UNIT IV

EXPERT SYSTEMS
 Expert systems are a crucial subset of artificial intelligence (AI) that simulate the decision-making ability of a

human expert.

 These systems use a knowledge base filled with domain-specific information and rules to interpret and solve

complex problems.

 For example, a medical expert system can analyze a patient’s symptoms and suggest possible diagnoses or

treatments.

 Similarly, a financial expert system can evaluate market trends and recommend investment strategies.

 The key idea behind expert systems is to preserve and replicate human expertise.

 This is especially useful in fields where expert knowledge is scarce or expensive.

 EXPERT SYSTEMS

 Expert systems (ES) are one of the prominent research domains of AI. It is introduced by the researchers at

Stanford University, Computer Science Department.

 An expert system is a computer program that is designed to solve complex problems and to provide decision-

making ability like a human expert.

 It performs this by extracting knowledge from its knowledge base using the reasoning and inference rules

according to the user queries.

 The expert system is a part of AI, and the first ES was developed in the year 1970, which was the first

successful approach of artificial intelligence.

 It solves the most complex issue as an expert by extracting the knowledge stored in its knowledge base.

 The system helps in decision making for complex problems using both facts and heuristics like a human

expert.

 It is called so because it contains the expert knowledge of a specific domain and can solve any complex

problem of that particular domain.

 These systems are designed for a specific domain, such as medicine, science, etc.
Knowledge Base
 It contains domain-specific and high-quality knowledge.

 Knowledge is required to exhibit intelligence.

 The success of any ES majorly depends upon the collection of highly accurate and precise knowledge.
What is Knowledge?
 The data is collection of facts.

 The information is organized as data and facts about the task domain.

 Data, information, and past experience combined together are termed as knowledge.
Components of Knowledge Base

The knowledge base of an ES is a store of both, factual and heuristic knowledge.

 Factual Knowledge − It is the information widely accepted by the Knowledge Engineers and scholars in the task domain.

 Heuristic Knowledge − It is about practice, accurate judgement, one’s ability of evaluation, and guessing.
Knowledge representation

• It is the method used to organize and formalize the knowledge in the knowledge base. It is in the form of IF-
THEN-ELSE rules.
Knowledge Acquisition

• The success of any expert system majorly depends on the quality, completeness, and accuracy of the information
stored in the knowledge base.
• The knowledge base is formed by readings from various experts, scholars, and the Knowledge Engineers.

• The knowledge engineer is a person with the qualities of empathy, quick learning, and case analyzing skills.

• He acquires information from subject expert by recording, interviewing, and observing him at work, etc.

• He then categorizes and organizes the information in a meaningful way, in the form of IF-THEN-ELSE rules, to be
used by interference machine.
• The knowledge engineer also monitors the development of the ES.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN EXPERT SYSTEM AND CONVENTIONAL SYSTEM

 The principle distinction between expert systems and traditional problem solving programs is the way in which the

problem related expertise is coded.

 In conventional applications, problem expertise is encoded in both program and data structures.

 In the expert system approach all of the problem related expertise is encoded in data structures only, none is in

programs.

 Generally in expert systems, the use of knowledge is vital.

 But in conventional system data is used more efficiently than knowledge.

 Conventional systems are not capable of explaining a particular conclusion for a problem. These systems try to

solve in a straight forward manner.

 But expert systems are capable of explaining how a particular conclusion is reached and why requested

information is needed during a process.

 However, the problems are solved more efficiently than a conventional system by an expert system.

Generally in an expert system, it uses the symbolic representations for knowledge i.e. the rules,

different forms of networks, frames, scripts etc. and performs their inference through symbolic

computations.

 But conventional systems are unable to express these terms. They just simplify the problems in a

straight forward manner and are incapable to express the “how, why” questions.

 The various types of problems are always solved by the experts in an expert system. So the solution of

the problem is more accurate than a conventional system.

Characteristics of Expert Systems
 High performance
 Understandable
 Reliable
 Highly responsive

Capabilities of Expert Systems

The expert systems are capable of −

 Advising
 Instructing and assisting human in decision making
 Demonstrating
 Deriving a solution
 Diagnosing
 Explaining
 Interpreting input
 Predicting results
 Justifying the conclusion
 Suggesting alternative options to a problem
Why Are Expert Systems Important?

Expert systems are a game-changer in AI because they:

1. Preserving Expertise: They capture the knowledge of human experts and store it in a digital format. This ensures

that valuable expertise isn’t lost when an expert retires or leaves.

