Computational intelligence based on lattice theory

A number of di? erent instruments for design can be uni? ed in the context of lattice theory towards cross-fertilization By“latticetheory”[1]wemean, equivalently, eitherapartialordering relation [2,3]ora couple of binary algebraic operations [3, 4]. There is a growing interest in computational intelligence based on lattice theory. A number of researchers are currently active developing lattice theory based models and techniques in engineering, computer and information s- ences, applied mathematics, and other scienti? c endeavours. Some of these models and techniques are presented here. However, currently, lattice theory is not part of the mainstream of com- tationalintelligence. Amajorreasonforthisisthe“learningcurve”associated with novel notions and tools. Moreover, practitioners of lattice theory, in s- ci? c domains of interest, frequently develop their own tools and/or practices without being aware of valuable contributions made by colleagues. Hence, (potentially) useful work may be ignored, or duplicated. Yet, other times, di? erent authors may introduce a con? icting terminology. The compilation of this book is an initiative towards proliferating est- lished knowledge in the hope to further expand it, soundly. There was a critical mass of people and ideas engaged to produce this book. Around two thirds of this book’s chapters are substantial enhancements of preliminary works presented lately in a three-part special session entitled “Computational Intelligence Based on Lattice Theory” organized in the c- text of the World Congress in Computational Intelligence (WCCI), FUZZ- IEEE program, July 16-21, 2006 in Vancouver, BC, Canada. The remaining book chapters are novel contributions by other researchers.