1. Expert Knowledge Based Systems
Software
Expert Knowledge Based Systems

2. Learning Objectives
Explain the function of a expert / knowledge system.
State and explain the four parts of an expert / knowledge system.

3. Expert / Knowledge Systems
Contain as much data as possible about a restricted knowledge area.
The data is collected from as many expert sources as possible and stored in the system, in this way it is hoped that the system contains all the knowledge about that topic that there is.
Rely on the belief that for any given area of knowledge there are logical rules.
Only applies to scientific principles:
E.g. If there is a rule that oil is always found between two particular types of rock strata, then if the system identifies the strata it can determine, according to the rules, where to drill for oil.

4. Expert System Diagram:
Shell

5. Expert System Components:
Human Computer Interface / User Interface:
Allows communication between a user and the expert system so that data and queries can be input and query results to be output, in a way humans can understand.
Knowledge base:
A type of database which contains all the data and information gathered from experts regarding the specific area that the expert system is intended to cover, e.g. different formations and what they mean.
Rule base:
Contains all the inference rules, collected from experts, that must be obeyed and applied to the knowledge base, by the inference engine, to form reasoned conclusions and get answers.
Inference engine:
Software which finds results to queries by searching for the data inputted, in the knowledge base and applying the relevant rules in the rule base, to form reasoned conclusions and get answers.

6. Expert System Components:
Editor:
For creating, changing or updating the knowledge and rule bases.
Explanation system:
Tells the user how system made its decision/s usually at the user's request.

7. Notes:
Expert systems only apply to situations which follow scientific principles and use logical reasoning to make decisions.
The way data is collected varies according to the area.
Geologic Surveys or Oil Exploration:
Data is collected on site by drilling, explosions and observation and remotely by satellite.
Output for geologic surveys :
The geologic structure.
Output for oil explorations:
The different formations and what they mean.
Data can be input automatically through sensors etc… so bypassing the HCI.

8. Plenary Explain the function of a expert / knowledge system.
State and explain the four parts of an expert / knowledge system.