Fuzzy Sets and Analytical Hierarchical Process for Manufacturing Process Choice

Abstract

The aim of this chapter is to investigate the decision process of manufacturing systems (MSs) under uncertain conditions. The decision process needs a systematic approach to structure the system requirements and highlight the management preferences while considering vague criteria. In order to establish a suitable empirical approach for the decision process compatible with the current/future requirements, the analytical hierarchical process (AHP) is employed for structuring the criteria influencing the process choice. The application of the proposed AHP model for the selection of manufacturing process is demonstrated using numerical examples. In addition, due to dealing with vague data in the decision process, the uncertain criteria are characterised by typical fuzzy sets. The integrated fuzzy AHP is then analysed within the boundary conditions of the fuzzy criteria using the Expert Choice software. The proposed model is intended to be generic in structure and applicable to many firms.