In this paper, we describe the elements of a methodology for design founded on classical artificial intelligence (AI) planning. Essentially, we view design as composed of twin recursive and mutually constraining subprocesses of formulation and synthesis-analysis-evaluation. Formulation establishes the goals and constraints of a design problem, while synthesis-analysis-evaluation attempts to achieve these goals by utilising available means within the bounds of the imposed constraints. By focusing on this view of the design process that emphasises its goal-, constraint- and means-centred nature, we have developed a methodology for design based on planning. Formulation is performed by plan recognition, and synthesis-analysis-evaluation is performed by plan generation, execution and monitoring, coupled with inference from a causal representation of the application domain. We provide an example of the functioning of our methodology through a prototype system for the design of beams to satisfy lateral torsional buckling requirements.

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