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The need for expert systems in the Heavy Truck and Bus Industry is rapidly approaching a critical point in time. This time reference is the revised emission standards and requirements for heavy duty diesels. This need is related to the influx of electronically controlled engines and their companion the electronically controlled transmission as well as the present shortage of skilled mechanics. This paper discusses the conceptual approach and reasons that expert systems are well suited as a diagnostic aid for vehicular repair. This paper also discusses the implementation of a commercially available expert system for the diagnosis of class 7 and 8 vehicles. The body of this paper will be divided into four discussions. First, applicability of AI/KB programs used for vehicle diagnostics. Second, the use of expert systems to diagnose electronically controlled power modules and their related interactivities with the vehicle.

The subject of alternate fuels has been addressed for the past 20 years in an effort to solve emissions and world fuel supply concerns. A recent study of the available literature and technology to date pointed out a need for a single source of information for the fleet operator. This paper will be divided into discussions of emissions requirements, world fuel supplies, alternate fuel options and the technical concerns to the fleet operator.

For over a decade engine manufacturers have been pursuing alternative fuel strategies for vehicle powertrains. First came the discussion of fuel selection. Next, whether or not these alternative fuels can provide the utility offered by traditional diesel. Finally, the footrace of technology and hardware to provide utility, reliability and maintainability with the use of alternative fuels. Now the day has come where many alternative fuels are a practical reality. The body of this paper will discuss the utilization of natural gas as an alternative fuel. This paper targets the fleet operator in an effort to provide a single source of information in a concise format. A discussion of emission standards, engine operational strategies, component technology, fuel characteristics and the utility of using natural gas as a fuel will be addressed. The understanding of present and future engine development is of great importance to a successful fleet operation.

Emission standards derived to protect the environment have driven engine manufacturers to accelerate their efforts in engine emission development in order to meet the mandated standards. This paper will outline the current and upcoming emission standards, the technology involved in accomplishing the requirements and the solutions to in-service engines meeting their emission standards. The paper targets the fleet operator to provide a single source of information in an effort to alert them to upcoming requirements and what can be expected when specifying equipment for procurement. The technology discussed in this paper varies in its application for several engine makes and models. Since technology transfers from application to application it is vital that these ideas and concepts be explained.