Solving Mechanism for Elementary Problems in Fluid Mechanics : 1st Report, Fluid Property Problem Solver

Abstract

This study investigates an application of the knowledge engineering to problems in fluid mechanics. This study is also expected to reveal information about the structure of the solving process of human beings in this field. As the first step, this paper describes the system written in lisp, which is developed to solve problems of fluid properties. This system simulates the student's way of processing. Data of three kinds are assumed : concept data, equation data and inference data. Concept, equation and inference data cover quantities associated with fluid properties, equations relating quantities, and decision about the use of general knowledge and default values, respectively. These data are written independently of the simulation system. The system uses equations to relate the unknowns with knowns, and tries to solve problems. When this process fails, general knowledge and/or default values are evaluated if necessary.