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Purpose The purpose of this paper is to consider compromise solutions of multiple attribute decision-making methods (TOPSIS, VIKOR, and similarity-based approach) in order to evaluate and rank mutual funds and to compare the capabilities of different approaches based on the different traditional indices of mutual funds assessment. In addition, a new algorithm for ranking mutual funds was proposed subsequently. Design/methodology/approach In this research, three groups of indices including general, risk-modified performance evaluation, and risk-modified performance evaluation indices using semivariance were used in the mutual funds assessment, which led to the comparison between selected mutual funds, using three mentioned methods and three different groups of criteria. The results of this comparison were compiled and synthesized with linear assignment method. At the end, an algorithm for decision making and investing in mutual funds for professional and unprofessional investors was proposed. Findings Using different methods and different criteria proved that the results of similarity-based approach as a MADM technique have the ability to rank and evaluate mutual funds regardless of the criteria used compared to TOPSIS and VIKOR. Furthermore, the authors propose the algorithm of this research as a new model of mutual funds evaluation which considers a wide range of variables with respect to amateur and professional points of view. Originality/value The originality of this paper is threefold: first, different criteria were considered to make the evaluation more comprehensive. Second, four different approaches were used to make the results more authentic. Third, a holistic algorithm with its implication was proposed.

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The aim of this paper is to introduce a new buffering mechanism in impact reduction during assembly process of two space vehicles. Probe-cone mechanism, due to its computational easiness, is employed to study impact interaction between multibody systems. The proposed buffer with a compact structure includes a probe equipped with axial and torsional flexibilities during impact condition. Since all constraints in the problem are holonomic, the unconstrained form of Lagrangian approach will be used to derive the system's equations of motion. The Lankarani-Nikravesh contact force model, because of its advantages in multibody systems, is applied to investigate dynamic behavior of vehicles during impact-contact event. A key factor in capture process of two vehicles is to determine the proper parameters of buffer. To do this, a strategy will be introduced to evaluate the coefficients of buffer. First, the theoretical model is solved and the obtained results are verified by those recently reported for special case related to impact analysis of two space vehicles carrying flexible probe. Second, the entire capture process will be built in MATLAB/Simulink's SimMechanics multibody software to ascertain the correctness of theoretical model. Then, a simple ground-based experimental setup will be established to only prove the effectiveness of the proposed capturing system. The obtained results indicate that the proposed buffer leads to considerably reduce the peak value of impact force, to remarkably increase total contact time and to successfully perform capture process.