Perception of vector and triangle representations of fuzzy number most possible value changes

Abstract

The aim of the study is to investigate and evaluate user preferences regarding two visual representations of uncertainty estimates for decision-making purposes. The research is concerned with the perception of fuzzy numbers, which are depicted either as triangles or as specifically constructed vectors. The study involves a series of pairwise comparisons in which participants must determine which representation reflects the change in the most possible value in a more salient way. The results are then analyzed and formally verified statistically. The study shows that there are specific circumstances where vector representations are more desirable than their triangle-based counterparts. The findings also suggest that there may be some differences in assessing these representations depending on gender. This examination expands our understanding of how subjects perceive different graphical methods for presenting change in a selected parameter uncertainty feature. From a practical standpoint, the findings offer suggestions for designing graphical user interfaces that present fuzzy data to users.