Hesitant Fuzzy Information Research Articles

Heterogeneous group decision-making method with continuous probabilistic hesitant fuzzy information for intelligent system reliability assessment

Heterogeneous group decision-making method with continuous probabilistic hesitant fuzzy information for intelligent system reliability assessment

Enhancing group decision-making: Maximum consensus aggregation for fuzzy cross-efficiency under hesitant fuzzy linguistic information

Group decision-making (GDM) is essential as it recognizes the inherent complexity of many decision scenarios, which frequently require the collective wisdom and knowledge of multiple decision-makers (DMs) to be effectively resolved. The proposed method aims to develop fuzzy data envelopment analysis (DEA) cross-efficiency models tailored to address GDM challenges, wherein attribute values are provided by DMs using hesitant fuzzy linguistic term sets (HFLTSs). For this purpose, we initially transform HFLTSs into their corresponding fuzzy envelopes, defined as trapezoidal fuzzy numbers (TrFNs). This conversion strategy effectively minimizes the loss in assessments based on HFLTSs while retaining the inherent ambiguity of the original information. Building upon this foundation, we develop fuzzy cross-efficiency models by leveraging the α-level sets of fuzzy envelopes. These models are designed to handle fuzzy input and output variables under various α-level sets, which are capable of considering all possible attribute values for each alternative. Following this, we implement a maximum consensus model using fuzzy cross-efficiency to assign weights to DMs. These weights facilitate the aggregation of individual fuzzy cross-efficiency intervals obtained from DMs’ assessments into collective ones, which serve to rank alternatives. Finally, we showcase the effectiveness and superiority of our proposal through numerical validation and comparative analysis.

Reliability-driven large group consensus decision-making method with hesitant fuzzy linguistic information for the selection of hydrogen storage technology

The use of hydrogen storage technology (HST) as a bridge for producing and utilizing hydrogen energy in the hydrogen industry chain is significant, and its evaluation has attracted the interest of researchers. Since there are different types of HSTs, selecting the most appropriate one requires the participation of plenty of experts with different professional backgrounds, which makes this be modeled as a large group decision-making problem. This paper develops a reliability-driven large group consensus decision-making (LGCDM) method for HST selection using the hesitant fuzzy linguistic terms set (HFLTS) as the evaluation representation format. Specifically, the expertise level of individuals and the reliability of group opinions are measured based on the set variables, and then the dimensionality of large groups is reduced based on the reliability of subgroup opinions. Furthermore, an opinion reliability rating mechanism is designed and, when consensus is not satisfactory, a feedback recommendation mechanism and consensus optimization mechanism are developed for implementation. Finally, the proposed reliability-driven LGCDM approach is applied to the HST selection for THVOW Company, and the comparison with existent related approaches indicates that it not only is practical and reasonable, but also provides a technical path for relevant departments to make decisions on practical issues.

Dominance-Based Rough Set Model in Hesitant Fuzzy Information Systems

Hesitant fuzzy information systems have been widely applied in decision-making due to their ability to handle uncertain information. In addition, dominance relationships are often taken into account in many practical decision-making problems. Therefore, it is of great significance to conduct research on hesitant fuzzy information systems involved with dominance relations. In this study, we introduce dominance relations in a hesitant fuzzy information system to make it a dominance-based hesitant fuzzy information system, which can provide a solid new idea for comparing hesitant fuzzy elements. Furthermore, a hesitant fuzzy dominance-based rough set model is constructed, and an attribute reduction method is designed to simplify the dominance-based hesitant fuzzy information system. Further, we propose lower and upper approximation discernibility matrices in the dominance-based hesitant fuzzy decision information system to extract decision rules. In addition, two numerical examples are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed attribute reduction methods.

