Rule-based system application for a technical problem in inventory issue

Abstract

This paper addresses a marked variation of the classical trim-loss problem. This problem has been dealt with a rule-based approach due to its inherent complexity in the case under consideration. A rule-based model was evolved as the basis for the expert system development. The paper emphasises on the practical application of a rule-based model for inventory issue procedure in a construction company. Due to the peculiar nature of the problem, issuing procedures for steel pipes are quite different from the normal inventory issue practices. Inventory Management procedures which are guided by historic practices, rules of thumb and mathematical models were found to be unsuitable for the case under study and hence motivates the use of a “rule-based system” that has evolved from the “expert” knowledge of inventory personnel. The paper provides some of the implementation modules and highlights the benefits of the rule-based system for the construction company under study.