PhD ThesisInformation Technology (IT) can exploit strategic opportunities for new ways of
facilitating information and data exchange and the exchange of expert and specialist
opinions in any field of engineering. Knowledge-Based Systems are sophisticated
computer programs which store expert knowledge on specific subject and are applied to a
broad range of engineering problems. Integrated Database applications have facilitated
the essential capability of storing data to overcome an increasing information malaise.
Integrating these areas of Information Technology (IT) can be used to bring a group of
experts in any field of engineering closer together by allowing them to communicate and
exchange information and opinions.
The central feature of this research study is the integration of these hitherto separate areas
of Information Technology (IT). In this thesis an adaptable Graphic User Interface
Centred application comprising a Knowledge-Based Expert System (DEMARECEXPERT),
a Database Management System (REPCON) and Evaluation program
(ECON) alongside visualisation technologies is developed to produce an innovative
platform which will facilitate and encourage the development of knowledge in concrete
repair. Diagnosis, Evaluation, MAintenance and REpair of Concrete structures
(DEMAREQ is a flexible application which can be used in four modes of Education,
Diagnostic, Evaluation and Evolution. In the educational mode an inexperienced user can
develop a better understanding of the repair of concrete technology by navigating through
a database of textual and pictorial data.
In the diagnostic mode, pictures and descriptive information taken from the database and
performance of the expert system (DEMAREC-EXPERT) are used in a way that makes
problem solving and decision making easier. The DEMAREC-EXPERT system is
coupled to the REPCON (as an independent database) in order to provide the user with
recommendations related to the best course required for maintenance and in the selection
of materials and methods for the repair of concrete.
In the evaluation mode the conditions observed are described in unambiguous terms that
can be used by the user to be able to take engineering and management actions for the
repair and maintenance of the structure.
In the evolution mode of the application, the nature of distress, repair and maintenance of
concrete structures within the extent of the database management system has been
assessedT. he new methodology of data/usere valuation could have wider implications in
many knowledge rich areas of expertise. The benefit of using REPCON lies in the
enhanced levels of confidence which can be attributed to the data and to contribution of
that data. Effectively, REPCON is designed to model a true evolution of a field of
expertise but allows that expertise to move on in faster and more structured manner.
This research has wider implications than within the realm of concrete repair. The
methodology described in this thesis is developed to provide tecýnology transfer of
information from experts, specialists to other practitioners and vice versa and it provides
a common forum for communication and exchange information between them. Indeed,
one of the strengths of the system is the way in which it allows the promotion and
relegation of knowledge according to the opinion of users of different levels of ability
from expert to novice. It creates a flexible environment in which an inexperienced user
can develop his knowledge in maintenance and concrete repair structures. It is explained
how an expert and a specialist can contribute his experience and knowledge towards
improving and evolving the problem solving capability of the application