Question

Identify each of the following responses as being reflex, knowledge based, or goal based. Justify your answers. a. A computer program translating text from German to English b. A thermostat turning on the furnace when the temperature in a house drops below the current setting c. A pilot landing a plane safely on a runway

Short answer

a. Knowledge-based, b. Reflex, c. Goal-based.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Type of Response for Task A

Task A involves a computer program translating text from German to English. This is a **knowledge-based** task because it relies on stored linguistic knowledge, rules, and data to translate effectively. The program must 'understand' the structure and vocabulary of both languages to perform accurate translation.

Identify the Type of Response for Task B

Task B involves a thermostat turning on the furnace when the temperature drops below a set point. This is a **reflex response** because the action is automatic and triggered by a specific stimulus (temperature detection) without the need for reasoning or goal evaluation.

Identify the Type of Response for Task C

Task C involves a pilot landing a plane safely on a runway. This is a **goal-based response** because it requires planning, decision-making, and actions directed toward achieving a specific goal — landing safely. The pilot must evaluate conditions and make adjustments to reach the intended outcome.

Key concepts

Reflex Agents

Reflex agents operate on a simple mechanism of stimulus-response. They function without consideration or reasoning about their actions and lack a model of the world. A reflex agent's actions are directly triggered by certain recognizable conditions. For example, consider a thermostat in a home heating system. It activates the furnace when the temperature falls below its preset value. Reflecting a very basic form of intelligence, reflex agents are efficient for predictable scenarios but fall short when faced with complex, unforeseen changes.

Key characteristics of reflex agents include:

• Highly reactive to specific triggers.
• No memory of past states or learning from previous actions.
• Limited ability to adapt or accommodate new information.

In short, reflex agents are akin to a simple on-off switch in their functioning, providing results based solely on the current input they receive.

Knowledge-Based Systems

Knowledge-based systems are designed to utilize stored knowledge to make informed decisions. These systems rely on a comprehensive understanding of the domain they operate within, employing sets of rules and databases to interpret and act upon information. A prominent example is a computer program translating languages. To translate effectively from German to English, the program must draw from a rich database of linguistic rules and vocabulary. It needs to 'understand' grammar and context from both languages to ensure accurate and meaningful translations.

Features of knowledge-based systems include:

• Utilization of extensive data and rules.
• Ability to infer new information through logical reasoning.
• Capable of handling complex, domain-specific tasks.

Such systems are capable of processing more nuanced information than reflex agents, using structured knowledge to tackle different challenges effectively.

Goal-Based Agents

Goal-based agents are a step further in complexity and capability. These agents not only react to stimuli but also strive to achieve specific objectives, requiring them to plan a series of actions. For example, a pilot tasked with landing an airplane safely must continuously analyze data, evaluate environmental conditions, and adjust strategies to achieve the goal of a safe landing. This type of agent combines sensory input with reasoning processes to make informed decisions that lead toward an intended outcome.

Essential aspects of goal-based agents include:

• Considering future consequences and objectives in decision-making.
• Using a model of the world to simulate potential actions.
• Adjusting plans dynamically as new information becomes available.

Goal-based agents are most suitable for tasks that require flexibility and adaptation, allowing them to navigate challenges that change over time or require strategic adjustments.