Data configuration in an object oriented persistent programming environment for CAD

Evaluates a methodology based on the object-oriented and persistent paradigms for the interfacing of CAD tools with a framework with emphasis on rapid prototyping. This combination ensures that all objects (design data) may be manipulated in a uniform manner, are virtual and possess object-oriented characteristics, be they of a volatile or persistent nature. In such a methodology, configuration is necessary to regulate the persistent aspects of the data. The authors discuss the configuration requirements, the problems and the solutions as realized in a software system named OPI. In OPI, a recursive clustering strategy enables maximum flexibility of persistent data configuration. The user (tool programmer) may select the data that is to persist and control where and how it should be stored. Unique in this approach is that the system employs partitioning algorithms that enable it to work with a minimal set of configuration data. Additional data may be entered piece-meal, resulting in better run-time performance, or more accurate partitioning