Abstract: The invention includes computer instructions that operate to facilitate a search for computer aided design (CAD) model information, and to determine if one or more features defining the CAD model information are received. Once one or more features are received, the instructions search through a number of files, based at least upon the received one or more features defining the CAD model information. Once the CAD model information searched for is located, the instructions operate to retrieve the CAD model information from one or more of the number of files searched, based at least upon the received one or more inputs for defining one or more features of the CAD model information. In one embodiment, the computer instructions are part of a mechanical design software application. In one embodiment, the mechanical software application including the computer instructions is embodied in a distribution storage medium. As a result, desired CAD model information is efficiently searched for and retrieved.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for maintaining design information corresponding to a design. In one embodiment, an electronic notebook for maintaining design information maintains information corresponding to a design, and follows the steps of receiving a request to add note information corresponding to the design, and automatically copying, in response to the request, at least a portion of the design to a note of the electronic notebook. As a result, detailed design information such as, but not limited to, design intent and design history is maintained throughout the development and manufacturing of the design, as well as other information if desired, for the design.