Attributes and multi-criteria decision analysis in machine selection for process chains

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT:The purpose of this project is to find a means to evaluate a number of machinesto optimise a process chain. Firstly seven machine types were identified to beincluded in the study. These machine types include: broach machines, EDMmachines, GNG lathes, engine lathes, drilling machines, milling machines andgrinders.The information requirements for these machines in terms of attributes for threeareas were identified. Functionality, economical and reliability and availabilityattributes were identified. These attributes were subsequently incorporated into aMS-Access database to provide a database of machine information.Several methods for comparing machines were studied and the decision then fellon one existing method to be used for machine evaluation. A new method wasdeveloped to use for evaluating machines. The existing method is the AnalyticHierarchy Process, whereas the new method developed, is called the QuotientExponential Method.These methods were implemented in the MS-Access database to enable theuser to evaluate machines by means of both methods.The results indicate that these methods provide the correct answers according totest values used. It should be noted that the decision methods should, however,only serve as an aid towards an answer and do not necessarily provide the finalanswer. The AHP process is very time-consuming for this project because of thelarge number of criteria evaluated.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University