Implementation of conceptual product models into configurators: From months to minutes

For years the use of software-based product configurators has produced a number of benefits for engineering-oriented companies. However, achieving such benefits can be challenging, and often configurator projects do not succeed. A main reason for such failures is that the tasks of developing and maintaining configurators often are very challenging and time-consuming. With a focus on reducing the efforts needed for development and maintenance of product configurators, this paper describes an emerging technology that makes it possible to automate the conversion of conceptual product models made by ordinary product experts into the knowledge base of a configurator, and the other way around. Thus, this new technology enables new ways of carrying out the tasks of configurator development and maintenance. This paper defines the new use patterns that the technology enables and deduces the possible benefits compared to existing approaches. To investigate if the new technology can fulfil its great promises, a case study is presented in which the technology has been applied.