The SharpKBE software provides a graphical user interface environment for domain experts to build and manage knowledge base systems. Knowledge bases can be exported/translated to various target languages automatically, including customizable target languages. The tool enhances current practices by minimizing reliance on toolsmiths for system workflow management, and also improves the quality and maintenance of those systems by reducing the number of errors within the knowledge bases. This tool's primary capability is in the area of expert systems modeling, specifically where there is a need to capture and efficiently manage large quantities of domain information (see figure).

Benefits Chain Diagram
The SharpKBE supports C# and SHINE targets, and in concert with SHINE additionally produces C and C++ targets. The knowledge base, which is created via graphical expression editors, is saved to a standardized XML document structure that is more flexible than previously existing formats, which were written in LISP-style syntax. This provides the user with intuitive mechanisms for viewing and modifying knowledge bases (see example) as well as the ability to produce customized style sheets. The editor can support the auto-coding paradigm for fault detection systems in flight software applications with reduced cost.

This program was written by Raffi Tikidjian, Mark James, and Ryan Mackey of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Karina Edmonds of the California Institute of Technology at (626) 395-2322. Refer to NPO-44476.

Topics:
Computer software and hardware Data management Documentation Electrical systems Fault detection Simulation and modeling Software Standardization Tools and equipment
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
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Knowledge Base Editor (SharpKBE)

(reference NPO-44476) is currently available for download from the TSP library.

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NASA Tech Briefs Magazine

This article first appeared in the September, 2007 issue of NASA Tech Briefs Magazine (Vol. 31 No. 9).

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Overview

The document is a User Manual (UM) for the Knowledge Base Editor (SharpKBE), a software tool developed under the auspices of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The manual is structured to guide users through the installation, main functionalities, and operational aspects of the software.

The Knowledge Base Editor is a Microsoft .Net Windows Forms User Control, which means it integrates seamlessly with Windows Forms applications. The installation process is straightforward, as there are no unique steps specific to this user control; users are directed to refer to the Windows Forms and Visual Studio documentation for detailed guidance.

Upon launching the software, users are greeted with a main screen that features two toolbars: the top toolbar is dedicated to Knowledge Bases, while the bottom one focuses on Knowledge Base Objects. The interface also includes a Knowledge Base Outline View on the left and a Knowledge Base Presentation View on the right, facilitating easy navigation and management of knowledge bases.

The manual outlines various functions available within the software, including creating new knowledge bases, adding attributes, rules, and functions, as well as editing and deleting knowledge base objects. Users can also open multiple knowledge bases simultaneously and save them in different formats, including the option to specify an XSLT stylesheet for data transformation.

The document includes a version history section, detailing updates made to the manual and the software itself. The most recent version, 8.0, was released on April 28, 2006, and includes comprehensive updates based on user feedback and new feature implementations.

Additionally, the manual provides contact information for further assistance, emphasizing the support available through NASA's Innovative Partnerships Program. It also includes a disclaimer regarding the use of the information contained within the document, clarifying that the U.S. Government does not assume liability for its use.

Overall, the User Manual serves as a comprehensive guide for users of the Knowledge Base Editor, detailing its installation, features, and operational instructions, while also providing historical context and support resources.