Application of entropy measurement technique in grey based Taguchi method for solution of correlated multiple response optimization problems: A case study in welding

In the present work, an attempt has been made to apply an efficient technique, in order to solve correlated multiple response optimization problems, in the field of submerged arc welding. The traditional grey based Taguchi approach has been extended to tackle correlated multi-objective optimization problems. The Taguchi optimization technique is based on the assumption that the quality indices (i.e. responses) are independent or uncorrelated. But, in practical cases, the assumption may not be valid always. However, the common trend in the solution of multi-objective optimization problems is to initially convert these multi-objectives into an equivalent single objective function. While deriving this equivalent objective function, different priority weights are assigned to different responses, according to their relative importance. But, there is no specific guideline for assigning these response weights. In this context, the present study aims to apply the entropy measurement technique in order to calculate the relative response weights from the analysis of entropy of the entire process. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) has been adopted to eliminate correlation that exists among the responses and to convert correlated responses into uncorrelated and independent quality indices, called principal components. These have been accumulated to calculate the overall grey relational grade, using the theory of grey relational analysis. Finally, the grey based Taguchi method has been used to derive an optimal process environment capable of producing the desired weld quality. The previously mentioned method has been applied to optimize bead geometry parameters of submerged arc bead-on-plate weldment. The paper highlights a detailed methodology of the proposed technique and its effectiveness. (C) 2009 The Society of Manufacturing Engineers. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.