Fuzzy multi-criteria decision making method for machine selection

Abstract

The selection of appropriate machines is one of the most crucial decisions for a manufacturing company to develop an efficient production environment. The aim of this study is to propose a fuzzy approach for selecting the best machine. This paper is based on a fuzzy extension of the TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) method. In this method, the ratings of various alternatives versus various subjective criteria and the weights of all criteria are assessed in linguistic variables represented by fuzzy numbers. Fuzzy numbers try to resolve the ambiguity of concepts that are associated with human being's judgments. To determine the order of the alternatives, closeness coefficient is defined by calculating the distances to the fuzzy positive ideal solution (FPIS) and fuzzy negative ideal solution (FNIS). By using fuzzy TOPSIS, uncertainty and vagueness from subjective perception and the experiences of decision maker can be effectively represented and reached to a more effective decision. © 2007 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.