Aircraft VSCF generator expert system

VSCF (variable-speed constant-frequency) electrical systems are designed using standard modules to reduce the manufacturing cost and improve the product quality and services. An expert system that automatically configures the modules required for a particular application is described. It is a rule-based synthesis system with a domain that encompasses the matrix of standard modules. The module functions include electrical generation, conversion, the control. All the modules must be placed in a proper package to fit the space available inside the particular airplane. The configuration system is built by using a rule-based expert system development tool, OPS5, in a VAX 11/750 computer. It has the domain-specific knowledge necessary to configure the generators embedded in its rulebased and exhibits expertise to place the modules in the proper arrangement based on customer specifications and design criteria. The system can also help the engineers and salespersons to determine the configuration at quotation time and to point out any new design which is required