A knowledge analysis model for knowledge engineering in the construction industry

The object of this research is to provide a direction to pursue in seeking better methodology for knowledge base systems development in the construction industry. Knowledge engineering is the art of designing and building a knowledge base system, and this research aims to develop a systematic framework for knowledge engineering. A structured model for knowledge analysis is required to support such a framework. Therefore, the specific objective of the research is to develop a model which will form the structuring principle for analyzing and organizing knowledge and which can be used as a conceptual framework for knowledge elicitation and documentation. A background study was made to highlight the current state of the art of knowledge base systems technology. Two prototypes were developed in problem domains selected from the construction industry. The aim is to examine the development process of knowledge base systems and the limitations of current approach to the knowledge engineering process. This has shown that the ad hoc rapid prototyping approach is not satisfactory especially in extending and refining the systems. Difficulties arise from the fact that a systematic framework with appropriate supporting tools for knowledge engineering is not available. There is no structured method for knowledge analysis and documentation. Therefore, this thesis proposes a systematic framework for knowledge engineering and develops a structured knowledge analysis model to support the framework. The model is developed from an object-oriented analysis, entity relationship approach, and systems analysis. The model proposes that objects, relationships, and properties are the key components in modeling a problem domain. They form the structuring principle for analyzing and organizing knowledge. A guideline for use of the model is also devised. The applications of the model are then demonstrated by applying the knowledge analysis model to the same problem domains used for rapid prototyping. Comparison was then made with the rapid prototyping approach in the area of knowledge acquisition. The comparison shows that the knowledge analysis model is a more systematic tool for professionals to analyze, document and refine their own knowledge and expertise. The documented knowledge should also be able to act as a common medium for communication, knowledge transfer, and knowledge base system development.