Embedded Knowledge in Software: 1. Description of a System for Contaminant Transport Modeling

Abstract

Computer software with embedded knowledge has the potential to improve the utility and usability of computer models. We explore these opportunities with the software package Expert ROKEY that includes EXPAR, a knowledge‐based system to assist in the preparation of input data for a simple mass transport model. EXPAR is partitioned into two levels. At the top level is a set of computer forms that contain groups of related parameters and corresponding entry fields. Users can either volunteer parameter values or request help from an assistance program. Elaboration programs provide supporting information for each parameter and brief tutorials for the mass transport processes included in the model. The sets of assistance and elaboration programs represent the bottom level of EXPAR. This model preprocessor contains useful features like tutorial and data‐base information, systematic procedures for deriving parameter values, capabilities for checking the completeness and consistency of data, and a virtually transparent user interface with the computer, which are applicable to codes of all types.