QUESTION:
Can the patched conic method still be used to design an incoming inclination
at a target planet?

ANSWER from Pieter Kallemeyn on December 17, 1997:
Yes, it's used quite frequently to identify opportunities to arrive at a
planet, and is surprisingly accurate.  Later, once a mission has been
selected for further development, the patched conic method is gradually
replaced with a more complete modelling of the gravitation influence of the
Sun, all planets plus effects due to solar radiation pressure and other
non-gravitational forces.

Pieter Kallemeyn