Learning stability features on sigmoid fuzzy cognitive maps through a swarm intelligence approach

Abstract

Fuzzy Cognitive Maps (FCM) are a proper knowledge-based tool for modeling and simulation. They are denoted as directed weighted graphs with feedback allowing causal reasoning. According to the transformation function used for updating the activation value of concepts, FCM can be grouped in two large clusters: discrete and continuous. It is notable that FCM having discrete outputs never exhibit chaotic states, but this premise can not be ensured for FCM having continuous output. This paper proposes a learning methodology based on Swarm Intelligence for estimating the most adequate transformation function for each map neuron (concept). As a result, we can obtain FCM showing better stability properties, allowing better consistency in the hidden patterns codified by the map. The performance of the proposed methodology is studied by using six challenging FCM concerning the field of the HIV protein modeling. © Springer-Verlag 2013.