five main types of mechanical function are described: performance, assembly, manufacturing, marketing and maintenance. The paper

EFDEX: A Knowledge-Based Expert System for Functional Design of Engineering Systems

Engineering with Computers, 2001

This paper presents a knowledge-based system, 'EFDEX', the Engineering Functional Design Expert, ... more This paper presents a knowledge-based system, 'EFDEX', the Engineering Functional Design Expert, which was developed using an expert system shell, CLIPS 6.1, to perform intelligent functional design of engineering systems. On the basis of a flexible, causal and hierarchical functional modeling framework, we propose a knowledge-based functional reasoning methodology. By using this intelligent functional reasoning strategy, physical behavior can be reasoned out from a desired function or desired behavior, and interconnection of these behaviors is possible when there is compatibility between the functional output of one and the corresponding functional requirement (e.g. driving input) of the next one. In addition, a complicated, desired function which cannot be matched with the functional output of any behavior after searching the object-oriented behavior base, will be automatically decomposed into less complex subfunctions by means of relevant function decomposition rules. An intelligent system for the functional design of an automatic assembly system provides an application of this intelligent design environment, and a demonstration of its methodology. In this paper, a knowledge-based functional representation scheme which integrates two popular AI representation techniques (object-oriented representation and rule-based representation) is also proposed as a prelude to a knowledge-based functional design system.

Indexing and Retrieval in Metal Stamping Die Design Using Case-based Reasoning

Journal of Computing and Information Science in Engineering, 2003

This paper presents a case-based reasoning (CBR) methodology for metal stamping die design, that ... more This paper presents a case-based reasoning (CBR) methodology for metal stamping die design, that in particular addresses the indexing and retrieval of die design cases. A feature relation graph representation of stamped metal parts are used to create a high level of geometric abstraction, which is used to index design cases quickly and accurately. Though the potential search space for case retrieval is huge, by employing a novel dual-step similarity analysis between a new stamped part and existing parts in the case library, the proposed retrieval strategy can narrow down the search space efficiently and retrieve the most similar case in a reasonable period of time. An illustrative example is included to demonstrate the operation of the proposed approach and show its effectiveness in speeding up stamping die design.

Abstracting and Exploring Functional Design Information for Conceptual Mechanical Product Design

Engineering with Computers, 2000

... can have a num-ber of attributes, and these attributes can be used to represent the flow of e... more

A CAD-CAE Integrated Injection Molding Design System

Engineering with Computers, 2002

... A CAD-CAE Integrated Injection Molding Design System Y.-M. Deng, YC Lam, SB Tor and GA Britto... more

Object technology development and unigraphics

Standard component library design and implementation for plastic injection mold design with a CAD tool

The Fourth International Conference on Control and Automation, 2003. ICCA. Final Program and Book of Abstracts.

An overview of the Singer/Churchman/Ackoff School Of Thought

Systems Practice, 1994

The purpose of this paper is to explain the philosophical and methodological basis of the Singer/... more The purpose of this paper is to explain the philosophical and methodological basis of the Singer/Churchman/Ackoff School of Thought (experimentalism). The key features of experimentalism relate to its philosophy, methodology, and imagery. The paper traces and explains the development of experimentalist philosophy from a philosophy of science to a philosophy of life. The basis of this philosophy is the pursuit of ideals. Next the experimentalist methodology is discussed. This is teleological, deriving its justification from the pursuit of the scientific ideal of truth. The paper shows how the methodology changed from optimizing, problem solving to interactive planning. Then experimentalist imagery is discussed in depth. This consists of a formal, rigorous, conceptual framework that provides a conceptual link among the mechanical, probabilistic, and functional images of nature. The authors conclude by discussing how experimentalism could be further developed.

A graph theoretic approach for stamping operations sequencing

Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part B: Journal of Engineering Manufacture, 2004

This paper presents initial work to develop a novel, mathematical technique that is capable of ge... more This paper presents initial work to develop a novel, mathematical technique that is capable of generating a stamping sequence automatically in the design of progressive stamping dies. A graph is used to represent a stamping part and define the relationships between its stamping features. These stamping features are then clustered into workstation sets using a graph colouring algorithm. Next, the sets are ordered in order to determine an optimal sequence of workstations. The objective function for optimization is ‘minimization of the torque difference between two sides of the progressive die’.

