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Knowledge engineering techniques were used to study the decision process for choosing which of a set of recommended energy conservation options would be implemented. Building management decision-makers from both the private and public sectors were interviewed to gain an understanding of the decision-making process. Decision objectives were identified and the process computerized. Results of the study are twofold. The first is a formalization of the decision-making process. The formalization enables both efficient treatment of large numbers of objectives and demonstration of optimality in meeting objectives. Second, the knowledge-based system produced is programmed in a conventional programming environment rather than a rule-based expert system shell, demonstrating the range of applicability of knowledge engineering techniques.

Citation: Symposium, ASHRAE Trans., vol. 95, pt. 2