In order to properly define expecta

In order to properly define expectations and characteristics of the next generation of CAD systems, i.e. means capable to aid any kind of design activity, it is necessary to share a common perspective about what inventions and problems are and the role computers can play. Indeed, problem solving is an essential part of any design activity, traditionally characterized by a co-occurrence of tasks and problems to be addressed [5]: in fact, a design task can be divided into subtasks, some of which can reveal ‘‘difficult’’ problems to solve. The authors share Simon’s vision [6] about the importance to transform an ‘‘ill structured’’ problem into a ‘‘well structured problem’’ as an essential part of design. According to this perspective, modeling the ‘‘structure of a problem’’ is a key characteristic that the next generation of CAD systems should have; in other terms, computer-aided design should include computer-aided problem setting and problem solving.