Selecting proper sites for underground dam construction using Multi-Attribute Utility Theory in arid and semi-arid regions

Although the construction of underground dams is one of the best methods to conserve water resources in arid and semi-arid regions,applying efficient methods for the selection of suitable sites for subsurface dam construction remains a challenge.Due to the costly and time-consuming methods of site selection for underground dam construction,this study aimed to present a new method using geographic information systems techniques and decision-making processes.The exclusionary criteria including fault,slope,hypsometry,land use,soil,stream,geology,and chemical properties of groundwater were selected for site selection of dam construction and inappropriate regions were omitted by integration and scoring layers in ArcGIS based on the Boolean logic.Finally,appropriate sites were prioritized using the Multi-Attribute Utility Theory.According to the results of the utility coefficient,seven sites were selected as the region for underground dam construction based on all criteria and experts’opinions.The site of Nazarabad dam was the best location for underground dam construction with a utility coefficient of 0.7137 followed by sites of Akhavan with a utility coefficient of 0.4633 and Mirshamsi with a utility coefficient of 0.4083.This study proposed a new approach for the construction of the subsurface dam at the proper site and help managers and decision-makers achieve sustainable water resources with limited facilities and capital and avoid wasting national capital.

A Multi-Attribute Decision-Making Method Using Belief-Based Probabilistic Linguistic Term Sets and Its Application in Emergency Decision-Making

Probabilistic linguistic term sets(PLTSs)are an effective tool for expressing subjective human cognition that offer advantages in the field ofmulti-attribute decision-making(MADM).However,studies have found that PLTSs have lost their ability to accurately capture the views of decision-makers(DMs)in certain circumstances,such as when the DM hesitates between multiple linguistic terms or the decision information is incomplete,thus affecting their role in the decision-making process.Belief function theory is a leading streamof thought in uncertainty processing that is suitable for dealing with the limitations of PLTS.Therefore,the purpose of this study is to extend PLTS to incorporate belief function theory.First,we provide the basic concepts of the extended PLTS(i.e.,belief-based PLTS)through case analyses.Second,the aggregation operator of belief-based PLTS is defined with the ordered weighted average(OWA)-based soft likelihood function,which is improved by considering the reliability of the information source.Third,to measure the magnitude of different belief-based PLTSs,the belief interval of singleton is calculated,and the comparison method of belief-based PLTS is constructed based on probabilities.On the basis of the preceding discussion,we further develop an emergency decision framework that includes several novel techniques,such as attribute weight determination and decision information aggregation.Finally,the usefulness of the framework is demonstrated through a case study,and its effectiveness is illustrated through a series of comparisons.

Fermatean Hesitant Fuzzy Prioritized Heronian Mean Operator and Its Application in Multi-Attribute Decision Making

In real life,incomplete information,inaccurate data,and the preferences of decision-makers during qualitative judgment would impact the process of decision-making.As a technical instrument that can successfully handle uncertain information,Fermatean fuzzy sets have recently been used to solve the multi-attribute decision-making(MADM)problems.This paper proposes a Fermatean hesitant fuzzy information aggregation method to address the problem of fusion where the membership,non-membership,and priority are considered simultaneously.Combining the Fermatean hesitant fuzzy sets with Heronian Mean operators,this paper proposes the Fermatean hesitant fuzzy Heronian mean(FHFHM)operator and the Fermatean hesitant fuzzyweighted Heronian mean(FHFWHM)operator.Then,considering the priority relationship between attributes is often easier to obtain than the weight of attributes,this paper defines a new Fermatean hesitant fuzzy prioritized Heronian mean operator(FHFPHM),and discusses its elegant properties such as idempotency,boundedness and monotonicity in detail.Later,for problems with unknown weights and the Fermatean hesitant fuzzy information,aMADM approach based on prioritized attributes is proposed,which can effectively depict the correlation between attributes and avoid the influence of subjective factors on the results.Finally,a numerical example of multi-sensor electronic surveillance is applied to verify the feasibility and validity of the method proposed in this paper.

