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Computer-integrated monitoring and control of a composting process using an expert system
Abstract
This project was undertaken to explore the capability of an expert system to help control and manage a composting process. To accomplish this goal, an expert system-assisted computer control program was developed for an "aerated static pile" composting system, assuming a process control system with multiple sensors and control devices. The control program developed for this system integrates two expert system programs with a conventional data acquisition system (DAS) and several Basic computer programs. The DAS performs the essential monitoring and control functions. The expert systems and other programs provide supporting information. The first expert system evaluates the composting raw materials and initial conditions. It assists the operator in setting control parameters for the DAS and established criteria for evaluating process data. The second expert system assesses the status of the process from the data returned by the DAS. It does this at 3-hour intervals and more thoroughly at 24-hour intervals. It produces a report which summarizes the process status and lists any potential or apparent problems. At the 24-hour evaluation stage, it automatically adjusts control parameters as necessary. The Basic programs perform tasks which are cumbersome for the expert system such as obtaining numerical information, performing calculations, and accessing data files. The control program was tested by supplying it with process data from the computer keyboard and from an electronic instrument panel which simulates the sensors of the control system. The data was intended to produce predictable results which could be compared to the control program's results. In nearly all cases, the control program produce results consistent with those expected. It also performed well functionally. All components of the system were activated properly and information was successfully transferred among the programs. Based on the performance and capability of the control program, expert systems can potentially play a beneficial role in control systems for composting processes. Their utility for this purpose depends on the specific needs of each composting facility. Large facilities with inexperienced staff and a reliance on a high level of technology are most likely to benefit from an expert system.
Subject Area
Agricultural engineering|Computer science|Artificial intelligence|Civil engineering
Recommended Citation
Rynk, Robert Francis, "Computer-integrated monitoring and control of a composting process using an expert system" (1992). Doctoral Dissertations Available from Proquest. AAI9233155.
https://scholarworks.umass.edu/dissertations/AAI9233155