A Multiple Reference Point Parallel Approach in MCDM

Abstract

This paper presents a multiple reference point approach that enables oriented strategic search for non-dominated solutions of a multiobjective linear program.

Conceptually it is based on the quasi-satisfying rational framework for decision developed by Lewandovski and Wierzbicki. An approach using several reference points that can change dynamically is being developed. This approach supports the DM learning about the non-dominated region to help him in the process of becoming aware of his objectives and of their attainability. Broadly speaking there is a well-defined non-dominated sub-region associated with the first tentative DM aspiration levels. The characterization of this sub-region enables the DM to choose one or more searching directions leading to other non-dominated sub-regions that are associated with other aspiration levels. This process may be continued by helping the DM to learn about the non-dominated region. Parallel processing techniques are used to keep in control all the aspiration levels (and their reference points).

The parallel processing environment is a microcomputer equipped with a four transputer plug. The parallelism in transputer architecture systems is based on the sequential communicating process model. Each transputer can be seen as the physical implementation of a process. A short resume about the parallel environment and the results of several tests (carried out with a prototype), will be presented.