Constraint management for collaborative electronic design

Today's complex design processes feature large numbers of varied, interdependent constraints, which often cross interdisciplinary boundaries. Therefore, a computer-supported constraint management methodology that automatically detects violations early in the design process, provides useful violation notification to guide redesign efforts, and can be integrated with conventional CAD software can be a great aid to the designer. We present such a methodology and describe its implementation in the Minerva II design process manager, along with an example design session.