Selection of an Appropriate Global Partner for Companies Using the Innovative Extension of the TOPSIS Method with Intuitionistic Hesitant Fuzzy Rough Information

In this research, we introduce the intuitionistic hesitant fuzzy rough set by integrating the notions of an intuitionistic hesitant fuzzy set and rough set and present some intuitionistic hesitant fuzzy rough set theoretical operations. We compile a list of aggregation operators based on the intuitionistic hesitant fuzzy rough set, including the intuitionistic hesitant fuzzy rough Dombi weighted arithmetic averaging aggregation operator, the intuitionistic hesitant fuzzy rough Dombi ordered weighted arithmetic averaging aggregation operator, and the intuitionistic hesitant fuzzy rough Dombi hybrid weighted arithmetic averaging aggregation operator, and demonstrate several essential characteristics of the aforementioned aggregation operators. Furthermore, we provide a multi attribute decision-making approach and the technique of the suggested approach in the context of the intuitionistic hesitant fuzzy rough set. A real-world problem for selecting a suitable worldwide partner for companies is employed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the suggested approach. The sensitivity analysis of the decision-making results of the suggested aggregation operators are evaluated. The demonstrative analysis reveals that the outlined strategy has applicability and flexibility in aggregating intuitionistic hesitant fuzzy rough information and is feasible and insightful for dealing with multi attribute decision making issues based on the intuitionistic hesitant fuzzy rough set. In addition, we present a comparison study with the TOPSIS approach to illustrate the advantages and authenticity of the novel procedure. Furthermore, the characteristics and analytic comparison of the current technique to those outlined in the literature are addressed.

Cloud model-based multi-stage multi-attribute decision-making method under probabilistic interval-valued hesitant fuzzy environment

Due to the complexity of multi-stage multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) problems, decision-makers (DMs) frequently provide incomplete and hesitant evaluation information. A crucial difficulty in multi-stage MADM problems is how to make a valid decision under uncertain environment. Firstly, we employ probabilistic interval-valued hesitant fuzzy set (PIVHFS) to characterize the hesitancy of DMs, and then build an optimization model to obtain the probability information based on the score function, deviation function of probabilistic interval-valued hesitant fuzzy element (PIVHFE) and information entropy. Secondly, cloud model is introduced to optimize the calculation process and an optimization model is developed to realize the transformation from PIVHFS to cloud model. Thirdly, a method to solve the stage weights is proposed by synthesizing the within-stage and between-stage decision information. Similarly, the attribute weights are obtained by constructing a mathematical model based on the within-attribute and between-attribute decision information. The noted method can utilize decision information to its fullest. Then, the regret theory is applied to a multi-stage MADM problem. Finally, the applicability and effectiveness of the method are illustrated through case analysis and methods comparison.

Covering-Based Intuitionistic Hesitant Fuzzy Rough Set Models and Their Application to Decision-Making Problems

In this paper, we present four categories of covering-based intuitionistic hesitant fuzzy rough set (CIHFRS) models using intuitionistic hesitant fuzzy β-neighborhoods (IHF β-neighborhoods) and intuitionistic hesitant fuzzy complementary β-neighborhoods (IHFC β-neighborhoods. Through theoretical analysis of covering-based IHFRS models, we propose the intuitionistic hesitant fuzzy TOPSIS (IHF-TOPSIS) technique for order of preference by similarity to an ideal solution, addressing multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) challenges concerning the assessment of IHF data. A compelling example aptly showcases the suggested approach. Furthermore, we address MCDM problems regarding the assessment of IHF information based on CIHFRS models. Through comparison and analysis, it is evident that addressing MCDM problems by assessing IHF data using CIHFRS models proves more effective than utilizing intuitionistic fuzzy data with CIFRS models or hesitant fuzzy information with CHFRS models. IHFS emerges as a unique and superior tool for addressing real-world challenges. Additionally, covering-based rough sets (CRSs) have been successfully applied to decision problems due to their robust capability in handling unclear data. In this study, by combining CRSs with IHFS, four classes of CIFRS versions are established using IHF β-neighborhoods and IHFC β-neighborhoods. A corresponding approximation axiomatic system is developed for each. The roughness and precision degrees of CBIHFRS models are specifically talked about. The relationship among these four types of IHFRS versions and existing related versions is presented based on theoretical investigations. A method for MCDM problems through IHF information, namely, IHF-TOPSIS, is introduced to further demonstrate its effectiveness and applicability. By conducting a comparative study, the effectiveness of the suggested approach is evaluated.

