FINDS: Farm-Level Intelligent Decision Support System

Abstract

A Farm-level INtelligent Decision Support system, FINDS, for farm machinery selection and management is presented. FINDS combines the analytical strengths of (linear programming) LP and simulation with a knowledge-based expert system. The knowledge domain of FINDS contains facts and rules about LP modeling, simulation modeling, and interpretation of relevant outputs in terms of machinery management. In FINDS, machinery management involves the optimal selection of farm machinery and scheduling of machinery operation activities. The knowledge base of FINDS has full access to a farm-level LP analysis system and a companion farm simulation model. By integrating symbolic knowledge with the quantitative power of LP and simulation, FINDS can automate LP model development, generate simulation code and specify the appropriate input data. FINDS automatically utilizes the coupled LP and simulation models where appropriate and interprets the relevant output to recommend the optimal machinery management practices. Optimal machinery recommendations are based on the farm returns that are obtained and the level of risk that is acceptable to user. FINDS can also provide detailed explanations of the reasoning behind its machinery management recommendations. By automating difficult LP and simulation modeling procedures, FINDS allows more efficient and widespread usage of such complex farm machinery management tools.