Development of Vapor-Liquid Equilibrium Prediction Expert System by Al Language ART

Abstract

A vapor-liquid equilibrium (VLE) prediction expert system for designing a distillation process has been developed to select the optimum method of prediction and to link with a specialized program, using Al language ART. Al technology is effective for the development of such a complex system as the VLE prediction system, which requires much non-numerical and empirical knowledge that is difficult to process using conventional computer technology.
The following knowledges were implemented in the present system : those
(1) to determine each structural formula from the name of components in a mixture.
(2) to classify the mixture from the formula, and
(3) to select a prediction equation based on the classified mixture.
The present system is especially useful for the engineer who has no special knowledge of VLE prediction. The system can generate VLE by merely inputting both a component's name and the operating pressure.