Fuzzy logic for bridge rating using an eigenvector of priority settings

To avoid possible inconsistencies in the inspection and rating of highway bridges, a fuzzy inference model based on a priority setting obtained through the solution of an eigenvector problem invoking a pairwise comparison matrix of importance is presented. This method and the associated solution technique, originally developed for general use in multi-attribute decision making, are used to implement a computer program written in CLIPS and C language in a knowledge-based expert system environment. The computer program was verified using actual bridge inspection data. The advantage of the proposed model is that, when applied to bridge rating, it provides priority settings of the individual elements of a bridge component in addition to the final rating of that component