Feature modeling has the ability to associate functional and engineering information to shape information in a product model. Current feature modeling systems, however, are still rather tied to techniques of conventional geometric modeling systems, offering limited facilities for defining feature semantics, and failing to preserve this semantics as the feature model evolves.

This thesis presents a new feature modeling approach, called semantic feature modeling, which provides a declarative specification scheme for the semantics of feature classes. In addition, this semantics is correctly maintained for all features in the model, throughout the modeling process. The validity maintenance scheme for this monitors each modeling operation, assessing the conformity of all features with their validity criteria. A validity recovery mechanism provides explanations and context-sensitive hints aimed at overcoming each invalid situation detected.
Semantic feature modeling demonstrates that it is possible to assist the user of a modeling system in creating valid models only, containing features with well-defined semantics only.

Well, in The Netherlands, PhD theses are accompanied by a list of propositions. Their purpose, at least in theory, is to give the candidate the opportunity to expose and defend his ideas in various fields, not necessarily technical or scientific.
If you are getting curious, you can take a look at mine, either in English or in Dutch.

An electronic version, in compressed PDF format, is available for downloading (6.3 Mb).
If you prefer to receive a copy of the thesis in the good old book format, just drop me an email sending your post address, and I'll be glad to post it to you (I've still quite a few books left...).