On the dempster-shafer framework and new combination rules

We discuss the basic concepts of the Dempster-Shafer approach, basic probability assignments, belief functions, and probability functions. We discuss how to represent various types of knowledge in this framework. We discuss measures of entropy and specificity for belief structures. We discuss the combination and extension of belief structures. We introduce some concerns associated with the Dempster rule of combination inherent in the normalization due to conflict. We introduce two alternative techniques for combining belief structures. The first uses Dempster's rule, while the second is based upon a modification of this rule. We discuss the issue of credibility of a witness.