2. Improving Decision-Making: By relying on data and rules, expert systems provide consistent and unbiased

recommendations.

3. Saving Time and Money: They automate tasks that would otherwise require human intervention, reducing costs and

increasing efficiency.

4. Accessibility: Expert systems make expert-level knowledge available to non-experts, democratizing access to

specialized information.
Components of Expert Systems

The components of ES include −

 Knowledge Base
 Inference Engine
 User Interface
Components and Architecture of Expert System
An expert system is made up of several interconnected components, each playing a crucial role in its functionality.

1. Knowledge Base: The Heart of the System

 The knowledge base is the heart of an expert system.

 It contains all the facts, rules, and expert knowledge related to a specific domain.

 Think of it as a library filled with textbooks, research papers, and expert opinions.

 The accuracy and completeness of the knowledge base directly impact the system’s performance.

 If the knowledge is outdated or incomplete, the system’s recommendations may be flawed.

2. Inference Engine: The Brain Behind the Decisions

 The inference engine is the brain of the expert system.

 It processes the information stored in the knowledge base to draw conclusions or

make recommendations.

 The inference engine uses reasoning strategies (like forward chaining or

backward chaining) to analyze data and apply rules.

a. Forward Chaining: Starts with available data and works toward a

conclusion. For example, “If the temperature is high and the patient has a
cough, diagnose a respiratory infection.”

b. Backward Chaining: Starts with a goal and works backward to find

supporting evidence. For example, “If the goal is to diagnose diabetes,
check for symptoms like frequent urination and high blood sugar.”
Inference Engine
 Use of efficient procedures and rules by the Inference Engine is essential in deducting a correct, flawless
solution.
 In case of knowledge-based ES, the Inference Engine acquires and manipulates the knowledge from the
knowledge base to arrive at a particular solution.
 In case of rule based ES, it −
 Applies rules repeatedly to the facts, which are obtained from earlier rule application.
 Adds new knowledge into the knowledge base if required.
 Resolves rules conflict when multiple rules are applicable to a particular case.
To recommend a solution, the Inference Engine uses the following strategies −

 Forward Chaining
 Backward Chaining

Forward Chaining
 It is a strategy of an expert system to answer the question, “What can happen next?”

 Here, the Inference Engine follows the chain of conditions and derivations and finally deduces the outcome. It
considers all the facts and rules, and sorts them before concluding to a solution.
 This strategy is followed for working on conclusion, result, or effect. For example, prediction of share market status as
an effect of changes in interest rates.
Backward Chaining

 With this strategy, an expert system finds out the answer to the question, “Why this happened?”
 On the basis of what has already happened, the Inference Engine tries to find out which conditions could have
happened in the past for this result.
 This strategy is followed for finding out cause or reason. For example, diagnosis of blood cancer in humans.
3. User Interface: Bridging the Gap Between System and User

 The user interface is the bridge that allows users to interact with the expert system.

 It’s designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, ensuring that even non-experts can use the system
effectively.

 Users provide a query (problem or question), and the system processes the request.

 The system then delivers advice or recommendations back to the user.

USER INTERFACE :
 User interface provides interaction between user of the ES and the ES itself.

 It is generally Natural Language Processing so as to be used by the user who is well-versed in the task domain.

 The user of the ES need not be necessarily an expert in Artificial Intelligence.

 It explains how the ES has arrived at a particular recommendation.

 The explanation may appear in the following forms −

• Natural language displayed on screen.

• Verbal narrations in natural language.

• Listing of rule numbers displayed on the screen.

 The user interface makes it easy to trace the credibility of the deductions.
4. Explanation Module: Building Trust Through Transparency

 The explanation module is a critical feature that explains how the system arrived at a particular conclusion.

 It’s like a teacher showing their work when solving a math problem.

 This module provides users with a clear, step-by-step explanation of the system’s reasoning.

 This transparency is especially important in fields like healthcare and finance, where decisions can have
significant consequences.

 Example: A medical expert system might explain, “I diagnosed pneumonia because the patient has a fever,
cough, and abnormal chest X-ray.”
5. Knowledge Acquisition Module: Keeping the System Up-to-Date

 The knowledge acquisition module is responsible for updating and expanding the knowledge base.

 It ensures that the system stays current with the latest information and trends.

 Without regular updates, the system’s knowledge base can become outdated, reducing its effectiveness.

