title: Fuzzy min-max neural networks. I. Classification.
abstract: A supervised learning neural network classifier that utilizes fuzzy sets as pattern classes is described. Each fuzzy set is an aggregate (union) of fuzzy set hyperboxes. A fuzzy set hyperbox is an n-dimensional box defined by a min point and a max point with a corresponding membership function. The min-max points are determined using the fuzzy min-max learning algorithm, an expansion-contraction process that can learn nonlinear class boundaries in a single pass through the data and provides the ability to incorporate new and refine existing classes without retraining. The use of a fuzzy set approach to pattern classification inherently provides a degree of membership information that is extremely useful in higher-level decision making. The relationship between fuzzy sets and pattern classification is described. The fuzzy min-max classifier neural network implementation is explained, the learning and recall algorithms are outlined, and several examples of operation demonstrate the strong qualities of this new neural network classifier.
authors.affiliation: Orincon Corp., San Diego, CA.
authors.forename: P K
authors.initials: PK
authors.lastname: Simpson