A computer-aided function logic sketchpad

Abstract: "Function logic has been an effective approach to improved preliminary and conceptual design for several decades. This paper describes a computer-based function block diagram development tool to aid a designer in the practice of preliminary design and analysis. Its functions include assistance in the identification and the definition of main and secondary functions, identifying links between interrelated functions, and automatic generation of functional block diagrams for the developing system. Limitations of the function logic method and the tool are discussed."