Three-way decisions with dual hesitant fuzzy covering-based rough set and their applications in medical diagnosis

As an extension of partition, fuzzy β-covering can provide a more realistic and accurate description of incomplete information. In this paper, we mainly integrate the idea of fuzzy β-covering with dual hesitant fuzzy (DHF) information and construct some novel three-way decision (3WD) models with DHF covering-based rough set. Firstly, we propose the notions of DHF β-covering, DHF β-minimal description and DHF β-maximal description, and then construct three types of DHF neighborhood operators. Meanwhile, we introduce DHF conditional probability by using DHF neighborhood operator. Secondly, in terms of DHF conditional probability, DHF covering-based probabilistic rough set, DHF covering-based decision-theoretic rough set and their 3WD models are established. In light of DHF neighborhood operator, we propose two pairs of optimistic and pessimistic DHF decision evaluation functions and build two 3WD models through them. Lastly, a numerical example is employed to elaborate the application of the above models, which is effective and credible to medicine screening for Alzheimer’s disease.

BTWM-HF: A behavioral three-way multi-attribute decision-making method with hesitant fuzzy information

Three-way decision (TWD) theory offers a novel paradigm for solving hesitant fuzzy multi-attribute decision-making problems. However, many existing TWD approaches follow the principle of minimum risk, thereby overlooking the influence of the psychological factors of decision-makers (DMs) on decision outcomes when faced with losses and gains. To address this challenge, we propose a behavioral three-way multi-attribute decision-making method with hesitant fuzzy information via hesitant fuzzy TODIM. The proposed method encompasses two key features. One is that the relative utility functions based on the dominance degree are constructed, aiming to portray the psychological behaviors of DMs. The other is the development of an objective calculation of weighted conditional probabilities, achieved without relying on a state set and a binary relation. The feasibility of the proposed method is verified by two numerical examples, one on software selection and the other from the UCI database. The results of the multi-aspect comparative analysis demonstrate that the proposed method exhibits good performance in terms of ranking and classification. Moreover, the experimental results indicate the effectiveness and applicability of the presented method.

Transformation and learning of the non-equidimensional hesitant fuzzy information based on an extended generative adversarial network

In the subjective evaluation process, the hesitant fuzzy set (HFS), as a convenient and robust presentation tool, cannot only suitably address the decision makers’ (DMs’) or experts’ hesitant and uncertain issues but also can arise the dimension curse puzzle. Furthermore, the decision-making result is just derived according to the given objective and subjective information, without considering the DM’s subjective evaluation and the environment’s dynamic influence. Unlike the previous studies, this paper tries to address them from the deep learning viewpoint. To this end, we first define the non-equidimensional HFS (NHFS) and then introduce the equidimensional and classification characters into the NHFS to further develop the equidimensional HFS (EHFS) and the EHFS with the optimal classification result. Then, the equidimensional hesitant fuzzy-generative adversarial network (EHF-GAN) model is proposed to transform the hesitant fuzzy information from the non-equidimensional to the equidimensional form. The generalization and the convergence of the new model are proven to show the models’ reasonability. In addition, the double-learning algorithm of the EHF-GAN model is designed, which can fuse the DMs’ dynamic judgments and derive the optimal decision-making results. Lastly, this paper applies the proposed model and algorithm to an illustrative example of the new smart city enterprises and then shows their feasibility and effectiveness.

Dynamic person-position matching decision method based on hesitant fuzzy number information

In view of the fact that people pay more and more attention to the principle of "getting the position according to the person" and "adapting the person to the position" in person-position matching, a dynamic person-position matching decision method based on hesitant fuzzy numbers is proposed. First, the dynamic person-position matching problem with hesitant fuzzy numbers is described. Then, according to hesitant fuzzy evaluation matrices of positions and candidates, expected score matrices of bilateral subjects are calculated. Furthermore, based on the idea of the generalized optimal order method and the dominant correlation and the missing correlation coefficients, satisfaction means of people and positions are calculated. According to satisfaction means, growth satisfactions at each period are obtained, and then the exponential decay formula is used to determine weights of growth satisfactions. Dynamic satisfactions of bilateral subjects are calculated by aggregating initial satisfaction means and growth satisfactions. On this basis, a stable person-position matching model considering dynamic satisfactions is established and then is solved to obtain the optimal stable person-position matching scheme. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method are verified by an example analysis of person-position matching. Main contributions of this paper are as follows: an effective calculation method for the missing correlation coefficient is presented; a novel effective calculation method for dynamic satisfactions is proposed by introducing the correlation parameter to combine the missing correlation coefficient with the dominant correlation coefficient; an effective stable person-position matching model considering dynamic satisfactions is established.