Two-Sided Matching Decision Making with Multi-Attribute Probabilistic Hesitant Fuzzy Sets

In previous research on two-sided matching(TSM)decision,agents’preferences were often given in the form of exact values of ordinal numbers and linguistic phrase term sets.Nowdays,the matching agent cannot perform the exact evaluation in the TSM situations due to the great fuzziness of human thought and the complexity of reality.Probability hesitant fuzzy sets,however,have grown in popularity due to their advantages in communicating complex information.Therefore,this paper develops a TSM decision-making approach with multi-attribute probability hesitant fuzzy sets and unknown attribute weight information.The agent attribute weight vector should be obtained by using the maximum deviation method and Hamming distance.The probabilistic hesitancy fuzzy information matrix of each agent is then arranged to determine the comprehensive evaluation of two matching agent sets.The agent satisfaction degree is calculated using the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution(TOPSIS).Additionally,the multi-object programming technique is used to establish a TSM method with the objective of maximizing the agent satisfaction of two-sided agents,and the matching schemes are then established by solving the built model.The study concludes by providing a real-world supply-demand scenario to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.The proposed method is more flexible than prior research since it expresses evaluation information using probability hesitating fuzzy sets and can be used in scenarios when attribute weight information is unclear.

Multi-attribute decision-making based on subjective and objective integrated eigenvector method

An integrated approach is proposed to investigate the fuzzy multi-attribute decision-making （MADM） problems, where subjective preferences are expressed by a pairwise comparison matrix on the relative weights of attributes and objective information is expressed by a decision matrix. An eigenvector method integrated the subjective fuzzy preference matrix and objective information is proposed. Two linear programming models based on subjective and objective information are introduced to assess the relative importance weights of attributes in an MADM problem. The simple additive weighting method is utilized to aggregate the decision information, and then all the alternatives are ranked. Finally, a numerical example is given to show the feasibility and effectiveness of the method. The result shows that it is easier than other methods of integrating subjective and objective information.

APPROACH FOR FUZZY MULTI-ATTRIBUTE DECISION-MAKING WITH FUZZY COMPLEMENTARY PREFERENCE RELATION ON ALTERNATIVES

In presented fuzzy multi-attribute decision-making （FMADM） problems, the information about attribute weights is interval numbers and the decision maker （DM） has fuzzy complementary preference relation on alternatives. Firstly, the decision-making information based on the subjective preference information in the form of the fuzzy complementary judgment matrix is uniform by using a translation function. Then an objective programming model is established. Attribute weights are obtained by solving the model, thus the fuzzy overall values of alternatives are derived by using the additive weighting method. Secondly, the ranking approach of alternatives is proposed based on the degree of similarity between the fuzzy positive ideal solution of alternatives （FPISA） and the fuzzy overall values. The method can sufficiently utilize the objective information of alternatives and meet the subjective requirements of the DM as much as possible. It is easy to be operated and implemented on a computer. Finally, the proposed method is applied to the project evaluation in the venture investment.

Multi-attribute Decision Making Method Based on the Attribute Difference Degree and Its Application in Rice Breeding

[Objective]The aim was to establish a multi-attribute decision making method and introduce its application in rice breeding.[Method]Based on the defined closeness degree among attributes,the difference degrees among attributes were discussed.Furthermore,the weights of attributes were determined based on the difference degrees among the attributes.[Result]A multi-attribute decision making method based on difference degrees among attributes was established,the feasibility of applying it in rice breeding was also analyzed.[Conclusion]This study enriched the methods to determine attribute weights in multi-attribute decision making and provided the necessary theoretical support for selecting rice varieties scientifically and rationally.

Two-phase TOPSIS of uncertain multi-attribute group decision-making

To solve the uncertain multi-attribute group decision-making of unknown attribute weights,three optimal models are built to decide the corresponding ideal solution weights,standard deviation weights and mean deviation weights.The comprehensive attribute weights are gotten through the product of the above three kinds of weights.And each decision maker＇s weighted decision matrices are also received by using the integrated attribute weights.The closeness degrees are also gotten by use of technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution（TOPSIS） through dealing with the weighted decision matrices.At the same time the group decision matrix and weighted group decision matrix are gotten by using each decision-maker＇s closeness degree to every project.Then the vertical TOPSIS method is used to calculate the closeness degree of each project.So these projects can be ranked according to their values of the closeness degree.The process of the method is also given step by step.Finally,a numerical example demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of the approach.

Multi-attribute decision making method for air target threat evaluation based on intuitionistic fuzzy sets

The function of the air target threat evaluation （TE） is the foundation for weapons allocation and senor resources management within the surface air defense. The multi-attribute evaluation methodology is utilized to address the issue of the TE in which the tactic features of the detected target are treated as evaluation attributes. Meanwhile, the intuitionistic fuzzy set （IFS） is employed to deal with information uncertainty in the TE process. Furthermore, on the basis of the entropy weight and inclusion-comparison probability, a hybrid TE method is developed. In order to accommodate the demands of naturalistic decision making, the proposed method allows air defense commanders to express their intuitive opinions besides incorporating into the threat features of the detected target. An illustrative example is provided to indicate the feasibility and advantage of the proposed method.

