Abstract
We propose the mechanism representation using the function description and building blocks with qualitative relationship. A function description is defined as the functional feature of a physical object, and the physical object is represented by one abstracted building block. A mechanism, which designers have derived from a function, is represented as changing the size of these blocks and/or arranging them. The relationship between blocks, which represent the mechanism including a designers' intention, is described with spatial and temporal relationships. We also develop the pilot system for supporting the conceptual design process with proposed representation method, and show feasibility of the system.
