Objective-based multiple attribute decision-making method for plastic manufacturing process selection

Abstract

Selection of appropriate manufacturing process for processing plastics is the biggest challenge during the preliminary design stage. As the selection decisions are complex, there is a need for simple, systematic, and logical methods or mathematical tools to guide decision makers in considering a number of selection attributes and their interrelations in making right decisions. In this paper, we have explored an objective-based multiple attribute decision-making (MADM) method for the selection of plastic manufacturing process. The method uses fuzzy logic to convert qualitative attributes into the quantitative attributes. The procedure has been adapted to rank different process, to quantitatively assist a designer to select a suitable process from a long list for a specific application. A case study of process selection for a plastic moulded automotive fuel tank is used to explain the intricacies involved. The selection is also compared with other graphical methods of decision-making.