This paper discusses recent applications of fuzzy sets and the theory
of approximate reasoning. The primary focus is on fuzzy logic control
(FLC). We begin with a brief history of the key ideas, a survey of rec
ent applications, and a discussion of the genesis of FLC in Japan. We
then turn to a study of the general principles of FLC, considering it
as a combination of ideas from conventional control theory, artificial
intelligence, and fuzzy sets theory. We next provide a detailed analy
sis of a simple application in consumer electronics, namely, a fuzzy w
ashing machine developed by Hitachi Corporation. In concluding section
s we briefly consider other types of applications, including recent wo
rk on pilotless helicopters, fuzzy expert systems, and the concept of
a fuzzy computer, and we discuss the potential for future developments
. It is our opinion that the subject of FLC is still very much in its
infancy, and that recent events mark the beginning of an entirely new
genre of ''intelligent'' control.