Expert System Design Aid for Applications of Human Factors in Robotics

摘要

Research was performed to provide the groundwork for an Expert System that will function as a design aid for robotics applications. The Expert System is entitled Human Factors-Robotics Expert System (HF-ROBOTEX). This effort involved a number of interrelated steps including an examination of state-of-the-art technology in the fields of Expert Systems, Human Factors, and Robotics by reviewing current literature and talking to pertinent experts. In addition, a design specification was written that incorporates the knowledge gained to guide the development of the Expert System. HF-ROBOTEX specification employs a modular design using a microcomputer-based system technology. It consists of three elements: a user interface, a knowledge base, and an interference driver. The knowledge base is designed to incorporate the knowledge of experts and selected sections of current Human Factors Guidebooks/Handbooks. The selection of data sources was guided by a literature review, by inputs from Human Factors Engineers, as well as by professionals involved in the application of robotics and Expert Systems. The inference driver uses rules of reasoning (i.e., heuristics) to access, as well as interpret information in the knowledge base and generate conclusions.