An expert system using simulation measures of effectiveness

Real-time environments require that decisions be made in time-constrained situations. Traditional deliberation methods which are performed regardless of time considerations are not adequate to meet the demand of this type of environment. Anytime algorithms provide a method for modeling the explicit control of real-time computations. This paper discusses the incorporation of an anytime algorithm to simulation model measures of effectiveness (MOEs). The simulation model was used by an expert system to optimize the selection of an automated guided vehicle (AGV) strategy employed in a manufacturing environment. The problems encountered during the incorporation of an anytime algorithm to the decision-making process are presented, along with the solutions which were developed.<>