A computer system configuration design expert system: IDEA/C

Abstract

An expert system, called IDEA/C (intelligent system design automation/configuration) has been developed to assist system engineers with computer system configuration. The knowledge base of this Prolog-based system contains expert knowledge concerning computer system configuration design, as well as hardware specifications of various pieces of equipment and their interconnectability relationships. Using the knowledge base, the system assists system engineers with design work. The authors focus on the following two points: (1) discussions on the effectiveness of Prolog for representation of interconnectability relationships between various pieces of equipment, for representing system components, and for implementation of knowledge base retrieval function; and (2) system structure which reflects emphasis on improved maintenance of expert systems.<>