Hybrid Expert System for Computer-Aided Design of Ship Thruster Subsystems

Abstract

The article presents an expert system supporting the design of ship’s power subsystems, in particular the thruster subsystem. The proposed hybrid expert system uses the results of simulation tests as the additional source of knowledge. The results of system operation are collated in a report which can be used as part of ship design description. The work oriented on developing the expert system is the continuation of the research carried out in cooperation with the shipyard’s design office, the main aim of which was to automate selected stages of the ship’s design process. The hybrid expert system for computer-aided design of ship thruster subsystems can support designers by creating part of the technical description of the thruster subsystem, evaluation of static and dynamic properties, and by checking if design solutions have met the requirements of classification societies. Additionally, the expert system supports collecting and providing information about the elements and structures of the thruster subsystem. Finally, the system provides a document with the description of the thruster structure and elements used in it. The proposed expert system is dedicated to the initial design stages.