Case Based Reasoning

Melanie HansonEngr 315

What is Case-Based Reasoning?

• Storing information from previous experiences

• Using previously gained knowledge to solve current problems

• Similar to human problem solving methods

Basic Steps

• Identify the problem/case• Look for a similar, previously

experienced case• Predict a solution, possibly

different from past experiences• Evaluate the solution• Update the system with the results

4 General Concepts• Retrieve

– Find similar cases

• Reuse– Use old case to

solve current case

• Revise– Create a solution

• Retain– Save the correct

solution

Representation Issues

• Decide what to store• Choosing the appropriate structure• Organizing memory • General knowledge

How are old cases used?

• Compositional: Combine several solutions to make one best solution

• Transformational: Use the solution from a previous case

• Derivational: Apply the solution achieving process

Why Case-Based Reasoning is Good

• Low maintenance• Improves with use• Uses learned knowledge plus

general knowledge• Case representation is easy to

understand

Trends in Case Based Reasoning

• Integrate with other learning methods

• Integrate with other reasoning components

• Incorporate into massive parallel processing

• Advancement by focusing on new cognitive aspects

Applications of CBR

• Help desks• Diagnosing problems• Decision making when considering

past similar situations