摘要：A knowledge-based system in structural component design based on fracture mechanics is developed in this paper. The system consists of several functional parts: a general inference engine, a set of knowledge bases and data-bases, an interpretation engine, a bases administration system and the interface. It can simulate a human expert to make analysis and design scheme mainly for four kinds of typical structural components widely used in shipbuilding industry: pressure vessels, huge rotation constructions, pump-rod and welded structures. It is an open system which may be broadened and perfected to cover a wider range of engineering application through the modification and enlargement of knowledge bases and data-bases. It has a natural and friendly interface that may be easily operated. An on-line help service is also provided.