Semantic-based design rationale segment extraction method

The existing retrieval results of Design Rationale (DR) model are presented in isolated rational elements node or complete cases, which lead to the structure too simple or too complex to understand and reuse. To solve the above problems a semantic-based DR segment extraction method was proposed. Based on the existing keyword-based DR retrieval method, the Minimum-Length DR Segment (MLS) was obtained by semantic reasoning of retrieved DR elements. Through the clustering MLS and merging segment repeatedly, the segment was extracted. Based on segment extraction, a new reuse pattern based on DR segment was formed through providing DR segment for designers. An application example was demonstrated to verify the feasible of extraction method and the effectiveness of extracted segment.