Consequences of dropping nonessential objectives for the application of MCDM methods

In this article we consider the problem of nonessential objectives for multiobjective optimization problems (MOP) with linear objective functions. In 1977 an approach based on the reduction of size of the matrix of objective functions has been worked out by one of the present authors (Gal, T., Leberling, H., 1977. European Journal of Operations Research 1, 176–184). Although this method for dropping nonessential objectives leads to a mathematically equivalent MOP, problems concerning the application of MOP methods may arise. For instance, dropping some (or all) of the nonessential objectives the question is, how to ensure obtaining the same solution as with all objectives involved. We consider the problem of adapting the parameters of multiobjective optimization methods. For the case of weighting methods a simple procedure for adapting the weights is analyzed. For other methods, e.g. reference point approaches, such a simple possibility for adapting the parameters is not given.     

A characterization of weakly efficient points

In this paper, we study a characterization of weakly efficient solutions of Multiobjective Optimization Problems (MOPs). We find that, under some quasiconvex conditions of the objective functions in a convex set of constraints, weakly efficient solutions of an MOP can be characterized as an optimal solution to a scalar constraint problem, in which one of the objectives is optimized and the remaining objectives are set up as constraints. This characterization is much less restrictive than those found in the literature up to now.Corresponding author.     

Network reoptimization procedures for multiobjective network probelems

Network models are attractive because of their computational efficiency. Network applications can involve multiple objective analysis. Multiple objective analysis requires generating nondominated solutions in various forms. Two general methods exist to generate new solutions in continuous optimization: changing objective function weights and inserting objective bounds through constraints. In network flow problems, modifying weights is straightforward, allowing use of efficient network codes. Use of bounds on objective attainment levels can provide a more controlled generation of solutions reflecting tradeoffs among objectives. To constrain objective attainment, however, would require a side constrained network code, sacrificing some computational efficiency for greater model flexibility. We develop reoptimization procedures for the side constrained problem and use them in conjunction with simplex-based techniques. Our approach provides a useful tool for generating solutions allowing greater decision maker control over objective attainments, allowing multiobjective analysis of large-scale problems. Results are compared with solutions obtained from the computationally more attractive weighting technique. Reoptimization procedures are discussed as a means of more efficiently conducting multiple objective network analyses.     

Multiple objective forest land management planning: An illustration

Multiple Objective Programming (MOP) has undergone a rapid period of development during the last decade. Concurrently, increased land-use pressures have stimulated forest land management analysts to develop and utilize more sophisticated planning aids to address complex multi-resource issues involving multiple objectives and decision makers.To illustrate the potential use of MOP in land management planning, a demonstrative example is examined using an interactive technique—the Stem method. This method was chosen because of its promise as a rational, practical and systematic means of exploring feasible alternative solutions to multiple objective forest land management problems.     

Robust optimization for interactive multiobjective programming with imprecise information applied to R&D project portfolio selection

A multiobjective binary integer programming model for R&D project portfolio selection with competing objectives is developed when problem coefficients in both objective functions and constraints are uncertain. Robust optimization is used in dealing with uncertainty while an interactive procedure is used in making tradeoffs among the multiple objectives. Robust nondominated solutions are generated by solving the linearized counterpart of the robust augmented weighted Tchebycheff programs. A decision maker’s most preferred solution is identified in the interactive robust weighted Tchebycheff procedure by progressively eliciting and incorporating the decision maker’s preference information into the solution process. An example is presented to illustrate the solution approach and performance. The developed approach can also be applied to general multiobjective mixed integer programming problems.     

