EXPERT SYSTEMS TECHNIQUES IN A COMPUTER-BASED CONTROL SYSTEM ANALYSIS AND DESIGN ENVIRONMENT

We explore the fusion of expert control system analysis and design tools into a prototype computer environment. The use of expert systems technology allows the transfer of recent developments in control system design to users who may not be experts in either theoretical developments or computer technology, in a vehicle which provides considerable design flexibility. The technology does not provide as general a framework as, for example, a command language based environment; however, in specific applications, such as system modeling and linear control systems, it is useful and appropriate. Criteria for such applications is that they have a mature theoretical basis, and that the user interaction influence the sequence of the design process.