METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INTERPRETING DATA AND ACCESSING ON-LINE DOCUMENTATION IN A COMPUTER SYSTEM

A modular expert system that uses knowledge modules from multiple personal computer applications to solve a problem. The expert system accesses additional knowledge modules from independent computer applications to reach a conclusion regarding a computer system or application problem. A learning module records past problem-solving histories for reference by the expert system in enhancing problem solving capabilities. A knowledge acquisition module allows an application developer to create knowledge modules for new applications to be used with the modular expert system. A method for solving problems using modular knowledge modules from multiple applications is also described. The method compares a list of facts to rules in its current knowledge base. If a valid conclusion can not be reached then another knowledge module is selected by an inference engine to replace the existing knowledge module to provide further knowledge in solving the problem.