A knowledge–based expert system (LIFTAN) for analysis of manual lifting tasks is described. The system, written in MacLISP and implemented on a DEC-10 mainframe computer, consists of three modules: a knowledge base, a general purpose inference engine, and a human interface with explanation capabilities. The system allows a non-expert in the field of manual lifting to utilize the relevant knowledge and apply it to analyze specific work situations. It can also be used as intelligent computer-assisted instruction for engineering students.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
References
1.
AyoubM.M.SelanJ.L.LilesD.H., 1983, An ergonomics approach for the design of manual materials-handling tasks. Human Factors, 25(5), 507–516.
2.
DuboisD.PradeH., 1980, Fuzzy Sets and Systems. Theory and Applications. New York: Academic Press.
3.
HEALTH AND SAFETY COMMISSION, 1982, Proposals for health and safety (manual handling of loads) regulations and guidance. Her Majesty's Stationery Office, England, United Kingdom.
4.
KarwowskiW., 1984, ESMMA - a special purpose, knowledge-based expert system for the evaluation and design of manual material handling activities.Unpublished Technical Report, Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY.
5.
KirchnerR.L., 1985, Building a General Purpose Inference Engine for Expert Systems. Unpublished M.S. Thesis, Department of Engineering Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY.
6.
MitalA., 1984, Maximum weights of lift acceptable to male and female industrial workers for extended work shifts. Ergonomics, 27, 1115–1126.
7.
MulhollandN.O., 1985, An Experimental Rule-based Expert System for Manual Materials Handling. Unpublished M. Eng. Thesis, Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY.
8.
NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH, 1981, Work Practices Guide for Manual Lifting, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
9.
PitmanK.M., 1983, The Revised MACLISP Manual, Cambridge: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Laboratory for Computer Science, Report No. MIT/LCS/TR–295, May.
10.
SnookS.H., 1978, The design of manual handling tasks. Ergonomics, 21, 963–985.
11.
ZadehL.A., 1975, The concept of linguistic variable and its application to approximate reasoning. Information Sciences Part I, 8.
