On-line expert systems and their role in the control systems of the future

Abstract Expert systems, an outgrowth of artificial intelligence research, are being used in many industrial applications areas. This paper discusses the impact of this new technology on control systems of the future. In particular, on-line expert systems allow knowledge about the process under control to be embedded in conventional control systems. On-line expert systems can be continuously available to monitor a process and provide recommendations to operators on required adjustments. Under certain conditions, the expert system can provide closed-loop control where such control would not otherwise be possible. An expert system developed for the treatment of industrial cooling water is used as an example of how on-line expert systems can be used. The expert systems, containing the knowledge of foremost cooling water experts, continuously monitors the cooling water system for problems, ensuring corrective action can be taken before a significant performance failure jeopardizes the cooling unit's reliability. The expert system in an integrated component of a cooling water automation and control system.