Uncertainty reasoning applied to the assessment of composite materials for structural design

The problem of selecting the most suitable fibre-reinforced composite materials for a given design is discussed. In particular the inherent indeterminacy of the mechanical properties of such materials, and how this affects a reasoned judgement, is focused upon. The computer language FRIL is then described: this allows the modelling of uncertain information, and supports inference using uncertain rules. The application of FRIL’s methodology to the assessment of design materials is illustrated, and the merits of different representations examined.