inference engine

An inference engine is a core component of an expert system, a type of computer program that uses artificial intelligence to solve problems within a specialized domain that typically requires human expertise. The inference engine works in conjunction with a knowledge base, which stores facts and rules about a specific subject.12

The inference engine's primary function is to interpret and evaluate the information in the knowledge base to draw conclusions or make deductions. It typically uses "if-then" rules (production rules) to process information. For example, if the knowledge base contains rules like "if X is true, then Y is true" and "if Y is true, then Z is true," the inference engine can deduce that "if X is true, then Z is true". This process allows the expert system to answer user queries, classify information, diagnose problems, or make predictions within its specialized area. Some inference engines also utilize fuzzy logic to handle vague or uncertain information.21