This book provides an introduction to fuzzy logic and surveys emerging
research trends and the application of state-of-the-art fuzzy hybrid
computing techniques in the field of construction engineering and
management. Authors cover the theory and implementation of fuzzy
hybrid computing methodologies for arithmetic, optimization, machine
learning, multi-criteria decision-making, simulation, cognitive maps and data
modelling. The practical application of these techniques to solve real-world
problems across a wide range of construction engineering and management
issues is also demonstrated and discussed.


The completion of effectively planned, executed and controlled construction
projects is dependent on numerous interacting factors and human activities,
both of which introduce vagueness and subjective uncertainty into already
complex processes. While expert knowledge is an essential component of
effective decision-making, analysis and consideration of expert knowledge
expressed in linguistic terms remains a challenging aspect of construction
engineering and management.



Fuzzy logic, which has applications in many disciplines, has the potential
to address certain challenges inherent in construction engineering and
management, in part because of its strengths in modelling human reasoning,
dealing with subjective uncertainty and computing with linguistic terms.
However, fuzzy logic alone has a number of limitations that can only be
overcome by its integration with other, complementary methodologies,
together leading to advanced and powerful fuzzy hybrid computing
techniques.



This book is of particular interest to students, researchers and practitioners
who want to learn about the latest developments in fuzzy hybrid computing
in construction engineering and management.