Fuzzy electronics

From ArticleWorld

Fuzzy electronics refers to that field of electronics which deals with fuzzy logic, as compared to the two-state logic which is used in digital electronics. Fuzzy logic has a wide range of applications particularly in the domains of control systems and artificial intelligence.

Normally control can be carried out by specialized devices called controllers, which are used in many variations and in conjunction with other devices. These could involve logic controls and feedback or linear controls. Fuzzy logic is a major advancement in the arena of control systems. The real-world utility of controls can be harmonized with the straightforward design of logic.

The meaning of fuzzy logic

Fuzzy logic is derived from the theory of fuzzy sets which deals with reasoning that is approximate rather than deduced precisely from classical predicate logic. In the classical set theory, the membership of elements in relation to a set is decided in binary terms with a crisp condition. An element can thus either belong to the set or not belong to it. However, according to the fuzzy set theory, a gradual assessment of an element’s membership is done in relation to a set. A so-called ‘membership function’ helps in this regard.

An important point to be noted is that fuzzy logic is not based on randomness; it is in fact based on vague definitions of sets. Simply put, fuzzy logic permits membership values between or equal to 1 and 0 and shades of grey along with black and white. Fuzzy logic has found wide acceptance. However, it continues to be regarded controversial by some mathematicians.

Applications of fuzzy electronics

The technology of fuzzy electronics finds wide use. A number of household appliances like washing machines and refrigerators employ fuzzy electronic devices. In such uses it may be required to measure quantities which do not have discrete values. For example, a washing machine may need to adjust the speed of wash cycles according to the load. A refrigerator would need to adjust the temperature inside it depending on the number of items being stored.

A modern sophisticated example of the use of this technology is in high-performance error correction to enhance the reception over a limited-bandwidth link disturbed by noise accompanying the signals.