The computer can be used to assist in mechanical layout as well as in analysis. An on-line man-machine system for computer-aided design of integrated circuits takes full advantage of human judgement, while relieving the man of most of the detailed work needed to implement his ideas.

Three and a half years ago, we heard about how IBM was using design automation in the design of new computers and started asking the same questions at Norden. One of the early definitions - that design automation was using computers to design computers was quickly rejected. We wanted to use it for designing radars, display systems, and a wide variety of other electronic, mechanical and optical equipment. Any way in which a computer could be used to help design and develop better equipment faster and at lower cost was fair game for investigation.

The Norden Division of United Aircraft Corporation has had an active and extensive design automation program for the past 2 1/2 years. We are trying to apply the same thought and effort to development of man-machine systems for performing our engineering work more efficiently that we normally apply to development of radars, display systems, navigation systems, and other complex electronic equipment. Emphasis throughout our design automation program has been placed on development of user-oriented systems in which computer assistance is made conveniently available to engineers in the context of their own problems. These users do not have to become programmers to learn and use the systems we develop.Since most of our business is in development of electronic equipment, a large part of our design automation effort has been directed toward improved methods for synthesis, analysis, layout, and packaging of electronic circuits. Our early start, rapid progress, and demonstrated capability attracted outside recognition and support in two important areas.