Research Review: Application of Expert Systems in the Sciences

Abstract

Studies from the field of artificial intelligence have given birth to a relatively new but rapidly growing technology known as expert systems. An expert system is a computer program which captures the knowledge of a human expert on a given problem, and uses this knowledge to solve problems in a fashion similar to the expert. The system can assist the expert during problem-solving, or act in the place of the expert in those situations where the expertise is lacking. Expert systems have been developed in such diverse areas as science, engineering, business, and medicine. In these areas, they have increased the quality, efficiency, and competitive leverage of the organizations employing the technology. During the 1980s, scientists and engineers have used this technology to search for oil, diagnose medical problems, and explore space. This paper provides an overview of this technology, highlights the major characteristics of expert systems, and reviews several systems developed for application in the area of science.