Abstract. Case-Based Design CBD applies a knowledge-based process to the knowledge commonly associated with Case-Based Reasoning CBR systems the library of exemplars. This paper investigates the problems in using commercial CBR tools, primarily aimed at classi cation applications, for a more knowledge intensive CBD task, and proposes techniques that overcome some of these di culties. This work results from the development of a pharmaceutical CBD system Cbr-Tfs that proposes tablet formulations in order to manufacture viable tablets. Results show that Cbr-Tfs proposes useful ingredients for the tablet, and that the quantities it suggests are well within the limits of the tablet manufacturing process. CBD's increased need for specialised adaptation knowledge is also highlighted and this raises the issue of its acquisition.