The objective of this paper is to explain the development of an interactive knowledge-based expert system to assist the engineer in the preliminary earthquake-resistant design of buildings. A knowledge-based prototype named PERDA (Preliminary Earthquake-Resistant Design Assistant) has been developed and is described both conceptually and practically. A compilation of knowledge and expertise from a variety of sources is incorporated in the system. The knowledge base consists of the seismic provisions of building codes, other existing information from design guides and technical documents. The knowledge base also includes the lessons learned from post-earthquake studies. The aim of such a design tool is to provide a practical aid which is able to assist, guide and advise the engineer, moreover to make the necessary design techniques available to the designer. Within the proposed knowledge-based, a seismic design methodology has been adopted which takes into account all stages of the design process such as conceptual design, preliminary analysis, detailed analysis and final design. The methodology is applicable to all lateral resisting systems. The proposed knowledge-based employs a combination of production rules, frames with inheritance, data-driven procedures, facts and mathematical functions, moreover it links to programming languages and finite element programs.

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