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Microtechnologies and their corresponding CAD tools have
meanwhile reached alevel of sophistication that requires
the application of theoretical means on all modelling levels
of design and analysis. Also, there is a growing need for a
scientific approach in modelling again. Many concepts
provided by Systems Theory again turn out to be of major
importance. This is especially valid for the design of"machines with intelligent behaviour".
When dealing with complex systems, the engineering design
has to be supported by CAD tools. Consequently, the methods
of Systems Theory must also get computerized. The newly
established field of "Computer Aided Systems Theory" (CAST)
is a first effort in this direction. The goal of CAST
research and development isto provide "Systems Theory
Method Banks" which can be used in education and to provide
a platform for the migration of CAST methods into existing
CAD tools.
This book, basing on different research and development
projects in CAST, is written for engineers who are
interested in using and developing CAST systems,
particularly in thefield of Information and Systems
Engineering.

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