Challenges in Today's Computing Environments

• Highly dynamic (e.g., frequent changes in users and tools)

• Not well-defined (e.g., little central knowledge or control).

• Not framework-oriented (wrapping tools typically possible, but an art).

• Inherent limits? "Tower of Babel"

Potential Framework Applications in CAE

• Development of CAE tools:
  • Build from existing functional components (e.g., geometric modeling tools).
  • Create tools that are framework-compatible (usable by other tools).

• Creation of specialized tools by wrapping general purpose CAE tools (e.g., electronic packaging toolset)

• Design-analysis integration , including wrapping existing FEA tools for highly automated use [Peak, et al., 1995] .

• Interaction of global/local or micro/macro models [Shepherd, et al., 1994 at SCOREC]).