Inventory classification system in space mission component replenishment using multi-attribute fuzzy ABC classification
Industrial Management & Data Systems
ISSN: 0263-5577
Article publication date: 1 February 2021
Issue publication date: 2 March 2021
Abstract
Purpose
This project attempts to present a space component inventory classification system for space inventory replenishment and management. The authors propose to adopt a classification system that can incorporate all the different variables in a multi-criteria configuration. Fuzzy logic is applied as an effective way for formulating classification problems in space inventory replenishment.
Design/methodology/approach
A fuzzy-based approach with ABC classification is proposed to incorporate all the different variables in a multi-criteria configuration. Fuzzy logic is applied as an effective way for formulating classification problems in space inventory replenishment of the soil preparation system (SOPSYS) which is used in grinding and sifting Phobos rocks to sub-millimeter size in the Phobos-Grunt space mission. An information system was developed using the existing platform and was used to support the key aspects in performing inventory classification and purchasing optimization.
Findings
The proposed classification system was found to be able to classify the inventory and optimize the purchasing decision efficiency. Based on the information provided from the system, implementation plans for the SOPSYS project and related space projects can be proposed.
Research limitations/implications
The paper addresses one of the main difficulties in handling qualitative or quantitative classification criteria. The model can be implemented using mathematical calculation tools and integrated into the existing inventory management system. The proposed model has important implications in optimizing the purchasing decisions to shorten the research and development of other space instruments in space missions.
Originality/value
Inventory management in the manufacture of space instruments is one of the major problems due to the complexity of the manufacturing process and the large variety of items. The classification system can optimize purchasing decision-making in the inventory management process. It is also designed to be flexible and can be implemented for the manufacture of other space mission instruments.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to acknowledge the support of the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. This project received financial support for the Chang'e Phase 3 - Sample Return Instruments projects including H-ZG3K and 4-88ZQ.
Citation
Yung, K.L., Ho, G.T.S., Tang, Y.M. and Ip, W.H. (2021), "Inventory classification system in space mission component replenishment using multi-attribute fuzzy ABC classification", Industrial Management & Data Systems, Vol. 121 No. 3, pp. 637-656. https://doi.org/10.1108/IMDS-09-2020-0518
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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