Bi-Objective Optimization Problems-A Game Theory Perspective to Improve Process and Product

Cost-effective manufacturing processes or products are no longer the only requirements for business sustainability. An approach based on Game Theory is suggested to find solutions for bi-objective problems. In particular, Stackelberg's technique is employed and complemented with the Factors Scaling tool to help the users in defining its strategy for optimizing process and product quality characteristics. No subjective information (shape factors, weights, and/or any other preference information) is required from the users, and basic computational background is enough for implementing it. Two case studies provide evidence that the suggested easy-to-use approach can yield nondominated solutions from a small number of Leader-Follower cycles, what reinforces its usefulness for bi-objective optimization problems.

Automated summary

This paper proposes an approach based on Game Theory and the Factors Scaling tool to help users optimize process and product quality characteristics without requiring subjective information. Two case studies provide evidence of the effectiveness of the approach for bi-objective optimization problems.