EXPERT SYSTEM FOR TUNNEL CONSTRUCTION

Abstract

The advances in micro-computer technology have lead to the development of expert systems in research, professional work and many fields of technology. In this dissertation, an expert system "TUNCONS" has been developed for the planning of construction of tunnels by conventional methods. A general strategy for development and application of expert systems has been proposed. Since an expert system shell "EXSYS" has been used as a development tool, effort has been concentrated on knowledge engineering which mainly includes• knowledge acquisition system, design implementation and evaluation. The expert system "TUNCONS" has been evaluated using hypothetical but practical data. The output from the expert system appears to be reasonably acceptable. Finally, the limitations have been discussed and potential improvements by way of further research are recommended.