Dimensional analysis and constraint propagation systems applied to the design of electromagnetic devices

The paper addresses the two issues of whether the specification of a partic ular device is complete (i.e. a numerical model could be constructed from t hem) and whether ranges set on particular parameters lead to a physically v alid search space. The methods used involve structuring a mathematical mode l as an equation network providing relationships between parameters. The di mensions of the specifications are checked against the model using dimensio nal analysis and the effects of ranges are determined by using interval mat hematics coupled,vith constraint propagation.