2003'3, p.15
Shekhter M. S.
A classification of identification models and an analysis of prototype models (for visual objects)
(RESUME)

The author suggests a classification of identification models on two foundations: 1) whole or not whole, 2) hard or soft. "Whole" models are not divided into component parts acting in identification processes as indivisible atom-like entities. Unlike hard models, the softones, to be positively identified, do not require identity of the model and the object being perceived, but a certain degree of their likeness. Soft models can be instrumental in identifying not only vague, but strict categories: the prototype model can be used to attribute an object to a category, other soft models, if they are whole, can be used to make a hypothesis. The latter was established experimentally when deformed geometrical figures were presented for identification. The author also analyzes one type of the soft model - the prototype, discusses its nature and its advantages before other types of models.