Author(s)

A. Beltrame & E. Toppano

Abstract

The paper investigates the problem of design synthesis with prototypes i.e., exemplary solutions in a given field which are obtained by generalization from a set of specific design cases. A framework for organizing prototypical knowledge using multiple models at different abstraction and generalization levels is described. Design synthesis with prototypes is modelled as a recoursive cycle consisting of recalling relevant prototypes, selecting most promising ones and adapting them to current situation. The approach is experimented using SECS a prototype-based system developed for supporting electronic engineers in the high level task of conceptual design of electronic circuits. 1 Introduction Current CAD systems do not address many of the problems an engineer must face

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