An inclusion comparison approach for multiple criteria decision analysis based on interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets

Abstract

The theory of interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets provides an intuitive and feasible way of addressing uncertain and ambiguous properties. Many useful models and methods have been developed for multiple criteria decision analysis within the interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy environment. In contrast to the elaborate existing methods, this paper establishes a simple and effective method for managing the sophisticated data expressed by interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets. An inclusion comparison possibility defined on interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets is proposed, and some important properties are investigated. Then, an inclusion-based index that considers positive and negative ideals is offered. Considering the maximal comprehensive inclusion-based indices, this paper constructs a linear programming model (for consistent information) and an integrated, nonlinear programming model (for inconsistent information) to estimate the criterion weights and the optimal ranking order of the alternatives under an incomplete preference structure. The feasibility of the proposed method is illustrated by a practical example of selecting a suitable bridge construction method, and a comparative analysis with other relevant methods is conducted to validate the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed methodology.

Keywords:

• interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy set
• multiple criteria decision analysis
• inclusion comparison possibility
• inclusion-based index
• incomplete preference structure

JEL Classification:

• C44
• D81
• R42

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ting-Yu Chen

Ting-Yu CHEN. She is currently a Professor of the Department of Industrial and Business Management and the Graduate Institute of Business and Management at Chang Gung University in Taiwan. She received her BS degree in Transportation Engineering and Management, MS degree in Civil Engineering, and PhD degree in Traffic and Transportation from National Chiao Tung University in Taiwan. She has published over 130 papers in peer-reviewed journals and 110 papers in conference proceedings. She has received a number of awards and grants. She is an Honorary Member of the Phi Tau Phi Scholastic Honor Society of Taiwan. Her current research interests include multiple criteria decision analysis, fuzzy decision-making methods and applications.