Describes an integrated expert system developed to facilitate the design of window glass for structural strength, hydrostatic loads, sound attenuation and solar control. The integrated software consists of a text-based interface, a rule-based expert system and two neural networks. The text of a glazing design guide is linked by related topics and concepts. States the software's design feature lets the user enter design parameters for the window choice via an interactive consultation into a rule-based expert system that critiques the design. The technical aspects of the glass's structural strength are based primarily on linear methods published by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association. Statistical correlations for the new non-linear failure prediction for glass strength are used to automatically design for the minimum glass thickness required to withstand a specified load. Neural networks estimate values for sound attenuation and solar transmission characteristics from laboratory test data on selected glass constructions.

KEYWORDS: Designing, computer programs, expert systems, windows, glazing.