Proper equality constraints and maximization of index vectors

In solving many practical problems, we have to deal with conflictive multiple objectives (in performance, cost, gain, or payoff, etc). Can all such objectives be achieved simultaneously? The general answer is negative. That is, most multiple-objective problems do not have supreme solutions that can satisfy all of the objectives. Many broader definitions of optimality like Pareto optimum, efficient point, noninferior point, etc, have been introduced in various contexts, so that most multiple-objective problems can have optimal solutions. But such optimal solutions do not in general yield unique vectors of optimal indexes of the conflictive multiple objectives. In most cases, we have to make appropriate tradeoffs, compromises, or choices, among those optimal solutions. To obtain the set of all such optimal solutions (in particular, the set of all optimal index vectors), say for a comprehensive study on appropriate tradeoffs, compromises, or choices, a usual practice is to optimize linear combinations of the multiple-objective functions for various weights. The success of such approach relies heavily on a certain directional convexity condition; in other words, if such convexity is absent, this method will fail to obtain essential subsets. The method of proper equality constraints (PEC), however, relies on no convexity condition at all, and through it we can obtain the entire set. In this paper, we attempt to lay the foundation for the method of PEC. We are mainly concerned with obtaining the set of all maximal index vectors, for most of the broader-sense optimal solutions are actually expressed in terms of maximal index vectors (Ref. 1). First, we introduce the notion of quasisupremal vector as a substantially equivalent substitute for, but a rather practical and useful extension of, the notion of maximal vector. Then, we propose and develop the method of PEC for computing the set of all quasisupremal (or maximal) index vectors. An illustrative example in the allocation of funds is given. One of the important conclusions is that optimizing the index of one objective with the indexes of all other objectives equated to some arbitrary constants may still result in inferior solutions. The sensitivity to variations in these constants are examined, and various tests for quasisupremality (maximality, or optimality) are derived in this paper.     

A hybrid inexact-stochastic water management model

An inexact-stochastic water management (ISWM) model is proposed and applied to a case study of water quality management within an agricultural system. The model is based on an inexact chance-constrained programming (ICCP) method, which improves upon the existing inexact and stochastic programming approaches by allowing both distribution information in B and uncertainties in A and C to be effectively incorporated within its optimization process. In its solution process, the ICCP model (under a given pi level) is first transformed into two deterministic submodels, which correspond to the upper and lower bounds for the desired objective function value. This transformation process is based on an interactive algorithm, which is different from normal interval analysis or best/worst case analysis. Interval solutions, which are feasible and stable in the given decision space, can then be obtained by solving the two submodels sequentially. Thus, decision alternatives can be generated by adjusting decision variable values within their solution intervals. The obtained ICCP solutions are also useful for decision makers to obtain insight regarding tradeoffs between environmental and economic objectives and between increased certainties and decreased safeties (or increased risks). Results of the case study indicate that useful solutions for the planning of agricultural activities in the water quality management system have been obtained. A number of decision alternatives have been generated and analyzed based on projected applicable conditions. Generally, some alternatives can be considered when water quality objective is given priority, while the others may provide compromises between environmental and economic considerations. The above alternatives represent various options between environmental and economic tradeoffs. Willingness to accept low agricultural income will guarantee meeting the water quality objectives. A strong desire to acquire high agricultural income will run into the risk of violating water quality constraints.     

Tradeoff-based decomposition and decision-making in multiobjective programming

To facilitate the evaluation of tradeoffs and the articulation of preferences in multiple criteria decision-making, a multiobjective decomposition scheme is proposed that restructures the original problem as a collection of smaller-sized subproblems with only subsets of the original criteria. A priori preferences on objective tradeoffs are integrated into this process by modifying the ordinary Pareto order by more general domination cones, and decision makers are supported by an interactive decision-making procedure to coordinate any remaining tradeoffs using concepts of approximate efficiency. A theoretical foundation for this method is provided, and an illustrative application to multiobjective portfolio optimization is described in detail.     

多目标规划求解中修正权系数的方法

我们利用 p级数方法求解多目标规划问题 MOP,并用分层法的思想确定权系数 .求解多目标规划问题 MOP就相当于求解分层的多目标规划问题 L SP.这样 ,我们就可以确定这个函数的目标函数解 ,如果这个解不是满足决策者要求的 Pareto有效解 ,就改变原 MOP问题的权系数。我们就用这个迭代的方法求解多目标规划问题 MOP。     

