Variable-precision-dominance-based rough set approach to interval-valued information systems

This paper proposes a general framework for the study of interval-valued information systems by integrating the variable-precision-dominance-based rough set theory with inclusion measure theory. By introducing a a-dominance relation based on inclusion measures between two interval numbers, we propose a variable-precision-dominance-based rough set approach based on the substitution of indiscernibility relation by the a-dominance relation. The knowledge discovery framework is formulated for interval-valued information systems. Furthermore, knowledge reduction of interval-valued decision systems based on the variable-precision-dominance-based rough set model is postulated. Relationships between these reducts and discemibility matrices are also established to substantiate knowledge reduction in the variable-precision-dominance-based rough set model. (C) 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.