Imbedding rule inferencing in applications

The CAD Inference Engine (CADIE) is discussed. CADIE implements a rule-inferencing capability intended to be embedded in CAD tools. The primary goal is to integrate tightly a rule-based inferencing capability and CAD tools developed in an object-oriented language, specifically C++. CADIE examines tool data directly, thereby avoiding translations and enabling the rule-based problem solver to be integrated into a tool that supports an existing design activity. CADIE accomplishes this access without additional data fields in tool defined data structures. The program achieves integration by making use of features of object-oriented languages that enable the inference engine to remain application independent and that require only minor changes to application code and data structure definitions. The object-oriented design of the inference engine and the interface between the inference engine and tool-defined data structures are described.<>