Materials handling equipment selection using integrated fuzzy AHP and VIKOR methods

Abstract

By combining the methods for determining the relative weights of the criteria and standard methods of ranking of alternatives, one makes optimal decisions about a certain issue, regardless of the nature of the parameters that describe it. Selection of materials handling equipment for typical conditions and working environment is one of the problems of multi-criteria analysis, i.e. the selection procedure is not sufficiently structured, dependent on broad areas of knowledge, and requires the application of efficient and effective tool for decision making. The proposed methodology of equipment selection is a combination of positive experiences in the application of known methods of decision-making and their modifications (Fuzzy AHP and VIKOR). In this case, process of the forming of system alternatives and defining criteria are illustrated in a numerical example of the equipment (device) selection within the transport and handling mechanization (trucks - forklift).