Selection of 3D Printers for Applications at the Naval Systems Analysis Center (CASNAV): An Innovative Multicriteria Approach

The advancement of 3D printing technology has played a revolutionary role in a wide range of industries. However, the proper selection of 3D printers to meet the specific needs of the industry is a complex challenge, due to the variety of criteria involved. In this context, the present study proposed an innovative methodology called Simple Aggregation of Preferences Expressed by Ordinal Vectors – Princpal Components (SAPEVO-PC) combined with the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to evaluate and prioritize 3D printers to be used in CASNAV. The relevance of this study is evident for both academia and society. Academically, the study presents a robust methodology that can be adapted to several complex situations, promoting a more structured and rational approach to decision-making. In addition, it contributes to the advancement of research on 3D printing, encouraging innovation and the production of complex shapes.