Application of fuzzy logicin selection of remanufacturing technology

Abstract

Fuzzy approach is frequently used for selection of manufacturing technology. However, the application of the fuzzy tool for choosing the appropriate remanufacturing technology is seldom applied. This study applies the fuzzy logic approach for the selection of technology in order to minimize vagueness in decision making, thereby making results more similar to experts’ thinking. Through elicitation of experts’ inputs, six cleaning technologies were evaluated and ranked appropriately, using criteria of technology cost, operating cost, and disposal effect. Moreover, the technology selection was computed through experts’ opinion using the fuzzy logic inference system. The results show that when technical function of the technology is at the low level of 20%, the technology quality is as low as 15%, and the technology flexibility is rated as low at 25%; then the technical adequacy of the assessed technology will be as low as 10%. The fuzzy approach shows that technology performance is largely impacted by criteria far beyond the technology itself, including purchasing cost, disposal cost, operating cost, and other support functions to compliment experience of experts. Despite the fact that decision makers are appropriately selecting technology, the application of the fuzzy logic tool helps to accommodate vagueness, ambiguity, and subjective views of experts. Notwithstanding the robustness of the approach, application of software to help selection of technology is more reliable and accurate, reduce time of decision, and can be accessed worldwide.