Expert systems applications in computer-aided design

Abstract Rule-based expert system shells are demonstrated to be useful in elementary design decision making. Two applications are presented which utilise the BUILD shell. The first is concerned with the selection and design of earth-retaining structures and makes use of passive graphics in descriptions. The second is concerned with the analysis and synthesis of kitchens and uses graphics to allow the user to interact with the system. Such systems are useful when the range of options is small.