In computer science, rule-based systems are used as a way to store and manipulate knowledge to interpret information in a useful way. They are often used in artificial intelligence applications and research.

Contents 1 Applications 2 Construction 3 References 4 See also

[edit] Applications

A classic example of a rule-based system is the domain-specific expert system that uses rules to make deductions or choices. For example, an expert system might help a doctor choose the correct diagnosis based on a cluster of symptoms, or select tactical moves to play a game.

Rule-based systems can be used to perform lexical analysis to compile or interpret computer programs, or in natural language processing.

Rule-based programming attempts to derive execution instructions from a starting set of data and rules, which is a more indirect method than using a imperative programming language which lists execution steps straightforwardly.

[edit] Construction

A typical rule-based system has four basic components:^[1]

• A list of rules or rule base, which is a specific type of knowledge base.
• An inference engine or semantic reasoner, which infers information or takes action based on the interaction of input and the rule base.
• Temporary working memory.
• A user interface or other connection to the outside world through which input and output signals are received and sent.

[edit] References

[edit] See also

• RuleML