Development of a shell for constructing a diagnostic expert system based on designer’s knowledge

Conventionally, diagnostic expert systems have been developed using maintenance engineer’s knowledge. However, these systems have many problems, such as the requirement for failure data and experience of maintenance for objective equipment, etc. This paper presents a method of knowledge representation and systematization of knowledge for diagnostic expert systems which can be applied to new equipment having no historical data. The use of design knowledge and the relations between components are considered in terms of necessary and possible relation. A method of knowledge representation, termed a dual direction diagnostic matrix, is introduced. As a result, it is confirmed that speedy and concise diagnosis can be implemented.