Modular expert systems

The Modular Expert System (MES) is an integral part of multi-domain expert systems. In multi-characteristic projects such as hazardous waste site investigations, requiring interdisciplinary knowledge, it is difficult to put all the necessary knowledge-based data into one system when using a personal computer. Therefore, a Modular Expert System (MES) is needed to integrate the separate systems (10). 

PC) therefore, it is necessary to have Modular Expert Systems (MES) to integrate these into the main system. The structure of the MES is similar to the GEOTOX model but with different knowledge-based databases. 

Fang, H. Y. and Mikroudis, G. K. (1989), Modular Expert System An Expert System Between Expert Systems. Report prepared for Envirotronics Corporation, International. 

Many expert systems which have been developed are very large software systems. A large system does not lend itself to maintenance or modifications. With the recent improvement of expert system shells, the opportunity to develop smaller, modular expert system, with highly specific knowledge bases has become possible. A small system could be treated as a black box program. Expert systems could be developed and used in the same way as mathematical libraries on computers are today. These small modular expert systems would be easily shareable. Modular expert systems libraries could the be used as building blocks to develop problem-specific expert systems. 

Each of the modular expert systems will be limited to a relatively narrow domain of expertise. However, together, these modules will encompass the many varied aspects of decision-making that would be normally carried out by the human expert from method selection, to real-time process control and then to reporting and documentation. 

This paper is a progress report of the initial phase of an effort which is expected to take several years for completion. Given the present rapid rate of evolution of new concepts in the field of expert systems and artificial intelligence, the development of distributed systems and networks, and continued introduction of new machine features, the design outlined in this paper could be modified during the course of development. Nevertheless, we feel that the basic modular concept will be adhered to, and that modifications will be in the nature of implementation details. 

The iterative schedules given before can be easily computerized. The modular scheduling is much more complicated and involves using a rule-based expert system in the computer program, but the modular system is easy to do manually. 

Figure 1 The modular structure of an expert system separates the reasoning process (the inference engine) from the specific domain information (the knowledge base) comprising both rules and data. The explanation facility provides a means of tracing the reasoning scheme during or after an analysis.

Die Fabrik auf dem Chip, Spektrum der Wissenschafi, October 2002 Miniaturization and modularization of parts of future chemical apparatus general advantages of micro flow expert opinions specialty and fine chemical applications leading position of German technology flexible manufacture large-capacity micro reactors reformers for small-capacity applications compatible and automated micro-reaction systems process-control systems temperature and pressure sensors [209]. 

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