Enterprise AI Analysis
A Robust FAHP-VIKOR Hybrid Framework for Bridge Deck Construction System Selection
This study introduces a hybrid decision-making framework combining Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) and VlseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) to optimize the selection of bridge construction systems during the preliminary design stage. The model prioritizes criteria using FAHP and ranks alternatives using VIKOR, effectively managing the complexity and uncertainty inherent in such decisions. Validated through two real-world Egyptian bridge projects, the framework demonstrates its reliability and adaptability, offering a valuable tool for engineers and decision-makers in infrastructure planning.
Key Metrics & Impact
Our analysis quantifies the precision and robust performance of the FAHP-VIKOR framework in complex engineering decisions.
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Expert Responses Gathered
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Sampling Adequacy (KMO)
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Consistency Ratio (CR)
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Participants as Designers
Deep Analysis & Enterprise Applications
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Understanding Bridge System Selection
Choosing the optimal structural system for bridges is complex, involving technical, economic, environmental, and safety aspects. As bridges represent significant, long-term investments, an effective decision-making process is crucial. Multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) plays a vital role in evaluating diverse alternatives against multiple, often conflicting, criteria. This study leverages a hybrid FAHP-VIKOR model to enhance the reliability and applicability of such decisions by integrating expert opinions with fuzzy logic and compromise ranking.
Review of MCDM in Bridge Engineering
Previous research has explored various MCDM methods for bridge engineering. Fuzzy AHP (FAHP) has been used to prioritize factors affecting construction delays and optimize slope stabilization, demonstrating its ability to incorporate uncertainty. VIKOR has been applied to select pontoon bridges and improve bridge design sustainability. However, FAHP lacks ranking, and VIKOR is sensitive to predefined weights and struggles with uncertainty. The literature suggests that combining FAHP for criteria weighting and VIKOR for alternative ranking, especially with fuzzy logic, creates a more robust and accurate decision-making framework for bridge selection.
FAHP-VIKOR Hybrid Approach
Our methodology involves three phases: Phase one focused on identifying suitable bridge construction systems (BCS) and key selection criteria through literature review and expert interviews. Phase two involved a questionnaire survey with experienced engineers to determine the most important criteria using the Relative Importance Index (RII). Phase three implemented the FAHP-VIKOR model: FAHP was used to assign fuzzy weights to the selected criteria, accounting for expert uncertainty, while VIKOR then ranked the eight identified BCS alternatives by measuring their closeness to the ideal solution, considering conflicting criteria to achieve a balanced compromise.
Model Implementation and Robustness
The proposed FAHP-VIKOR model was validated through two real-world case studies in Egypt: the Cairo Metro Line 3—Phase 4-B and the Tahya Misr Bridge. For Cairo Metro, "Precast post-tension girder" (BCS7) was identified as the best choice. For Tahya Misr Bridge, "Balanced cantilever precast using lifting frames" (BCS4) was preferred. A comprehensive sensitivity analysis was performed by varying criteria weights (±10% and ±25%) and the compromise parameter (v=0.3, 0.5, 0.7). The results consistently showed that the top-ranked systems remained stable, confirming the model's robustness and reliability.
Interpreting the Model's Findings
The FAHP-VIKOR hybrid model successfully integrates expert knowledge with quantitative analysis, mitigating personal biases. Technical criteria like "Nature of Crossing" and "Bridge Span Length" received top priority, highlighting their importance in design limitations. The case studies revealed that while technical efficiency often guides selection, strategic or national landmark considerations can override purely technical choices, as seen with the cable-stayed Tahya Misr Bridge. The model provides a flexible, dependable framework for decision-makers, adaptable to similar global contexts, yet acknowledging limitations related to expert subjectivity and regional applicability.
Enterprise Process Flow: Bridge Construction System Selection
Litrature review
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semi-strucured interviews set a final list for bridge construction systems and criteria
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a questionnaire to calculate the RII for a set of criteria
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Select the criteria with RII≥0.8
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Set a final list of criteria and construction systems
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Calculate fuzzy weight of the factors by using FAHP method.
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create a fuzzy pairwise comparison matrix
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coonstruct decision matrix
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Determine the best and the worst values of all criteria
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Synthesize the judgments of multiple decision-makers
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calculate the VIKOR index and rank the alternatives
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Calculate the utility measure and the regret measure
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Computation normalized weight.
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Final criteria rank.
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Check acceptable advantage and acceptable stability
Case Study I: Cairo Metro Line 3—Phase 4-B
BCS7 Most Robust System (Precast Post-Tensioned Girder)Case Study II: Tahya Misr Bridge
BCS4 Most Robust System (Balanced Cantilever Precast using Lifting Frames)| Characteristic | FAHP | VIKOR | FAHP-VIKOR |
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| Alternative ranking |
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| Handles uncertainty |
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| Works with complex systems |
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| Robust to sensitivity changes |
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Case Study 1: Cairo Metro Line 3—Phase 4-B
The fourth phase of Line 3-Phase 4-B in Cairo covered approximately 7.8 km with six stations. The National Authority for Tunnels owned the project, and a joint venture of Orascom and Arab Contractors handled the construction. The bridge in this case study was 220 spans long and measured 7800 m. Applying the FAHP-VIKOR model, the "Precast post-tension girder" (BCS7) method was identified as the optimal choice, demonstrating the model's capability to select appropriate systems even for large-scale urban infrastructure projects.
Case Study 2: Tahya Misr Bridge—Rod El Farag Axis
The Tahya Misr Bridge is a landmark infrastructure project in Egypt, featuring a main span of 300 m utilizing a cable-stayed system. The bridge's prominence as a national monument highlights influences beyond pure technical efficiency. Despite strategic and architectural considerations that led to a cable-stayed structure, our FAHP-VIKOR model identified the "balanced cantilever precast using lifting frames" (BCS4) as the most appropriate choice among the defined alternatives, showcasing the model's ability to provide a technically sound recommendation, even when strategic factors might lead to a different final decision.
Calculate Your Potential ROI
Estimate the efficiency gains and cost savings for your enterprise by adopting advanced AI decision-making frameworks.
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Your AI Implementation Roadmap
A structured approach to integrating AI into your decision-making processes, ensuring maximum impact and minimal disruption.
Discovery & Strategy Alignment
Identify key decision points, gather expert insights, and define measurable objectives for AI integration. This phase ensures a clear understanding of your enterprise's unique needs and strategic goals.
Data Preparation & Model Training
Cleanse, preprocess, and structure relevant data. Develop and train custom FAHP-VIKOR models tailored to your specific bridge construction system selection criteria and alternatives.
Pilot Deployment & Validation
Implement the AI framework in a pilot project. Validate model outputs against real-world scenarios and expert feedback, conducting sensitivity analyses to ensure robustness.
Full-Scale Integration & Monitoring
Roll out the FAHP-VIKOR system across your enterprise. Establish continuous monitoring and feedback loops to ensure ongoing performance optimization and adaptability to new data.
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