Model-based software prototyping enables effective construction of design tools for new system design approaches effectively in a very short time. In this paper, we show that explicit interface modeling is well suited to integrate such prototyped tools into design environments. In addition, we point out how our model-based generative approach supports evolution of prototypes very well. We prese...

The integration of software tools used in an engineering process is a problem that arises frequently in large-scale engineering projects. Traditional approaches are insufficient for complex engineering tools and processes. The solution must also account for the evolution of the system, as tools and processes change over time. This paper shows a new approach to the problem, describes the support...

The architect Antonio Gaudi designed complex structures based on catenary systems. His beautiful forms were created by suspending pieces of string from hooks, deforming them with weights and other strings, then inverting the form to create the structural elements. Today’s architects are at a loss to reproduce these types of catenary forms when using even the most advanced design tools on the ma...

A methodology will be presented to design at Electronic System Level (ESL) and map the design into an implementation using a Mission Level Design tool.

A novel methodology for the calculation, visualisation and analysis of the Reconfigurable Machinery Efficient Workspace (RMEW), based on the twist angles, is presented in this paper. The machinery’s kinematic parameters are used for calculating the workspace, while the efficient workspace is associated with the machinery’s path and includes the endeffector position and orientation. To analyse a...

We report on two experiments to study the use of a graphic design tool for generating and selecting image lters, in which the aesthetic preferences that the user expresses whilst browsing ltered images drives the lter generation process. In the rst experiment, we found evidence for the idea that intelligent employment of the user s preferences when generating lters can improve the overall quali...

To improve feedback on how concurrent CSP-based programs run, the graphical CSP design tool (gCSP [3,2]) has been extended with animation facilities. The state of processes, constructs, and channel ends are indicated with colours both in the gCSP diagrams and in the composition tree (hierarchical tree showing the structure of the total program). Furthermore, the contents of the channels are als...

There are two main issues to be resolved in order that design tools can be used in cooperative mode, each communicating with the other. Firstly, there is a need to put in place a consistent product model of a building and its systems from which disparate design tools can obtain their inputs and return their outputs. Secondly, there is the requirement to manage the transactions between users and...

This paper introduces PROSTh1, a knowledge-based simulation design tool that automatically generates simulation models from process models. Domain experts who are familiar with the various aspects of the system may be interviewed and process models can be developed based on the evidence collected using PROSIM. The built-in simulation design support environment of PROSIM enables building simulat...

We describe a design research method to explore visual designs in a game and the effects designs have on player’s performance. We address the merits of this approach through a case study involving the creation of a new design tool, evaluation and verification by expert game designers, and a follow-up user study. The study evaluates the effects of visual designs by analyzing play and eye perform...