LOGIC-BASED CONFIGURATION WITH A SEMANTIC NETWORK

The beacon logic-based configurator is designed to ensure the correct and complete configuration of large computer systems at the time of order entry. BEACON is based on a semantic network, KNET, implemented in PROLOG. Unlike other configuration expert systems, BEACON uses a declarative, logic-based approach, as opposed to a data-driven production system or hybrid design. Among other virtues, this allows for a completely interactive ordering session which is guaranteed correct with respect to the underlying model, rather than a batch-mode order-correcting system. KNET allows for configuration by individuation of an abstract, generic representation in a manner that is analogous to the instantiation of logical variables in a PROLOG-style proof. © 1990.