FUZZY-LOGIC APPLICATIONS - TECHNOLOGICAL AND STRATEGIC ISSUES

Fuzzy logic was invented about 30 years ago. The past few years have seen an extraordinary spurt in the commercialization of the technology. Not only has fuzzy logic significantly enhanced knowledge-based/expert system technology, it has fundamentally altered the granularity of intelligence. With the help of fuzzy logic, manufacturers of home appliances are today embedding intelligence inside individual products. The application of fuzzy logic has also transformed industrial process control and enabled new product development strategies. Although theoretical developments in fuzzy logic have largely occurred in America and Europe, Japanese companies have spearheaded the commercialization of the technology. Aimed at an audience of business/industrial managers, this paper reviews the evolution of fuzzy logic technology and analyzes the strategic business impact of the technology.