Structuring Knowledge and Data Bases in Expert Systems for Integrated Structural Design

Abstract

The integrated structural design includes preliminary design, structural analysis, and the final detailed design. A knowledge‐based expert system for integrated structural design requires both symbolic processing of heuristics and experiential knowledge and numerical processing of algorithmic computations. In addition, such a coupled expert system must use existing data bases as well as a large variety of data created during a consultation with the system. Thus, considering their complex interaction, effective integration of symbolic processing, numerical processing, and data base management becomes a major concern in the development of expert systems for integrated structural design. This paper addresses this integration problem by presenting a prototype system, called FRAMEX, for design of a class of steel structures—regular multistory steel buildings. The basis of steel design is the recently developed Load and Resistance Factor Design Specification.