ABSTRACT
Problem 3: Reusing previous solutions - case-based design Designers often solve a problem by adapting previous solutions to similar problems. Reusing old solutions is a common design practice - this technique is called case-based design. A detailed treatment of this subject can be found in (Maher et al., 1995). The best known example from the motor vehicle industry is the Ford Cosworth eight cylinder engine. This engine, which was used in Formula 1 winning racing cars, was designed by reusing and adapting the successful four cylinder Ford Cosworth engine. In the truck domain designers commonly adapt and reuse successful truck axle geometry design solutions. In our experience design institutions commonly maintain case libraries - archives of previous designs.
