The objective of this research is to develop an automated CAD system for the structural design and analysis of aerospace members. The system will allow complex assemblies to be synthesized from standard parts libraries in a tinkertoy assembly fashion. The system will be able to automatically generate the finite element model of major structural assemblies from the design part definition database. It will map the finite element solution results from the idealized stick/panel idealization to the actual members. The system will automatically perform design checks based on the member's form features and on the applicable functional and structural sizing rules. Violations of design rules will be automatically detected and a goal-seeking control strategy will be used to make the necessary changes for compliance.
