Borg: A knowledge-based system for automatic generation of image processing programs

This article deals with the design of a system that automates the generatio n of image processing applications. Users describe tasks to perform on imag es and the system constructs a specific plan, which, after being executed, should yield the desired results. Our approach of this problem belongs to t he more general category of systems for the supervision of a library of ope rators. The generation of an application is here considered as the dynamic building of chains of image processing through the selection, parameter tun ing and scheduling of existing operators. To develop such a system, we sugg est to use a knowledge-rich resolution model and to integrate seven design rules. The Borg system has been developed following these prescriptions. It hinges on hierarchical, opportunistic and incremental planning by means of knowledge sources of the Blackboard model, which enable to take into accou nt planning, evaluation and knowledge acquisition issues.