An Innovative Knowledge-Based System Using Fuzzy Cognitive Maps for Comand and Control Decision Making Process

A research program for the investigation of a novel knowledge-based technology employed for command and control decision making in amphibious warfare is proposed. The proposed technology is based upon the inherent causal inference and knowledge synthesis properties of the fuzzy cognitive maps which provide a nonlinear feedback dynamical system for modeling fuzzy causal knowledge process. Furthermore, fuzzy cognitive maps allow the synthesis of various different knowledge bases from different domain experts to generate a better and more robust knowledge representation. Based on the knowledge embedded in the predefined fuzzy cognitive maps, appropriate causal inference processes can be performed to enhance the decision making processes on various command and control systems. Investigations are proposed in the following areas: (1) methods to map the received information data into the node states of a fuzzy cognitive map, (2) algorithms to transfer the knowledge of various domain experts to the node links of a fuzzy cognitive map, and (3) causal inference rules and evolution algorithms for data discrimination and status prediction. With the results of these investigations, a prototype knowledge-based information fusion and data reasoning software module will be created to demonstrate the concept of using fuzzy cognitive maps for reliable and robust decision making process. There is a strong commercial and DoD need for this type of decision making technology, and TACAN has a strong prior record of commercialization of SBIR programs.