Fuzzy Systems derive from the theory of Fuzzy Logic and Fuzzy Sets. This theory provides the means to design and develop systems that can operate and take decisions in ambiguous environments, much like an expert does.

 

In mathematical terms, the word "fuzziness" implies a plurality of values for a single variable and derives from Heisenberg's uncertainty principle. Fuzzy logic allows us to characterize objects, states or properties, whose limits are ambiguous, and classify them in multiple sets. Thus, an element (variable) can belong to more than one categories by a percentage, instead of belonging to just one category. For instance, a phrase can be 30% true and 70% false, instead of true or false, or the water in a bath tube can be 45% cold and 55% hot, instead of either cold or hot. This creates a whole new way of modern logic that relies not on strict mathematical descriptions, but rather on a new mathematical model that attempts to handle uncertainty.

 

Sounds complicated? Well, it is complicated as much as our real life is, since human situations, thoughts and operations are very usually characterized by ambiguity...

 

Fuzzy Systems applications are widely utilized in the area of automatic control in industry, but their theory is quickly spreading in other fields, as in "smart" automobiles and electrical devices, in movie making, in polls and surveys, in psychology, medical science or seismology!