Abstract: With the rapid development of generative artificial intelligence, the field of mechanical design has ushered in new changes. The design concept is gradually developed from the traditional “computer-aided + artificial experience” to “historical design data and knowledge + generative modeling” with advanced intelligence, and specific design behavior is developed from “manual modeling” to “generative modeling”, and the mechanical product design driver is developed from manual experience to data knowledge. In response to this development trend, a new mechanical design concept is proposed: Intelligent generative design (IGD). The content composition, core operation mechanism, design features, and key technologies of IGD are described in this article. On this basis, this study explores the application value of IGD in mechanical product design, and points out the new trend and development direction for the design of mechanical products.

Key words: mechanical design, artificial intelligence, independent learning, knowledge reasoning, computer-aided design