Abstract:
The availability of comprehensive Structural
Optimization Systems in the market is allowing
designers direct access to software tools previously
the domain of the specialist. The use of Structural
Optimization is particularly troublesome requiring
knowledge of finite element analysis, numerical
optimization algorithms, and the overall design
environment.
The subject of the research is the application
of Expert System methodologies to support nonspecialists
when using a Structural Optimization
System. The specific target is to produce an Expert
System as an adviser for a working structural
optimization system. Three types of knowledge are
required to use optimization systems effectively;
that relating to setting up the structural
optimization problem which is based on logical
deduction; past, experience; together with run-time
and results interpretation knowledge. A knowledge
base which is based on the above is set, up and
reasoning mechanisms incorporating case based and
rule based reasoning, theory of certainty, and an
object oriented approach are developed.
The Expert SVstem described here concentrates on
the optimization formulation aspects. It is able to
set up an optimization run for the user and monitor
the run-time performance. In this second mode the
system is able to decide if an optimization run is
likely to converge to a, solution and advice the user
accordingly.
The ideas and Expert System techniques presented
in this thesis have been implemented in the
development; of a prototype system written in C++. The
prototype has been extended through the development
of a user interface which is based on XView.
