Towards an Intelligent Workflow Designer based on the Reuse of Workflow Patterns

In order to perform process-aware information systems we need sophisticated methods and concepts for designing and modeling processes. Recently, research on workflow patterns has emerged in order to increase the reuse of recurring workflow structures. However, current workflow modeling tools do not provide functionalities that enable users to define, query, and reuse workflow patterns properly. In this paper we gather a suite for both process modeling and normalization based on workflow patterns reuse. This suite must be used in the extension of some workflow design tool. The suite comprises components for the design of processes from both legacy systems and process modeling

Computational design process modeling

In the conceptual design phase, relatively simple equations and functions (or compiled code) are used to describe the aircraft and to perform trade-off studies. The latter require an optimal execution sequence in order to reduce computational cost and design time, respectively. The focus of this paper is the dynamic derivation of the optimal computational plan for each study so that the designer could focus on designing the aircraft rather than managing the process flow. Two methodologies, the Design Structure Matrix (DSM) and the Incidence Matrix are used for the computational process modeling. The incidence matrix describes the relationship between variables and equations/models. The DSM has been used to express the dependency relationships between the models and also, after manipulation, to produce the solution process. The designer specifies the independent (known) variables first. Then the variable flow is modeled using the Incidence Matrix Method (IMM). It determines how data flows through the models, and also identifies any strongly connected components (SCCs). The second step is to rearrange all equations/models hierarchically in order to reduce the feedback loops in each of the identified SCCs. This is achieved by the application of a genetic-based algorithm. Subsequently all SCCs and noncoupled models are assembled into a macro model which forms a global DSM. The global DSM is further rearranged to obtain an upper triangular matrix which defines the final model execution sequence. A simple aircraft sizing example is presented to illustrate the proposed method and algorithm. Advantages of the method include improved efficiency and the ability to deal with both algebraic and numerical models as well as with multiple outputs per model

Behavioral synthesis from VHDL using structured modeling

This dissertation describes work in behavioral synthesis involving the development of a VHDL Synthesis System VSS which accepts a VHDL behavioral input specification and performs technology independent synthesis to generate a circuit netlist of generic components. The VHDL language is used for input and output descriptions. An intermediate representation which incorporates signal typing and component attributes simplifies compilation and facilitates design optimization.A Structured Modeling methodology has been developed to suggest standard VHDL modeling practices for synthesis. Structured modeling provides recommendations for the use of available VHDL description styles so that optimal designs will be synthesized.A design composed of generic components is synthesized from the input description through a process of Graph Compilation, Graph Criticism, and Design Compilation. Experiments were performed to demonstrate the effects of different modeling styles on the quality of the design produced by VSS. Several alternative VHDL models were examined for each benchmark, illustrating the improvements in design quality achieved when Structured Modeling guidelines were followed

Molecular modeling for physical property prediction

Multiscale modeling is becoming the standard approach for process study in a broader framework that promotes computer aided integrated product and process design. In addition to usual purity requirements, end products must meet new constraints in terms of environmental impact, safety of goods and people, specific properties. This chapter adresses the use of molecular modeling tools for the prediction of physical property usefull for chemical engineering practice

Value-oriented process modeling - towards a financial perspective on business process redesign

To date, typical process modeling approaches put a strong emphasis on describing behavioral aspects of business operations. However, they often neglect value-related information. Yet, such information is of key importance to strategic decisionmaking, for instance in the context of process improvement or business engineering. In this paper we propose a valueoriented approach to business process modeling based on key concepts and metrics from operations and financial management. A simple case study suggests that our approach facilitates managerial decision-making in the context of process re-design