Concepts

1. Artificial Intelligence attempts to simulate human thought processes and actions such as:
   1. Reasoning
   2. Learning from past actions
   3. Simulation of human senses (vision and touch)
2. The goal of artificial intelligence is to help people be more productive.
3. Practical applications includes business, law, medicine, etc.
4. Two area of artificial intelligence are:
   1. Knowledge-based systems (expert systems)
   2. Robotics  

Knowledge-Based (expert) Systems

1. Captures the knowledge of a human expert and makes it accessible through a computer.
2. Expert systems are computer programs that provide advice to decision-makers.
3. Expert systems use knowledge bases that contain:
   • Specific facts
   • Rules to relate these facts
   • User input to formulate recommendations and decisions
4. The sequence  of processing is determined by interaction between user and knowledge base.
5. Expert systems use fuzzy logic (allows computers to respond in a humanlike way)
6. Some expert systems applications include knowledge bases for areas in:
   1. Medicine
   2. Geology
   3. Chemistry
   4. Military Science
   5. Photography
7. Examples:
   1. Grain Marketing Advisor -  helps farmers select the best way to market their grain.
   2. Senex -  show how to treat breast cancer based on advanced treatment techniques.

Robotics

• The field of study concerned with developing and using computer controlled machines that mimic the motor activities of humans.
• Often used to handle dangerous, repetitive tasks.
• There are three types of robots:
  • Industrial robots -  used in factories to perform assembly-line tasks such as:.
    • Painting and polishing in automobile plants
    • Pattern cutters in garment industry
    • Pick up objects with claws
  • Perception systems -  imitate human senses to:
    • Guide machine tools
    • Inspect products
    • Identify/sort parts
    • Welding
    • Putting parts in place
  • Mobile robots -  act as a transporter to:
    • Carry mail through an office following a preprogrammed route
    • Deliver supplies and equipments at medical centers. 

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