Mathematical modelling of hydraulic transients in complex systems

It is a very well-known fact that calculations necessary to analyze transient conditions in hydraulic systems are very time-consuming and difficult to organize, especially in complex systems. Nevertheless, such calculations are necessary to achieve efficiency and economy in the design and operation, as well as safety in these systems, since those objectives need precise calculations of pressures and flowrates. Suitable mathematical modeling of the different elements in a hydraulic system is necessary to get useful results, which help fulfill those objectives. In this paper, the mathematical model described in [1] is generalized to complex pressurized hydraulic systems. To model the behavior of the fluid within the ducts, use is made of the so-called elastic model, which is numerically solved by the methods of characteristics. Nevertheless, the main objective of this paper hinges on the treatment of the boundary conditions that allow developing a general model virtually representing every combination of elements at a given location of the system. The final objective is to provide the users with a powerful tool to devise the potential risks to which an installation may be exposed and to develop suitable protection strategies.     

Relative importance of criteria in multiobjective programming: A cone-based approach

This article develops a convex polyhedral cone-based preference modeling framework for decision making with multiple criteria which extends the classical notion of Pareto optimality and accounts for relative importance of the criteria. The decision maker’s perception of the relative importance is quantified by an allowable tradeoffs between two objectives representing the maximum allowable amount of decay of a less important objective per one unit of improvement of a more important objective. Two cone-based models of relative importance are developed. In the first model, one criterion is designated as less important while all the others are more important. In the second model, more than one criterion may be classified as less important while all the others are considered more important. Complete algebraic characterization of the models is derived and the relationship between them and the classical Pareto preference is examined. Their relevance to decision making is discussed.     

Augmented Lagrangian and Tchebycheff Approaches in Multiple Objective Programming

Relationships between the Tchebycheff scalarization and the augmented Lagrange multiplier technique are examined in the framework of general multiple objective programs (MOPs). It is shown that under certain conditions the Tchebycheff method can be represented as a quadratic weighted-sums scalarization of the MOP, that is, given weight values in the former, the coefficients of the latter can be found so that the same efficient point is selected. Analysis for concave and linear MOPs is included. Resulting applications in multiple criteria decision making are also discussed.     

A dual-interval vertex analysis method and its application to environmental decision making under uncertainty

In this study, a dual-interval vertex analysis (DIVA) method is developed, through incorporating the vertex method within an interval-parameter programming framework. The developed DIVA method can tackle uncertainties presented as dual intervals that exist in the objective function and the left- and right-hand sides of the modeling constraints. An interactive algorithm and a vertex analysis approach are proposed for solving the DIVA model. Solutions under an associated α-cut level can be generated by solving a series of deterministic submodels. They can help quantify relationships between the objective function value and the membership grade, which is meaningful for supporting in-depth analyses of tradeoffs between environmental and economic objectives as well as those between system optimality and reliability. A management problem in terms of regional air pollution control is studied to illustrate applicability of the proposed approach. The results indicate that useful solutions for planning the air quality management practices have been generated. They can help decision makers to identify desired pollution-abatement strategies with minimized costs and maximized environmental efficiencies.     

Multiobjective optimization problems with modified objective functions and cone constraints and applications

In this paper, we consider a differentiable multiobjective optimization problem with generalized cone constraints (for short, MOP). We investigate the relationship between weakly efficient solutions for (MOP) and for the multiobjective optimization problem with the modified objective function and cone constraints [for short, (MOP) _η (x)] and saddle points for the Lagrange function of (MOP) _η (x) involving cone invex functions under some suitable assumptions. We also prove the existence of weakly efficient solutions for (MOP) and saddle points for Lagrange function of (MOP) _η (x) by using the Karush-Kuhn-Tucker type optimality conditions under generalized convexity functions. As an application, we investigate a multiobjective fractional programming problem by using the modified objective function method.     

Characterizing strict efficiency for convex multiobjective programming problems

The article pertains to characterize strict local efficient solution (s.l.e.s.) of higher order for the multiobjective programming problem (MOP) with inequality constraints. To create the necessary framework, we partition the index set of objectives of MOP to give rise to subproblems. The s.l.e.s. of order m for MOP is related to the local efficient solution of a subproblem. This relationship inspires us to adopt the D.C. optimization approach, the convex subdifferential sum rule, and the notion of ε-subdifferential to derive the necessary and sufficient optimality conditions for s.l.e.s. of order m \geqq 1{m \geqq 1} for the convex MOP. Further, the saddle point criteria of higher order are also presented.     

