| The objective of this doctoral engineering project was to provide a proof-of-demonstration that a microcomputer-based system could act as a "field tool" for the surveillance of nuclear weapon and missile technology. The "expert system" data base was developed from data provided by two systems-based conceptual models. The first model is a rocket-boosted, boron slurry fueled ramjet missile. The second model is a lens implosion nuclear warhead. The missile model is also intended to provide a concept for a supersonic standoff weapon with a goal of using half of the components as commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) or dual-use products. Both models were chosen because of their desirability among "potentially proliferant" nations and encompass both the warhead and the delivery system. The project computer was based on a 486DX2 microprocessor and the operating system software was DOS 6.2. The expert system programs were XXXPERT version 24, a shareware program, and its derivative, ExpertFiles, developed by the writer to fulfill the expanded requirements of the project. The two programs were compared through fifty exercises where key words were provided for data and file retrieval and cross referencing. Both programs offer rule-based engines and were used to integrate specific spreadsheet and DOS batch files into an expert system data base. ExpertFiles differed from XXXPERT V24, beyond the extended pattern matching functions, to allow for experimentation with user interfaces and inclusion of more sophisticated subroutines for automatic file retrieval and cross referencing. The successful demonstration suggests that microcomputer-based field tools may be effective in supplementing current and future missions in arms control, verification, trade interdiction, and peace keeping. |
