A computational model for conceptual design based on function logic

Abstract: "Function logic and function block diagrams have been successfully employed in preliminary and conceptual design processes for several decades. This paper describes a computational model of this process with extensions of the manual approach. It provides for a systematic identification and definition of form and function variables and identifies a three-level function/allocation/component information structure to represent the state of the design. We outline the inputs, outputs and operations on the form and function variables as a key step prior to the synthesis process. We also illustrate by example how to transfer functional designs across specialist domains."