Towards a Natural Language User Interface: An Approach of Fuzzy Query

Abstract. A fuzzy query approach is presented which is aimed at introducing more natural language expressions into GIS user interfaces. In this approach “vague”natural language expressions are represented as fuzzy formulae and are processed in a systematic manner. This approach enables modification-type, composition-type and quantification-type fuzzy formulae to be used for data retrieval. This approach can be easily implemented, including on most of the existing nonfuzzy systems. The ease of implementation makes this approach attractive for developing new systems and for enhancing existing GIS. In this paper, the concepts underlying the approach and the methods for processing fuzzy formulae are described in detail. A prototype for implementing this approach and a group of sample queries are described.