Introduction

This book presents a number of research efforts in combining AI methods or techniques to solve complex problems in various areas. The combination of different intelligent methods is an active research area in artificial intelligence (AI), since it is believed that complex problems can be more easily solved with integrated or hybrid methods, such as combinations of different soft computing methods (fuzzy logic, neural networks, and evolutionary algorithms) among themselves or with hard AI technologies like logic and rules; machine learning with soft computing and classical AI methods; and agent-based approaches with logic and non-symbolic approaches.

Current and Emerging Methods

Some of the combinations are already extensively used, including neuro-symbolic methods, neuro-fuzzy methods, and methods combining rule-based and case-based reasoning. However, other combinations are still being investigated, such as those related to the semantic web, deep learning, and swarm intelligence algorithms. Most are connected with specific applications, while the rest are based on principles.