Abstract :
The KADS (knowledge acquisition and design structuring) system, which guides knowledge engineering using organizational models, task models, expertise models, cooperation models, and design models, is reviewed. Model-K, the result of combining high-level languages with KADS to reach a smoother and speeder transition from the conceptual model to a prototype and the running system, is reviewed. Model-K closes the gap between the knowledge level and the symbolic level, letting developers specify KADS conceptual models and refine them to operational systems. The language lets developers arbitrarily interleave both activities, thereby supporting early prototyping at the highest level. Systems written in model-K contain their own conceptual model, making them more transparent and easier for experts and users to understand and for knowledge engineers to maintain.<>
Keywords :
high level languages; knowledge acquisition; knowledge based systems; software prototyping; KADS conceptual models; Model-K; cooperation models; design models; design structuring; early prototyping; expertise models; high-level languages; knowledge acquisition; knowledge engineering; knowledge level; operational systems; organizational models; symbolic level; task models; Computer science; Design engineering; Diagnostic expert systems; Europe; Feedback; Knowledge acquisition; Knowledge engineering; Problem-solving; Prototypes; Testing;