An artifact modeling approach for developing integrated engineering systems

Engineering problem solving can be viewed as a transformation process in which the initial description of an engineering system (artifact) transforms to its final description. This paper presents a single yet powerful approach for modeling engineering artifacts. The approach involves using (1) a symbolic language for representing engineering artifacts in terms of objects and relations and (2) a mechanical strategy for manipulating engineering artifacts. The approach provides a common platform for modeling different phases of the engineering problem solving process, thus facilitating system integration.