Automating the design of high-recirculation airlift reactors using a blackboard framework

This paper describes work completed in creating a new prototype blackboard framework to automate the design process used for the design of high-recirculation airlift reactors. The new expert system framework encompasses the design programs but does not require any further modification. It aims to automate the design process and make the process more efficient. The paper begins by describing high-recirculation airlift reactors and continues by considering the function of the new framework and presenting the new framework. Components of the new system are described in terms of its function and implementation. Initial testing is described and the results are presented.