A prototype expert system for hazard and operability studies

Abstract

This paper describes the development of a prototype expert system for use in HAZard and OPerability (HAZOP) studies. The work is motivated by the fact that HAZOP studies are inherently logical exercises utilizing a process engineering knowledge base. The availability of an effective tool to aid engineers in design and operation would be of significant value. The knowledge domain required for HAZOP studies is wide. Hence the system must be built in modular form in order to be efficient. It must also be built in such a way that it is easy to incorporate additional knowledge into the system. The prototype developed in this work has been based on a PC version of Prolog. A basic inference engine, available in Prolog, has been enhanced and tailored into a user-friendly, interactive environment. Details of the knowledge organization and representation are discussed and an example session given. Further work is required to improve the system for serious industrial use through the addition of further knowledge modules, improved input—output facilities and optimization of the program.