A Fuzzy Logic Approach to Reliability in Archaeological Virtual Reconstruction

In this paper, a new approach to a numeric definition of reliability for archaeological reconstruction models is proposed, based on fuzzy logic. This approach allows to introduce for this important concept a numerical value based on verifiable elements, making a scientific evaluations of such reconstructions possible. After characterizing the process of building a reconstruction model from archaeological data and discussing the principal features of this reliability definition, the paper examines in detail the evaluation of reliability in a simple example. Suggestions for further research, including hints for a graphical representation of reliability in computer models and desirable options in user interface, conclude the paper.