Integration of product life cycle knowledge in CAD

In computer aided design intelligent tools which, first of all, facilitate the process of product design are used more and more often. Due to that fact CAD tools are becoming more specialized and the knowledge concerning the domain of a designed product is of an essential importance. The record of that knowledge in databases as well as application of these bases together with CAD systems enable intelligent aid in product design. A correlation seems to be easily noticeable i.e. the earlier phase of product life the more frequent application of the knowledge concerning the phase at designing stage. The longer time from product design the smaller feedback to designing process although it is only then when the full verification of product construction and concept takes place. The paper presents a proposal of a record of auxiliary knowledge in designing process in XML format. It refers to both knowledge “returning“from the whole product life cycle and also knowledge obtained in the process of designing and referring to the very process of designing, the product itself and its utilization. Together with CAD tools it becomes a form of application –designer’s assistant. Module construction of an assistant enables easy development and adaptation to specific needs.