This proposal requests funding for a workshop to identify, record and disseminate promising research directions in geometric modeling as applied in the broad area of computer- aided design (CAD) for the design and manufacture of products. Geometric modeling is central to engineering design and manufacturing. In recent years, geometric modeling needs have changed dramatically. The geometric aspects of CAD systems have evolved from line geometry to solid models which allow automated three dimensional color shaded graphics and automated analysis. This progress has improved the detailed design portion of the design-manufacturing process, but has done little for preliminary and conceptual design process. For example, the present state of solid modeling research has not resolved the question of geometric representations about which the designer can reason. Geometric (form) features and design features in general show promise in making inroads into this "reasoning" question. Much work needs to be done to formulate the issues and focus on the most promising geometric representations for computer representation. Successful resolution of these research questions will contribute to the framework for technological progress in the promising new areas of conceptual design, design for life cycle requirements, and concurrent product and process design. Research progress in this area will contribute to changing the way design will be done in the future. The role of this workshop is to focus attention on the essential research directions in geometric design which will enable the realization of such new design processes.
