Application of MCDM-Based TOPSIS Method for the Optimization of Multi Quality Characteristics of Modern Manufacturing Processes

Abstract

Optimization of non-conventional machining (NCM) processes viz. AJM, AWJM, EDM, WEDM, ECM, ECMM, LBM, PAC, etc. has always been an open research area for researchers. In recent manufacturing environment, almost all the NCM processes consist of a number of input and output to be considered together. The purpose of the present article is to highlight the application of a multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) based method called Technique of Order Preference by Similarity of Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) in optimization of some modern manufacturing processes (MMPs). In the present paper, seven different MMPs namely Electro Chemical Honing (ECH), Abrasive Water Jet Machining (AWJM), Abrasive Jet Machining (AJM), Laser Beam Machining (LBM), Plasma Arc Cutting (PAC), Laser Cutting (LC) and Electric Discharge Machining (EDM) were exemplified. The multiple outcomes of all the illustrated MMPs have been optimized simultaneously by using TOPSIS method. It is a simple, systematic, and logical technique which can be employed to obtain the best parametric combination of cutting parameters. It was observed that the results attained by using TOPSIS method were almost tie with those derived by past researchers. This proves the applicability and adaptability of the TOPSIS method while solving different MCDM-based problems in a real manufacturing system.