A novel group decision-making method for interval-valued q-rung dual hesitant fuzzy information using extended power average operator and Frank operations

This paper advances the field of multi-attribute group decision making (MAGDM) by proposing a novel framework based on interval-valued q-rung dual hesitant fuzzy sets (IVq-RDHFSs). IVq-RDHFSs, which surpass most existing fuzzy sets, effectively represent complex fuzzy information by describing membership and non-membership degrees through interval value sets. However, prior MAGDM methods based on IVq-RDHFSs have been limited by the functions of operation rules and aggregation operators (AOs). This limitation is addressed through the construction of a new MAGDM framework, leveraging the robust Frank t-norm and t-conorm (FTT) operation and the extended power average (EPA) operator. The proposed framework features the interval-valued q-rung dual hesitant fuzzy Frank weighted extended power average (IVq-RDHFFWEPA) operator to obtain comprehensive evaluation values. The paper also introduces novel techniques for determining the weights of decision-makers and attributes. Practical applications of the proposed method are demonstrated through the assessment of desalination technology selection and rural green eco-tourism projects. Sensitivity and comparison analyses validate the superior functionality, accuracy, and flexibility of this method compared to many state-of-the-art methods. The contributions of this paper are two-fold: it develops efficient measurement techniques for IVq-RDHFSs, such as distance and weight calculation, and it introduces a comprehensive MAGDM method by integrating FTT and EPA under IVq-RDHFSs, which improves the efficiency of solving decision-making problems.

A novel incomplete hesitant fuzzy information supplement and clustering method for large-scale group decision-making.

Clustering is an effective means to reduce the scaling of large-scale group decision-making (LSGDM). However, there are many problems with clustering methods, such as incomplete or ambiguous information usually provided by different decision makers. Traditional clustering methods may not be able to handle these situations effectively, resulting in incomplete decision-making information. Calculating the clustering centers may become very complex and time-consuming. Inappropriate distance weights may also lead to incorrect cluster assignments, and these problems will seriously affect the clustering results. This research provides a novel incomplete hesitant fuzzy information supplement and clustering approach for large-scale group decision-making in order to address the aforementioned difficulties. First, the approach takes into account the trust degradation and the inhibition of relationships of distrust in the process of trust propagation, and then it builds a global and local network of trust. A novel supplemental formula is provided that takes into account the decision-preference maker's as well as the trust-neighbor's information, allowing the decision-neighbor maker's recommendation to be realized. Therefore, an improved distance function can be proposed to calculate the weights by combining the relative standard deviation theory and selecting the selected clustering centers by using the density peaks in order to optimize the selection of clustering centers and reduce the complexity and scaling of the decision. Finally, an example is presented to demonstrate how the proposed method can be applied. The consistency index and comparison experiments are used to evaluate if the suggested approach is effective and reliable.

A multi-attribute group decision making method based on novel distance measures and regret theory under probabilistic dual hesitant fuzzy sets

As a decision information preference which includes membership degree (MD), non-membership degree (NMD), and probability, the probabilistic dual hesitant fuzzy set (PDHFS) is a crucial tool for effectively expressing uncertain information. In the domains of multi-attribute decision making (MADM) and multi-attribute group decision making (MAGDM), distance measures are extremely helpful tools. In this study, a novel PDHFS distance measure is put out, on which a MAGDM method that takes decision-makers’ (DMs’) psychological behavior into account is proposed. First, a novel distance measure is put forward to effectively assess the difference between different PDHFSs by adding consideration of the distances between MDs and between NMDs. Second, a similarity-trust analysis method based on the new distance measure is employed to calculate expert weights for integrating group decisions, and the group satisfaction index and regret theory are extended to a probabilistic dual hesitant fuzzy information environment. A MAGDM method based on the novel distance measure and regret theory is proposed. Finally, the proposed method is applied to the selection of radiation protection strategies in nuclear power plants, and it is also determined through parametric analysis that DMs’ tendency to avoid regret has an impact on the outcomes of decisions. When the method proposed in this study is compared to existing approaches, the findings demonstrate that the method’s performance in resolving MAGDM issues in a PDHFS environment is superior.

