Flood Control Operations Based on the Theory of Variable Fuzzy Sets

Flood control decisions are often involved with quantitative and qualitative criteria. In this paper, a decision model is presented for flood control operations based on the theory of variable fuzzy sets. Using dual comparison, two models computing relative membership grades with qualitative and quantitative criteria are established, respectively. A method integrating subjective preference and iterative weights is proposed for weight-assessment. First, an initial solution of criteria weights is obtained by using proposed fuzzy optimal iteration model. Then, according to their knowledge related to real time flood operations, operators may modify the initial weights if necessary. When the relative membership grades of alternatives belonging to all rankings are fixed by using multi-criterion variable fuzzy model proposed, the decision alternative is chosen according to the ranking characteristic value computed using a defuzzification equation. The case study of Fengman Reservoir flood operation (in China) is provided to illustrate the application of the proposed method. With the incorporation of operator’s knowledge related to flood operations, the proposed model is flexible and practical. Copyright Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2011