On the use of filters to facilitate the post-optimal analysis of the Pareto solutions in multi-objective optimization

Abstract

Multi-objective optimization (MOO) has emerged recently as a useful technique in the design andplanning of engineering systems because it allows identifying alternatives leading to significant envi-ronmental savings. MOO models typically contain an infinite number of Pareto solutions, from whichdecision-makers should choose the best one according to their preferences. An approach is here pre-sented that identifies and retains for further inspection a reduced set of Pareto solutions showing betteroverall performance. The capabilities of our approach are illustrated through its application to the designof reverse osmosis desalination plants considering simultaneously the unitary production cost and a setof environmental impacts in several damage categories. Our method reduces significantly the number ofPareto points, thereby facilitating the decision-making process in MOO.

The authors would like to acknowledge financial support from the Spanish Government(ENE2011-28269-C03-03, ENE2011-22722, DPI2012-37154-C02-02, CTQ2012-37039-C02) and the Catalan Government for the quality accreditation given to their research groups SUSCAPE and GREA (2009 SGR 545, 2009 SGR 534)