This paper proposes a hierarchical learning algorithm for optimizing fuzzy rule bases. In this
algorithm, Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy neural network is used for the parametric learning of a fuzzy rule base with
steepest descent method. Then, the structure of fuzzy rule bases is optimized with the binary coding
method, in which a rule corresponds to a gene bit, and a rule base to a chromosome. This hierarchical
learning algorithm can reduce the redundant rules and simplify the fuzzy rule base. A computer simulation
verifies the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.