Efficient frontier cutoff policies in credit portfolios

Historically, account acquisition in scored retail credit and loan portfolios has focused on risk management in the sense of minimizing default losses. We believe that acquisition policies should focus on a broader set of business measures that explicitly recognize tradeoffs between conflicting objectives of losses, volume and profit. Typical business challenges are: ‘How do I maximize portfolio profit while keeping acceptance rate (volume, size) at acceptable levels?’ ‘How do I maximize profit without incurring default losses above a given level?’ ‘How do I minimize the risk of large loss exposures for a given market share?’ In this paper we are not concerned with which combination of objectives are appropriate, but rather focus on the cutoff policies that allow us to capture a number of different portfolio objectives. When there are conflicting objectives we show that optimal policies yield meaningful tradeoffs and efficient frontiers and that optimal shadow prices allow us to develop risk-adjusted tradeoffs between profit and market share. Some of the graphical solutions that we obtain are simple to derive and easy to understand without explicit mathematical formulations but even simple constraints may require formal use of non-linear programming techniques. We concentrate on models and insights that yield decision strategies and cutoff policies rather than the techniques for developing good predictors.     

Minimum values over the efficient set in multiple objective decision making

In multiple objective decision making (MODM), it is often helpful to provide the decision maker (DM) with bounds on the values of each of the objectives. Ideal solutions are relatively easy to calculate and provide upper bounds on the value of each objective over the set of efficient solutions. Ideal solutions also provide lower bounds on the value of each objective over the ideal set. However, the lower bounds over the set of efficient solutions can be strictly less than the ideal lower bounds, but are, in general, more difficult to determine. Thus MODM procedures which utilize the ideal lower bound may overlook elements of the set of efficient solutions. This study explores the differences between the subset of the set of efficient solutions to a MODM problem bounded by its ideal solutions and the complete efficient set.     

Using multiple objectives to approximate normative models

This paper discusses the rationale for the use of additive models involving multiple objectives as approximations to normative analyses. Experience has shown us that organizations often evaluate important decisions with multiple objective models rather than reducing all aspects of the problem to a single criterion, dollars, as many normative economic models prescribe. We justify this practice on two grounds: managers often prefer to think about a problem in terms of several dimensions and a multiple objective model may provide an excellent approximation to the more complex normative model. We argue that a useful analysis based on a multiple objective model will fulfill both conditions—it will provide insights for the decision maker as well as a good approximation to the normative model. We report several real-world examples of managers using multiple objective models to approximate such normative models as the risk-adjusted net present value and the value of information models. The agreement between the approximate models and the normative models is shown to be quite good. Next, we cite a portion of the behavioral decision theory literature which establishes that linear models of multiple attributes provide quite robust approximations to individual decision-making processes. We then present more general theoretical and empirical results which support our contention that linear multiple attribute models can provide good approximations to more complex models.     

Nonlinear mappings associated with the generalized linear complementarity problem

We show that the Cottle—Dantzig generalized linear complementarity problem (GLCP) is equivalent to a nonlinear complementarity problem (NLCP), a piecewise linear system of equations (PLS), a multiple objective programming problem (MOP), and a variational inequalities problem (VIP). On the basis of these equivalences, we provide an algorithm for solving problem GLCP.Project partially supported by a grant from Oak Ridge Associated Universities, TN, USA.     

Multi-objective integer programming: A general approach for generating all non-dominated solutions

In this paper we develop a general approach to generate all non-dominated solutions of the multi-objective integer programming (MOIP) Problem. Our approach, which is based on the identification of objective efficiency ranges, is an improvement over classical ε-constraint method. Objective efficiency ranges are identified by solving simpler MOIP problems with fewer objectives. We first provide the classical ε-constraint method on the bi-objective integer programming problem for the sake of completeness and comment on its efficiency. Then present our method on tri-objective integer programming problem and then extend it to the general MOIP problem with k objectives. A numerical example considering tri-objective assignment problem is also provided.