The application of qualitative modelling and rule induction techniques to the design, monitoring and maintenance of distribution systems

The work carried out so far at British Aerospace has been aimed at distribution systems such as electrical switching circuits, hydraulic and pneumatic systems rather than signal processing or other more complex systems. Limiting the system complexity in this way makes the modelling easier while allowing the uses of the method to be assessed. It is felt that the methods being developed would have a wider application. Three aspects of the life cycle of a system are being considered as suitable application areas for qualitative modelling: system design, instrumentation monitoring and fault diagnosis. The author discusses the qualitative modelling of distribution systems. Finally, the process of rule induction is explained