Alternative design specifications of prismatic parts for manufactur ability

Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part B: Journal of Engineering Manufacture, 2003

It is argued that design dimension specifications contribute to the manufacturability of a part a... more It is argued that design dimension specifications contribute to the manufacturability of a part and should therefore be subjected to optimization, targeting minimal tolerance stacks in a process plan. The optimality of a process plan, and therefore of a design, depends on the manufacuring environment. As this may change or be unknown at the deisgn stage, this paper proposes a mathematical approach to redimension a design without imparing the functionality of the part. The calculation of tolerances for substitute dimensions is emphasized, depending on the role of a dimension in the design.

Automated process planning for plastic injection and blow moulds

Journal of Materials Processing Technology, 1996

ABSTRACT This paper discusses research results relating to automatic process planning for mould p... more ABSTRACT This paper discusses research results relating to automatic process planning for mould parts for plastic products. It is argued that current research is incomplete from an industrial point view. Industrial requirements for automated process planning are proposed. An object-oriented model that will meet these requirements is briefly described.

Development of an object-oriented blackboard model for stamping process planning in progressive die design

Journal of Intelligent Manufacturing, 2005

ABSTRACT This paper reports preliminary work to investigate the suitability of using a blackboard... more ABSTRACT This paper reports preliminary work to investigate the suitability of using a blackboard framework as a problem-solving model for stamping process planning in progressive die design. The model is described at two levels: knowledge level and computational level. The knowledge level describes how the stamping process planning domain is represented in a blackboard architecture. The computational level describes how the blackboard architecture is modeled and implemented using object technology. A software prototype has been developed using CLIPS and C++ interfaced with Solid Edge CAD system. An example is presented to illustrate the feasibility and practicality of the proposed approach.

A dual-stage functional modelling framework with multi-level design knowledge for conceptual mechanical design

Journal of Engineering Design, 2000

ABSTRACT Supporting the conceptual stage of mechanical product design has been recognized as a ch... more ABSTRACT Supporting the conceptual stage of mechanical product design has been recognized as a challenging research work. This is an area that is not addressed by current computer-aided design systems. In this paper, we present our work on the identification of functional design knowledge and the strategies for its organization. The functional design knowledge is aimed at assisting the conceptual stage of mechanical product design using a dual-stage functional modelling framework proposed by us. Several aspects of functional design knowledge are identified and represented, including function decomposition and functional mapping knowledge, physical structure and physical phenomena knowledge, as well as schematic geometry knowledge. These different aspects of knowledge are organized into three levels: meta level, physical level, and geometric level. A number of libraries are used to implement the design knowledge and its organization. The strength of the approach is that it encompasses very comprehensive aspects of functional design knowledge, and it provides a useful means for compiling past design experience in a formalized and structured form. To demonstrate how the approach can be applied, an example of automatic assembly system design is also studied.

Modelling functional design information for injection mould design

International Journal of Production Research, 2001

Injection mould design is a complex process incorporating various aspects of design information a... more

Feature-based CAD-CAE integration model for injection-moulded product design

International Journal of Production Research, 2002

G's Guide to Writing High Quality Policies

Workpiece control

Geometric control is control of the stability of the workpiece. The position of the workpiece in ... more

Manufacturing tolerance planning and control

Process capability

Selecting and planning a manufacturing sequence

Tolerances 0,762 0,381 0,254 0,127 0,076 0,025 0,0127 0,0064 mm ins critical tolerance operations... more

Group Technology Design Classification and Coding

Group Technology

Group Creativity Techniques

Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing

In order to properly plan the processes to make a part, you must first understand the part design... more

Factory Layout Planning

Typical designs of engineering companies

Many researchers have realized that the behaviour of organizations is affected by the environment... more Many researchers have realized that the behaviour of organizations is affected by the environments within which they exist. Systems researchers have conducted the most fruitful research on environments. The initial work focused on the environmental factors that directly influence a system's behaviour. Later on they realized that it was necessary to study the environments in their own right, as an ecology.