Some Information Measures for Interval‐Valued Hesitant Fuzzy Sets in Multiple Criteria Decision‐Making

In the fields of information science and artificial intelligence, dealing with uncertainty, fuzziness, and complexity has always been a hot and difficult research topic. Especially in modern society, with the continuous development of science and technology, people are facing more and more complex problems. Interval‐valued hesitant fuzzy set (IVHFS) is an extended form of a fuzzy set. It can more flexibly express and handle uncertainty and fuzziness in decision‐making processes. However, in the practical application of the IVHFS, its information measurement is crucial, which is directly related to the application value of the IVHFS in various fields. Therefore, studying the information measurement of the IVHFS has important theoretical significance and practical value for the fields of information science and artificial intelligence. In spite of significant advances, entropy and similarity as the well‐known information measures for interval‐valued hesitant fuzzy information have not yet been thoroughly researched. In this contribution, we investigate information measures in the IVHFS, including nonprobabilistic entropy, similarity, and cross‐entropy. We first analyze the change law of hesitating uncertainty and fuzzy uncertainty in geometric space, and a nonprobabilistic entropy measurement method and its axiomatic definition for IVHFS are further developed. Then, a novel similarity measurement formula for IVHFS and its axiomatic requirements are proposed on the basis of the two nonfuzzy elements ( and ). Furthermore, the novel similarity measure is used to construct the cross‐entropy measure for IVHFS and its axiomatic requirements based on the association between the similarity and the cross‐entropy. Lastly, a MAGDM method is proposed by using the developed three information measures, and the efficacy of the proposed method is demonstrated by a numerical example of emergency communication support capacity evaluation. Comparative analysis and computational cost analysis are implemented to demonstrate the superiority and validity of the proposed information measures.

Managing manipulation behavior in hydrogen refueling station planning by a large group decision making method with hesitant fuzzy linguistic information

Managing manipulation behavior in hydrogen refueling station planning by a large group decision making method with hesitant fuzzy linguistic information

A novel MCGDM technique based on correlation coefficients under probabilistic hesitant fuzzy environment and its application in clinical comprehensive evaluation of orphan drugs.

Probabilistic hesitant fuzzy sets (PHFSs) are superior to hesitant fuzzy sets (HFSs) in avoiding the problem of preference information loss among decision makers (DMs). Owing to this benefit, PHFSs have been extensively investigated. In probabilistic hesitant fuzzy environments, the correlation coefficients have become a focal point of research. As research progresses, we discovered that there are still a few unresolved issues concerning the correlation coefficients of PHFSs. To overcome the limitations of existing correlation coefficients for PHFSs, we propose new correlation coefficients in this study. In addition, we present a multi-criteria group decision-making (MCGDM) method under unknown weights based on the newly proposed correlation coefficients. In addition, considering the limitations of DMs' propensity to use language variables for expression in the evaluation process, we propose a method for transforming the evaluation information of the DMs' linguistic variables into probabilistic hesitant fuzzy information in the newly proposed MCGDM method. To demonstrate the applicability of the proposed correlation coefficients and MCGDM method, we applied them to a comprehensive clinical evaluation of orphan drugs. Finally, the reliability, feasibility and efficacy of the newly proposed correlation coefficients and MCGDM method were validated.

The large-scale group consensus multi-attribute decision-making method based on probabilistic dual hesitant fuzzy sets.

