An integrated fuzzy approach for the selection of manufacturing technologies

In this paper, an integrated decision support system is developed, which employs fuzzy techniques to assist decision-makers in choosing an optimal solution from alternative manufacturing options in an uncertain environment. The integrated approach incorporates different justification methods (e.g., strategic, economic, and analytic evaluations) for assessing tangible benefits, like cost, and intangible benefits, like quality, of different alternatives by a fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making method. As an illustrative example, selection of different advanced manufacturing technologies has been demonstrated by using the proposed methodology. The proposed concept will greatly reduce conflicts between tangible and intangible factors, and enhance the process of identification, interpretation, and diagnosis of the value of complex manufacturing and engineering systems.