Sensors, appliance control, and fuzzy logic

Appliance control utilizing fuzzy logic inference and a new class of sensors has had a profound effect on manufacturers, suppliers, and consumers in the Japanese market. Companies in other countries should consider creating the capability to exploit a sudden shift in market direction toward embedding these technologies in appliances. A strategic plan for assuring that this shift in emphasis is a pleasant one must address three main issues. First, appliance manufacturers must target for development appliances with embedded “smart” capabilities. Second, manufacturers of sensors must be prepared to develop sensors appropriate for fuzzy logic control. Third, traditional controls theorists must develop a core understanding of fuzzy logic inference control theory, and learn when and how it is best utilized