The application of evidential reasoning in a portable maintenance aid

The Dempster-Shafer method of evidential reasoning, which incorporates reasoning under uncertainty in a matrix-based approach to inferencing, is described. The approach involves evaluating information sources in terms of evidence obtained, applying a confidence value to the outcome, and allocating the confidence-modified evidence to the set of conclusions. ARINC Research Corporation is using the Dempster-Shafer approach in their Portable Interactive Troubleshooter (POINTER) System. The authors describe the steps taken to incorporate the approach in POINTER. A review of areas for future research is also provided