A multi-objective mathematical model for selecting reliable suppliers for one-shot systems

Abstract

A One-shot device is defined as a one-time unit that cannot be subjected to destructive tests or used more than once. Each component/sub-component used in one-shot systems, regardless of how it is supplied, has a specific risk level. On the other hand, each component affects the factors influencing the total system failure. It is the main objective of the present paper to provide a multi-objective model for determining suppliers of components used in one-shot systems. In this model, the risk associated with each supplier is initially estimated using risk assessment indicators. In the second stage, the risks associated with sub-components are assess using cause-and-effect matrices. Based on the likely catastrophic incidents to the system, the fault tree analysis is used and the relevant diagrams are drawn to identify the best composition of equipment suppliers. The results obtained from a case-study are then used in the especially developed multi-objective model to identify the allocations. The optimum values for the first and second objective functions are calculated to be 1489.349 and 0.809, respectively. Finally, the performance of the model is validated by sensitivity analysis.