Development of a knowledge base for use in an Expert System Advisor for Aircraft Maintenance Scheduling (ESAAMS)

Abstract

The Expert System Advisor for Aircraft Maintenance Scheduling (ESAAMS) was originally proposed to assist tin the scheduling of discrepancies in a naval aviation squadron maintenance department. This thesis addresses the development of a knowledge base for ESAAMS which will support the stated goals of the system. An overview of expert systems in general and specifically the ESAAMS system is presented as background information to the reader. A specific approach to acquiring, documenting and storing the knowledge is suggested which will facilitate further development of the system prototype. based on interviews with experienced maintenance controllers, an initial knowledge base is provided for use in the prototype system. Concluding the thesis are recommendations for further study based upon the findings discovered during this research.