Journal of Intelligent & Fuzzy Systems xx (20xx) x–xx DOI:10.3233/JIFS-190128 IOS Press 1 Decision advisor based on uncertainty theories for the selection of rapid prototyping system Khaja Moiduddin, Syed Hammad Mian ∗ , Hisham Alkhalefah and Usama Umer Advanced Manufacturing Institute, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Abstract. A multitude of rapid prototyping (RP) systems and technologies have come up since the introduction of additive process. Owing to the enlarging number of these systems with distinctive efficacy, the problem of selecting an appropriate system for a particular requirement is a cumbersome task. Henceforth, this work comes up with a strategy based on multi- attribute decision making to select a most suitable RP system. The presence of subjectivity in decision making as well as the existence of imprecision from various sources emphasize the methods which must consider uncertainty and vagueness. A decision advisor based on uncertainty theories, including fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP) and grey relational analysis (GRA) has been introduced. It provides a comprehensive database comprising thirty nine commercially available RP systems. The evaluation attributes consisting of machine cost, accuracy, layer thickness, machine speed, material cost, net build size volume, machine weight, surface roughness, and material strength were utilized to characterize the different machines. The FAHP based on trapezoidal fuzzy number was implemented to determine the priority weights of various attributes, while the GRA was employed to realize the best RP system and technology. The authors believe that this system has the potential to transform into a fully developed RP selection system. Keywords: Rapid prototyping, fuzzy analytical hierarchy process, trapezoidal fuzzy number, grey relational analysis, additive manufacturing, sustainability 1. Introduction The rapid prototyping (RP) (also known as Addi- tive Manufacturing, AM) due to its innumerable benefits has revolutionized the manufacturing sec- tor. Since the inception of Stereolithography (SLA) the first commercial AM printer in 1987, different AM technologies have emerged and evolved over the years. The AM is no longer used only for visualiza- tion purpose or prototyping, but are also being used to fabricate fully functional products. Some of the primary benefits of AM include reduced lead time ∗ Corresponding author. Syed Hammad Mian, Advanced Man- ufacturing Institute, King Saud University, Riyadh 11421, Saudi Arabia. E-mail: smien@ksu.edu.sa. (most often by 75%), reduced cost (many times, the cost can be minimized by 50%), fabrication of highly complex shapes as well as high design flexibility [1]. The AM process exhibit applications in various man- ufacturing industries such as aerospace, automobiles, home appliances, electrical, defense and medical applications. According to the Wohler’s report of 2018, there were more than 135 AM companies in 2017 which produced and sold industrial AM sys- tem worldwide [2]. Moreover, the polymer based AM machines occupies the largest share among the global AM Industry [3]. In 2017, the growth of AM world- wide was $7.36 billion, that was 21% higher when compared to $6.063 billion in 2016 [4]. The AM machines depending on the type of mate- rial used, can be categorized into three systems, 1064-1246/19/$35.00 © 2019 – IOS Press and the authors. All rights reserved Corrected Proof