Foreword

It is with great pleasure that we welcome you all to the 2007 IEEE International Conference on Fuzzy Systems, FUZZ-IEEE 2007, at Imperial College, London. We present these proceedings to you as positive proof of FUZZ-IEEE's continued presence as the most prestigious annual international conference for the fruitful interaction and exchange of ideas on the research, development and application of fuzzy systems.

This year, we received 534 papers from 64 different countries, of which 285 papers have been accepted for oral presentation and 65 for poster presentation. A vast majority of submissions were reviewed by three reviewers, with no specific treatment given to papers submitted for special sessions. A small number of papers were reviewed by two referees, but these have been further considered by the relevant area or special session chairs and by the chairs of the conference.

It was remarkable to note that approximately a quarter of all submissions were from student authors, and that 63% of such papers were accepted. Undoubtedly these figures are very encouraging - demonstrating that an enthusiastic new generation of researchers is ready to pursue further advancements in fuzzy systems. Our slogan this year is "Intelligence is fuzzy", but the future potential of research and development in fuzzy systems is not fuzzy!

In addition to the normal paper presentations, we will have 5 tutorials, 4 invited keynote talks (one of which is sponsored by BT), 7 panels and 1 competition workshop. The invited speakers and panelists represent a cross-section of the international community in fuzzy systems at its best. The number of panels and the first ever competition organised in the FUZZ-IEEE series makes this conference a unique event. Apart from the technical programme, the conference will also feature a reception that is to take place in conjunction with the poster presentations, and a cruise banquet that will enable delegates to view many great London landmarks from a refreshing and relaxing perspective.

The organisation of an international conference of this magnitude and significance demands tremendous effort and dedication. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the area and special session chairs. Their support, in various forms, has resulted in a sound technical program. Of course, the reviewers' timely return of their reports was essential for the success of the conference and is greatly appreciated. Despite the extension to the paper submission deadline, notification of acceptance was made as planned. This has given authors time to consider reviewers' comments and revise their work accordingly.

We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to all the members of the organising committee for sharing with us the joy as well as the occasional frustrations. They have shown great enthusiasm and professionalism in preparing the detailed arrangements for this conference. Thanks also go to Tomasz Cholewo for his invaluable help with the online conference review management system, and to Fei Chao, Neil Mac Parthalain, and Sam Tolhurst for providing administrative support.

London is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe with a wealth of cultural and tourist attractions. Imperial College is one of the UK's top universities, situated in the heart of London. We trust that you will have an enjoyable time!

Qiang Shen (General Chair of FUZZ-IEEE 2007)

And on behalf of:
Hani Hagras (Co-General Chair of FUZZ-IEEE 2007)
Robert John (Co-General Chair of FUZZ-IEEE 2007)
Trevor Martin (Program Chair of FUZZ-IEEE 2007)