CADULA — A graph-based model for monitoring CAD-processes

Abstract

CADULA is a graph-based model for describing and monitoring CAD-processes. Today, the design of product consists of several subtasks, which are realized by functions using different and loosely coupled CAD-systems. The functions are not independent, since they commonly design the same product. The dependencies are primarily given by the information flow between the functions, i.e. the data flow between the CAD-systems realizing these functions. In CADULA, a CAD-process is described by a CAD-process scheme and a CAD-process realization. A process scheme describes the functions by specifying their preconditions, actions, and postconditions. Furthermore, the dependencies between the functions are described by a network. A process realization describes the development of a design process for a specific product. Since design processes are evolutionary processes, for each design function several versions and alternatives are developped. A process realization is based on a process scheme, i.e. a process realization must satisfy the structural properties given by the process scheme. Furthermore, CADULA supports hierarchical refinements and decompositions of functions into a number of related smaller functions. The decomposition methodology is widely accepted as the most powerful methodology for breaking down the design complexity. CADULA is currently validated by industrial applications (software engineering and electronic design).