We proposed a novel decision-making method, the large-scale group consensus multi-attribute decision-making method based on probabilistic dual hesitant fuzzy sets, to address the challenge of large-scale group multi-attribute decision-making in fuzzy environments. This method concurrently accounted for the membership and non-membership degrees of decision-making experts in fuzzy environments and the corresponding probabilistic value to quantify expert decision information. Furthermore, it applied to complex scenarios involving groups of 20 or more decision-making experts. We delineated five major steps of the method, elaborating on the specific models and algorithms used in each phase. We began by constructing a probabilistic dual hesitant fuzzy information evaluation matrix and determining attribute weights. The following steps involved classifying large-scale decision-making expert groups and selecting the optimal classification scheme based on effectiveness assessment criteria. A global consensus degree threshold was established, followed by implementing a consensus-reaching model to synchronize opinions within the same class of expert groups. Decision information was integrated within and between classes using an information integration model, leading to a comprehensive decision matrix. Decision outcomes for the objects were then determined through a ranking method. The method's effectiveness and superiority were validated through a case study on urban emergency capability assessment, and its advantages were further emphasized in comparative analyses with other methods.

Three-way group decisions using evidence theory under hesitant fuzzy linguistic environment

In the actual decision-making process, there will be situations where decision-makers with hesitant attitudes have difficulties in evaluating alternatives numerically, and hesitant fuzzy linguistic term sets can provide decision-makers with an effective way to describe hesitancy in linguistic terms. In multi-attribute group decision-making, each decision maker typically holds different preferences. If the variation in decision makers’ assessment weights across evaluations of each attribute for every alternative is not adequately accounted for, it can result in a problem of coarse-grained calculations, leading to information loss. Additionally, the three-way decision model faces significant challenges in information fusion within the context of the hesitant fuzzy linguistic environment. Therefore, we propose a new three-way decision-making model under the hesitant fuzzy linguistic environment. The model obtains the confidence of different decision makers in attribute evaluations through the fusion of D-S evidence theory, and can perform more fine-grained fusion calculations on the evaluation information of different decision makers. In addition, the model considers the cost function of each alternative in different decision-making actions under hesitant fuzzy linguistic environment, calculates the two thresholds of each alternative in the three-way decision model, and derives the decision rules. The effectiveness of the model is verified through a numerical example and two comparative experiments, therefore, the model can be applied in intelligent classification or recommendation systems of hesitant fuzzy linguistic information systems.

Hybrid business offerings in small internationalisers: a mixed-method analysis of internal capabilities through hesitant fuzzy information

PurposeIn this research, the initial list of internal capabilities in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) leading to success in international markets has been extracted. Then, the most relevant capabilities to international SMEs under servitisation and hybrid offerings have been screened. Next, the selected capabilities have been classified, and ultimately the relationship amongst the capabilities has been analysed. The conceptual model for SMEs participating in international markets with hybrid offerings has been illustrated.Design/methodology/approachA literature review has been employed to extract the initial list of internal capabilities to address the research objectives. Then, a novel hesitant fuzzy Delphi (HFD) method has been developed to select the most relevant capabilities for SMEs for hybrid offerings in international markets by using the experts opinions. Subsequently, a novel hesitant fuzzy interpretive structural modelling (HFISM) has been developed to classify the capabilities, design a level-based conceptual model and present the relationship amongst the prominent capabilities.FindingsAfter the literature review, sixteen internal capabilities leading to success in the international market via hybrid offerings have been extracted. Then, eight selected capabilities were chosen for further investigation by applying 15 expert opinions and via the HFD approach. According to HFISM results, a level-based conceptual model was emanated, and “ability to take advantage of international opportunities”, “financial strength”, “technology level” and “efficient innovation management” were considered as the most fundamental capabilities resulting in successful hybrid offerings in international markets.Originality/valueAlongside the multi-layer decision-making approach developed in this manuscript to analyse the internal capabilities roles in hybrid offering success towards international markets, to the best knowledge of the authors, the hesitant fuzzy approaches developed in this article have not been previously presented by any other scholar. A novel HFD approach has been designed for consensus amongst the experts under uncertain circumstances. Furthermore, a novel HFISM has been suggested and employed in this research to comprehend the relationship amongst the internal capabilities.