Let’s understand it’s architecture with help of diagram:

 The working mechanism of an expert system begins when a non-expert user submits a query through the user

interface.

 This query is then processed by the inference engine, which applies logical rules and reasoning techniques to analyze

the input.

 The inference engine interacts with the knowledge base, retrieving relevant facts, rules, and heuristics contributed

by expert users.

 Based on this structured knowledge, the system derives conclusions and formulates an appropriate response.

 Finally, the expert system provides advice or recommendations to the user, assisting in decision-making or problem-

solving without requiring direct human expert intervention.

How These Components Work Together?

Imagine a medical expert system designed to diagnose diseases:

1. Input: A patient reports symptoms like fever, cough, and fatigue through the user interface.

2. Processing: The inference engine analyzes the symptoms using rules from the knowledge base.

3. Output: The system suggests a possible diagnosis, such as pneumonia.

4. Explanation: The explanation module provides a detailed explanation, such as “The diagnosis is based on the
presence of fever, cough, and abnormal chest X-ray results.”

5. Update: The knowledge acquisition module adds new data, such as recent research on pneumonia treatments, to
keep the system up-to-date.
Types of Expert Systems in AI

Depending on their structure and application, expert systems can be categorized into different types.

1. Rule-Based Expert Systems

2. Frame-Based Expert Systems

3. Fuzzy Logic Systems

4. Neural Network-Based Expert Systems

5. Neuro-Fuzzy Expert Systems

1. Rule-Based Expert Systems

 One of the most common types is Rule-Based Expert Systems, which rely on if-then rules to process information

and make decisions.

 These rules are typically crafted by domain experts and serve as the system’s reasoning mechanism.

 A well-known example is MYCIN, an early medical diagnosis system that identified bacterial infections.

2. Frame-Based Expert Systems

 Another category is Frame-Based Expert Systems, which organize knowledge using frames, similar to objects in

programming.

 These frames store attributes and values related to specific concepts, making them useful in natural language

processing and other knowledge representation tasks.

3. Fuzzy Logic Systems

 For situations involving uncertainty and imprecision, fuzzy logic Systems come into play.

 These systems don’t operate on strict true/false values but instead allow for degrees of truth.

 Fuzzy control systems, commonly used in household appliances like washing machines and air conditioners,
leverage this approach to optimize performance based on variable input conditions.

4. Neural Network-Based Expert Systems

 Integrate artificial neural networks to learn patterns from data and improve decision-making.

 These systems are widely used in applications like image recognition and speech processing, where traditional
rule-based approaches might struggle.
5. Neuro-Fuzzy Expert Systems

 A more advanced hybrid approach is Neuro-Fuzzy Expert Systems, which merge the learning

capabilities of neural networks with the uncertainty-handling strengths of fuzzy logic.

 These systems are particularly useful in financial forecasting and automated control systems, where

both structured learning and flexible reasoning are necessary.

Examples of Expert Systems in AI

There have been several significant real-world expert systems developed over the years. Some of them are given

below:

1. MYCIN : Revolutionized medical diagnosis by using rule-based logic to detect bacterial infections.

2. PXDES: PXDES is an expert system designed for the medical field, particularly in the diagnosis of lung

cancer.

 PXDES could analyze patient data, including imaging results, to determine both the type and the

stage of lung cancer.

 It helps in deciding the best course of treatment based on the patient’s specific condition.

 Significance: PXDES aids in accurate, timely diagnoses, improving treatment decisions in oncology.
3. CaDet: CaDet is a clinical support system developed to assist in the early detection of cancer.

 CaDet can identify potential signs of cancer in its early stages by analyzing patient data and symptoms.

 It works by comparing patient data with known patterns and indicators of cancer.

 Significance: Early detection by CaDet enhances survival rates by enabling prompt treatment.

4. DXplain: DXplain is a medical expert system developed at Massachusetts General Hospital, used as a clinical decision

support tool.

 DXplain suggests possible diseases based on the symptoms and findings provided by a doctor.

 It acts as a reference tool, offering a differential diagnosis list that doctors can use to check their own

diagnoses.

 Significance: DXplain broadens diagnostic possibilities, helping medical professionals consider rare

conditions.
Applications of Expert Systems :

1. Medical Diagnosis: Expert systems assist doctors by analyzing symptoms and medical history to suggest possible
diagnoses or treatment options. For example, MYCIN, an early expert system, helped identify bacterial infections and
recommend antibiotics.

