A fuzzy Petri net (FPN) is a powerful tool to model and analyze knowledge-based systems containing vague information. This paper systematically reviews recent developments of the FPN model from the following three perspectives: knowledge representation using FPN, reasoning mechanisms using an FPN framework, and the latest industrial applications using FPN. In addition, some specific modeling and reasoning approaches to FPN to solve the 'state-explosion problem' are illustrated. Furthermore, detailed analysis of the discussed aspects are shown to reveal some interesting findings, as well as their developmental history. Finally, we present conclusions and suggestions for future research directions.