Thread: Fuzzy Logic

A relatively new concept being used in the development of natural languages is fuzzy logic. The traditional logic behind computers is based on either/or, yes/no, true/false reasoning. Such computers make "crisp" distinctions, lead*ing to precise decision making. Fuzzy logic is a method of dealing with imprecise data and uncertainty, with problems that have many answers rather than one. Unlike classical logic, fuzzy logic is more like human rea*soning: It deals with probability and credibility. That is, instead of being sim*ply true or false, a proposition is mostly true or mostly false, or more true or more false.

A frequently given example of an application of fuzzy logic, is in running elevators. How long will most people wait in an elevator before getting antsy? About a minute and a half, say researchers at the Otis Elevator Company. The Otis artificial intelligence division has thus done considerable research into how elevators may be programmed to reduce waiting time. Ordinar*ily when someone on a floor in the middle of a building pushes the call but*ton, the system will send whichever elevator is closest. However, that car might be filled with passengers, who will be delayed by the new stop, whereas another car that is farther away might be empty. In a fuzzy-logic system, the computer assesses not only which car is nearest but also how full the cars are before deciding which one to send.

Fuzzy logic is a method of dealing with imprecise data and uncertainty, with problems that have many answers rather than one. Unlike classical logic