Intelligent space laboratory organizational design using system entity structure concepts

Abstract

This thesis is the product of a knowledge acquisition effort, whose objective was to obtain information essential to the modelling and simulation of a robotically operated laboratory on board the forthcoming space station "Freedom." The information is represented using the system entity structure, a knowledge representation scheme that utilizes artificial intelligence concepts. The system entity structure details the design information and associated knowledge required for the intelligent autonomous operation of the space-based laboratory. The approach is proven to be very beneficial for organizing and displaying the vast amounts of information that constitute this intricate system design. Knowledge management, representation, and the nature of a future software implementation are also addressed.