Computer-Aided Design Tools and Systems

Abstract

Creating large, complex systems is one of the most demanding tasks undertaken by humankind. To design a state-of-the-art microcomputer, a high performance computer system, a modern petroleum refinery, or a supersonic jetliner requires the talents of a large number of individuals (e.g., engineers, managers, technicians), coordinated into a team, making extensive use of sophisticated tools to complete the job. Much of what is designed today could not even be attempted without the pervasive use of computers. Computers automatically generate portions of the design, check the correctness of hand generated portions, and keep track of the data describing the design, especially as it evolves over time.