Onboard reasoning and other applications of the logic-based approach to the moving objects intelligent control

Abstract

This article provides the theoretical background and practical case studies of the application of reasoning and other logic-based approaches to the moving objects control. Modern moving objects, both manned and unmanned, utilise computers as their 'onboard brain'. Since planes, spacecraft, cars, trucks and trains must demonstrate flexible and safe behaviour in various situations, it seems prospective to use intelligent control means instead of rigid control logic dispersed in a program source code. This article is concerned with the possible implementation of onboard intelligence. In contrast to the popular use of neural networks, the logic-based approach is based on clear and exact control rules with strict responsibility. Thus, formal specification and verification methods can be utilised. The article describes the real-time control algorithm logic (RTCAL) for the above-mentioned purposes. We also present case studies of reasoning at the design and operation stages for providing the fault tolerant control of a spacecraft.