2. Financial Services: In finance, expert systems are used for credit scoring, fraud detection, and investment advice. They
analyze financial data and patterns to make informed decisions.

3. Technical Support: Expert systems can troubleshoot and provide solutions for technical issues. They guide users
through problem-solving steps based on pre-defined rules and knowledge.

4. Manufacturing: In manufacturing, expert systems help optimize production processes, perform quality control, and
manage inventory by analyzing data and making recommendations.
Benefits of Expert Systems

1. Consistency: Expert systems provide consistent and reliable recommendations, reducing the variability that can

occur with human decision-making.

2. Availability: They are available 24/7 and can handle multiple queries simultaneously, providing timely assistance

and support.

3. Cost-Effectiveness: By automating expert-level decision-making, organizations can save on the costs associated

with hiring and training human experts.

4. Knowledge Preservation: Expert systems preserve valuable knowledge and expertise, making it accessible even

if the original experts are no longer available.

Limitations of Expert Systems

1. Knowledge Limitation: The effectiveness of an expert system depends on the completeness and accuracy

of the knowledge base. If the knowledge is outdated or incomplete, the system’s performance may be

compromised.

2. Lack of Flexibility: Expert systems are limited to the rules and knowledge they are programmed with.

They may struggle with novel or ambiguous situations that fall outside their predefined rules.

3. Maintenance: Regular updates and maintenance are required to keep the knowledge base current and

relevant, which can be resource-intensive.

Requirements of Efficient ES User Interface

 It should help users to accomplish their goals in shortest possible way.

 It should be designed to work for user’s existing or desired work practices.
 Its technology should be adaptable to user’s requirements; not the other way round.
 It should make efficient use of user input.

Expert Systems Limitations

 No technology can offer easy and complete solution.

 Large systems are costly, require significant development time, and computer resources.

 ESs have their limitations which include −

 Limitations of the technology
 Difficult knowledge acquisition
 ES are difficult to maintain
 High development costs
Development of Expert Systems: General Steps

The process of ES development is iterative. Steps in developing the ES include :

Identify Problem Domain

 The problem must be suitable for an expert system to solve it.
 Find the experts in task domain for the ES project.
 Establish cost-effectiveness of the system.
Design the System
 Identify the ES Technology
 Know and establish the degree of integration with the other systems and databases.
 Realize how the concepts can represent the domain knowledge best.
Develop the Prototype

From Knowledge Base: The knowledge engineer works to −

 Acquire domain knowledge from the expert.
 Represent it in the form of If-THEN-ELSE rules.
Test and Refine the Prototype
 The knowledge engineer uses sample cases to test the prototype for any deficiencies in performance.
 End users test the prototypes of the ES.
Develop and Complete the ES
 Test and ensure the interaction of the ES with all elements of its environment, including end users,
databases, and other information systems.
 Document the ES project well.
 Train the user to use ES.
Maintain the System
 Keep the knowledge base up-to-date by regular review and update.
 Cater for new interfaces with other information systems, as those systems evolve.
Architecture of Expert System in AI

 Expert architecture is internally structure that represents to the knowledge base has the certain domain knowledge that is
implemented by an expert to server conclusion from facts.

What is architecture of expert system?

 Expert architecture is a blueprint that represents to the knowledge base has the certain domain knowledge that is
implemented by an expert to server conclusion from facts.

 But, in the rule-based expert system architecture, the domain knowledge is severed into form of a series of rules.
Expert System Architecture Diagram
Explain Structure of Expert System:

 Knowledge Base – It is warehouse of special heuristics or rules, which are used directly by knowledge, facts
(productions). It has knowledge that is needed for understanding, formulating, & problem solving.
 Working Memory – It helps to describe the current running problem and record intermediate output.
Records Intermediate Hypothesis & Decisions: 1. Plan, 2. Agenda, 3. Solution

 Inference Engine – It is heart of expert system as well as helps to manage entire structure of expert system, and it
delivers to different methodology for reasoning.
 Explanation System – It helps to trace responsibility and justify the behavior of expert system by firing questions
and answers, such as Why, How, What, Where, When, Who.
 User Interface – It allows users to insert their queries with using own Natural Language Processing otherwise
menus & graphics.
 Knowledge Engineer – Main objective of this engineer is to design system for specific problem domain with using
of expert system shell.
 System Engineer – To design user interface and declarative format of knowledge base as well as to build inference
engine
 Users – They are non expert person who want to seek direct advice.