Selection of robot for automated foundry operations using fuzzy multi-criteria decision making approaches

Abstract

This paper employs three Fuzzy Multi-Criteria Decision Making (FMCDM) methodologies in the evaluation and selection of robots for automated foundry operations. In the methodologies, a Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP) is integrated individually with a Fuzzy Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to the Ideal Solution (FTOPSIS), a Fuzzy VIsekriterijumska optimizacija i KOmpromisno Resenje (FVIKOR) and a Complex PRoportional ASsessment method with the application of Grey systems theory (COPRAS-G). In each case, a FAHP is used to estimate the fuzzy weights of the selection criteria under consideration. FTOPSIS, FVIKOR and COPRAS-G are applied to evaluate as well as to select the robots. A real life problem of robots selection in foundry operation is cited to demonstrate and validate the applicability and potentiality of the employed methodologies. A comparative analysis of the results obtained by the methodologies is carried out. The study finds that the employed methodologies are useful, effective and sound surrogates for selecting the best robot in an FMCDM environment.