Developing building pathology techniques in expert systems

Abstract

The need for expert knowledge to be obtained, accumulated, evaluated and utilised in diagnosing building defects and problems has long been acknowledged in developed countries. Such knowledge however needs to be specific and relevant to local climatic conditions and construction techniques. In this context several research projects are being pursued at the School of Building and Estate Management in the National University of Singapore to develop expert systems using building pathology techniques. This paper describes the practical implications of this work with a particular emphasis in the problems faced in obtaining and utilising expert knowledge and in meeting the needs of the prospective users. A detailed study of techniques employed to make the system user friendly is also described.