An integrated engineering training aid for bridge inspection andremedial actions, a prototype expert system is being developed called fastbrid (fatigue assessment of steel bridges). The development is in 2 stages: development of a microcomputer-based prototype expertsystem; and validation of the finished system in preparation for wide distribution. The first stage has been completed. The expert system/training aid will serve as an advisory/consultant to the practitioners and as an interactive trainer to the less experienced in the area of bridge fatigue. The completed system will be combined with aninterative videodisc-based training course on bridge fatigue inspection and corrective actions. The system will help detect and solve fatigue-related problems in steel bridges. The architecture of the system is described, as well as its use and future extension.
Abstract