AN INTEGRATED EXPERT-SYSTEM FOR OPTIMAL CROP PLANNING

A knowledge-based approach was taken in designing an integrated system for optimal crop planning. Coupled with a mathematical programming mo dule, the rule-based system was developed as a PC-based, on-farm plann ing tool in the hands of the decision maker. The combination of proble m-solving techniques offers several advantages over the use of either one alone, including ease of operation and a comprehensive planning pr ocess. Knowledge about crops and planning considerations is represente d in the form of production rules and frames. The inference engine ana lyzes the effect of specific production conditions on a wide range of crops at the farm, field, and crop levels. A synthesis of the optimal plan makes use Of an internal linear programming procedure whose outpu t is evaluated and refined by the expert system. The generated plan in cludes an assignment of specific fields to selected crops that maximiz es the net income.