Published online by Cambridge University Press: 11 June 2020
With industries striving towards increased customisation of complex products through engineer-to-order, methods are continuously sought to rationalise the product development process. To this end, a framework is proposed using CAD configurators, utilising design automation and knowledge-based engineering to integrate sales and design processes in product development. The application of this framework to the design of spiral staircases is described and analysed, with results showing decreased lead-times and a decreased risk for design errors.