Novel combinatorial algorithm for the problems of fuzzy grey multi-attribute group decision making

To study the fuzzy and grey information in the problems of multi-attribute group decision making, the basic concepts of both fuzzy grey numbers and grey interval numbers are given firstly, then a new model of fuzzy grey multi-attribute group decision making based on the theories of fuzzy mathematics and grey system is presented. Furthermore, the grey interval relative degree and deviation degree is defined, and both the optimistic algorithm of the grey interval relational degree and the algorithm of deviation degree minimization for solving this new model are also given. Finally, a decision making example to demonstrate the feasibility and rationality of this new method is given, and the results by using these two algorithms are uniform.

Extension of TOPSIS for fuzzy multi-attribute decision making problem based on experimental analysis

This paper is concerned with a technique for order performance by similarity to ideal solution（TOPSIS） method for fuzzy multi-attribute decision making,in which the information about attribute weights is partly known and the attribute values take form of triangular fuzzy numbers.Considering the fact that the triangular fuzzy TOPSIS results yielded by different distance measures are different from others,a comparative analysis of triangular fuzzy TOPSIS ranking from each distance measure is illustrated with discussion on standard deviation.By applying the most reasonable distance,the deviation degrees between attribute values are measured.A linear programming model based on the maximal deviation of weighted attribute values is established to obtain the attribute weights.Therefore,alternatives are ranked by using TOPSIS method.Finally,a numerical example is given to show the feasibility and effectiveness of the method.

Approach to stochastic multi-attribute decision problems using rough sets theory

Multi-attribute decision problems where the performances of the alternatives are random variables are considered. The suggested approach grades the probabilities of preference of one alternative over another with respect to the same attribute. Based on the graded probabilistic dominance relation, the pairwise comparison information table is defined. The global preferences of the decision maker can be seen as a rough binary relation. The present paper proposes to approximate this preference relation by means of the graded probabilistic dominance relation with respect to the subsets of attributes. At last, the method is illustrated by an example.

Multi-attributed decision making for mining methods based on grey system and interval numbers

In the case of unknown weights, theories of multi-attributed decision making based on interval numbers and grey related analysis were used to optimize mining methods. As the representative of independence for the indicator, the smaller the correlation of indicators is, the greater the weight is. Hence, the weights of interval numbers of indicators were determined by using correlation coefficient. Relative closeness based on positive and negative ideal methods was calculated by introducing distance between interval numbers, which made decision making more rational and comprehensive. A new method of ranking interval numbers based on normal distribution was proposed for the optimization of mining methods, whose basic properties were discussed. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of this method were verified by theories and practice.

Method for uncertain multi-attribute decisionmaking with preference information in the form of interval numbers complementary judgment matrix

The uncertain multi-attribute decision-making problems because of the information about attribute weights being known partly, and the decision maker＇s preference information on alternatives taking the form of interval numbers complementary to the judgment matrix, are investigated. First, the decision-making information, based on the subjective uncertain complementary preference matrix on alternatives is made uniform by using a translation function, and then an objective programming model is established. The attribute weights are obtained by solving the model, thus the overall values of the alternatives are gained by using the additive weighting method. Second, the alternatives are ranked, by using the continuous ordered weighted averaging （C-OWA） operator. A new approach to the uncertain multi-attribute decision-making problems, with uncertain preference information on alternatives is proposed. It is characterized by simple operations and can be easily implemented on a computer. Finally, a practical example is illustrated to show the feasibility and availability of the developed method.

A decision support system for satellite layout integrating multi-objective optimization and multi-attribute decision making

A decision support system, including a multi-objective optimization framework and a multi-attribute decision making approach is proposed for satellite equipment layout. Firstly, given three objectives (to minimize the C.G. offset, the cross moments of inertia and the space debris impact risk), we develop a threedimensional layout optimization model. Unlike most of the previous works just focusing on mass characteristics of the system, a space debris impact risk index is developed. Secondly, we develop an efficient optimization framework for the integration of computer-aided design (CAD) software as well as the optimization algorithm to obtain the Pareto front of the layout optimization problem. Thirdly, after obtaining the candidate solutions, we present a multi-attribute decision making approach, which integrates the smart Pareto filter and the correlation coefficient and standard deviation (CCSD) method to select the best tradeoff solutions on the optimal Pareto fronts. Finally, the framework and the decision making approach are applied to a case study of a satellite platform.

