On the limits of expert systems and engineering models in process control

The review is based on an analysis of current literature of expert systems and of system engineering models in dynamic process control. It starts with an analysis of the mental operations and cognitive requirements needed for supervisory control. Mental models are discussed as a function of situational requirements as well as of personal strategies. Systems engineering models and expert systems are briefly described and their function as decision support tools evaluated. Criteria are the overall functionality, similarity of knowledge bases and reasoning strategies of the human and the support system, adaptability to the operator's skill level and self-explanation of the support system in the interaction mode. As a result, system engineering models are only of limited value for knowledge-based process control. Expert systems seem to be very valuable tools for augmenting human decision making in process control, if the interaction problem can be solved.