Book 5

This comprehensive treatment of the field of intelligent systems is written by two of the foremost authorities in the field. The authors clearly examine the theoretical and practical aspects of these systems. The book focuses on the NIST-RCS (Real-time Control System) model that has been used recently in the Mars Rover.

Book 7

Engineering of Mind

by James S. Albus and Alexander M. Meystel

Published 14 September 2001

Presenting a reference model architecture for the design of intelligent systems

Engineering of Mind presents the foundations for a computational theory of intelligence. It discusses the main streams of investigation that will eventually converge in a scientific theory of mind and proposes an avenue of research that might best lead to the development of truly intelligent systems.

This book presents a model of the brain as a hierarchy of massive parallel computational modules and data structures interconnected by information pathways. Using this as the basic model on which intelligent systems should be based, the authors propose a reference model architecture that accommodates concepts from artificial intelligence, control theory, image understanding, signal processing, and decision theory. Algorithms, procedures, and data embedded within this architecture would enable the analysis of situations, the formulation of plans, the choice of behaviors, and the computation of uncertainties. The computational power to implement the model can be achieved in practical systems in the foreseeable future through hierarchical and parallel distribution of computational tasks.

The authors' reference model architecture is expressed in terms of the Real-time Control System (RCS) that has been developed primarily at the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Suitable for engineers, computer scientists, researchers, and students, Engineering of Mind blends current theory and practice to achieve a coherent model for the design of intelligent systems.


As control systems become increasingly complex, there is a growing need for software tools for use in their design and implementation. Introducing proven, free-to-use software from the NIST's real-time control systems (RCS) library, this practical resource arms readers with the tools they need to construct hierarchical and distributed RCSs for challenging industrial applications. Featuring numerous design and implementation examples, this is a complete reference to high-technology automation solutions.
Market: Electronic Engineers and Computer Scientists involved with controls; Professionals in manufacturing, process control, and robotics.