An Improved Method Based on TODIM and TOPSIS for Multi-Attribute Decision-Making with Multi-Valued Neutrosophic Sets

Due to the complexity of decision-making problems and the subjectivity of decision-makers in practical application,it is necessary to adopt different forms of information expression according to the actual situation of specific decision-making problems and choose the best method to solve them.Multi-valued neutrosophic set,as an extension of neutrosophic set,can more effectively and accurately describe incomplete,uncertain or inconsistent information.TODIM and TOPSIS methods are two commonly used multi-attribute decision-making methods,each of which has its advantages and disadvantages.This paper proposes a new method based on TODIM and TOPSIS to solve multi-attribute decision-making problems under multi-valued neutrosophic environment.After introducing the related theory of multi-valued neutrosophic set and the traditional TODIM and TOPSIS methods,the new method based on a combination of TODIM and TOPSIS methods is described.And then,two illustrative examples proved the feasibility and validity of the proposed method.Finally,the result has been compared with some existing methods under the same examples and the proposed method’s superiority has been proved.This paper studies this kind of decision-making problem from algorithm idea,algorithm steps and decision-making influencing factors.

A Method of Job Scheduling on SMEs' Key Equipments Based on Hybrid Multi-attribute Decision Making

An analysis of the key factors affecting on the single production process job scheduling of the parts waiting for be- ing processed on the key equipments for SMEs (Small Manufacturing Enterprises) is given in this paper,which include interval number,real number and uncertain linguistic value.A kind of hybrid multi-attribute decision making method for the single pro- duction process job scheduling is presented in this paper,that the parts are firstly sorted about each factor,and then the total evalu- ative attributive value of each part is calculated with the method of weighted arithmetic average,and thus the part with the highest total evaluative attributive value is chosen for being processed firstly.The mathematic model corresponding to the method is set up in this paper.An example is studied in this paper,and the results of the example testify the correctness of this model.

Pythagorean Uncertain Linguistic Variable Hamy Mean Operator and Its Application to Multi-attribute Group Decision Making

Pythagorean fuzzy set(PFS) can provide more flexibility than intuitionistic fuzzy set(IFS) for handling uncertain information, and PFS has been increasingly used in multi-attribute decision making problems. This paper proposes a new multiattribute group decision making method based on Pythagorean uncertain linguistic variable Hamy mean(PULVHM) operator and VIKOR method. Firstly, we define operation rules and a new aggregation operator of Pythagorean uncertain linguistic variable(PULV) and explore some properties of the operator.Secondly, taking the decision makers' hesitation degree into account, a new score function is defined, and we further develop a new group decision making approach integrated with VIKOR method. Finally, an investment example is demonstrated to elaborate the validity of the proposed method. Sensibility analysis and comprehensive comparisons with another two methods are performed to show the stability and advantage of our method.

Power Aggregation Operators of Simplified Neutrosophic Sets and Their Use in Multi-attribute Group Decision Making

The simplified neutrosophic set(SNS) is a useful generalization of the fuzzy set that is designed for some practical situations in which each element has different truth membership function, indeterminacy membership function and falsity membership function. In this paper, we develop a series of power aggregation operators called simplified neutrosophic number power weighted averaging(SNNPWA) operator, simplified neutrosophic number power weighted geometric(SNNPWG) operator, simplified neutrosophic number power ordered weighted averaging(SNNPOWA) operator and simplified neutrosophic number power ordered weighted geometric(SNNPOWG) operator. We present some useful properties of the operators and discuss the relationships among them. Moreover, an approach to multiattribute group decision making(MAGDM) within the framework of SNSs is developed by the above aggregation operators.Finally, a practical application of the developed approach to deal with the problem of investment is given, and the result shows that our approach is reasonable and effective in dealing with uncertain decision making problems.

Multi-attribute group decision making method under 2-dimension uncertain linguistic variables

A method is proposed to deal with the uncertain multiple attribute group decision making problems,where 2-dimension uncertain linguistic variables(2DULVs)are used as the reliable way for the experts to express their fuzzy subjective evaluation information.Firstly,in order to measure the 2DULVs more accurately,a new method is proposed to compare two 2DULVs,called a score function,while a new function is defined to measure the distance between two 2DULVs.Secondly,two optimization models are established to determine the weight of experts and attributes based on the new distance formula and a weighted average operator is used to determine the comprehensive evaluation value of each alternative.Then,a score function is used to determine the ranking of the alternatives.Finally,the effectiveness of the proposed method is proved by an illustrated example.