Expert system for earthmoving equipment selection in road construction

Alkass, S and Harris, F (1988) Expert system for earthmoving equipment selection in road construction. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 114(3), pp. 426-440. ISSN 0733-9364

Abstract

Knowledge-based systems (expert systems) are generating interest as potential aids to decision making. This paper describes the development of a system for the selection of earthmoving equipment for road construction. Knowledge for this particular domain was acquired from field practitioners such as planning engineers and equipment specialists. The development of the appropriate knowledge acquisition techniques is covered in detail together with guidance provided on suitable methods for interpreting the information gathered into a form capable of being manipulated by computer program. This latter aspect is carefully evaluated with several shells investigated for user-friendliness, availability of hardware, software sophistication and price. The final system is fully tested both with practitioners and novices and the concept of a consultation is validated. Indeed, advice similar to that provided by the experts is achieved.

Item Type: Article
Index terms: road construction, decision-making, equipment selection, knowledge-based system, knowledge acquisition, expert system, hardware, engineer, practitioner, computer program, earthmoving
Subjects: software systems, computer hardware, construction operations, data management, practitioner, decision analysis, profession, artificial intelligence, procurement capability, civil engineering, student development
Topics: Education, Site Management, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management, Engineering Principles, Roles and Professions, Digital Applications
Descriptive scope: 2 PC

N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here