Contract Net Protocol

About: Contract Net Protocol is a research topic. Over the lifetime, 606 publications have been published within this topic receiving 13729 citations.

A Problem Solver for Scheduling Workflows in Multi-agents Systems Based on Petri Nets

Abstract: Workflow scheduling in multi-agent systems (MAS) is a challenging problem due to the computational complexity involved, distributed architecture and dependency of different agents' workflows. How to develop a problem solver that can be applied in MAS to achieve coherent and consistent workflow schedules that can meet a customer's order is an important issue. In this paper, we propose a solution methodology for scheduling workflows in MAS. Our solution combines the multi-agent system architecture, contract net protocol and workflow models specified by Petri nets. Our solution algorithm is developed based on transformation of workflow model to network models. A subgradient algorithm and a heuristic algorithm are applied to find the solutions. A problem solver for workflow scheduling in MAS has been implemented.

Research on scheduling and Cooperation of MAS-based collaborative transit system

Abstract: This paper proposes a collaborative transit system architecture based on multi-agent-mechanism, in which employed are such different of Agents as Order Agent, Management Agent, Task Agent, SAgent and TUAgent. Also, it introduces the respective function of these Agents. Furthermore, according to the announce and bid processes in the contract net protocol,this paper give out the schedule flow based on multi-agent-mechanism, which achieves the reasonable allocation between task and resource through the coordination of Task Agent and SAgent or TUAgent. Finally, expound the Cooperation of multi-agent in DSTS.

The Model of Autonomous Unmanned Underwater Vehicles Interaction for Collaborative Missions

Abstract: Results of the work carried out by Saint-Petersburg State Marine Technical University in the framework of the project, connected with complex researches in maintenance of creation of a multi-agent sensory-communication network based on marine robotic platforms (MRP), are presented. In the context of the mentioned works, creation and testing of communication protocol for µAUVs with hydroacoustic modems is proposed. The article describes steps of protocol creation: from mission planning to modem control and modeling with digital imitation model testing (Solving the task of monitoring the seabed area). Within the framework of the concept of a “budget”, limited serial product, functional systems/modules of µAUV are worked out, taking into account the availability of equipment and components (concerning required technical characteristics and their cost). For the selected external appearance and design dimensions of the device, the simulation of hydrodynamic, signal power and energy characteristics were performed. Within the framework of the project, a software and hardware architecture of the information system of the vehicle was developed, as well as a model of interaction between the µAUV, the wave glider and control center. The work results in proposal and testing of µAUVs communication through the water. Simulation results of implementing mission by a group of developed µAUVs can be modeled by ground robots with some software limitations. Based on the results, ways for further work on the subjects are being determined.

DynCNET: a negotiation and coordination protocol for dynamic task assignment

Abstract: Task assignment in Multi-Agent Systems is a complex coordination problem, especially in systems that operate under dynamic and changing conditions. Adaptive task assignment is used to handle these dynamic and changing circumstances. This technical document describes an adaptive task assignment protocol, DynCNET which is an extension of the Contract Net Protocol. In this document, the DynCNET protocol will be build step by step, starting from the Contract Net protocol. We will add dynamic task assignment, synchronization of abort messages and scope handling. The final result will be the DynCNET protocol with support for synchronization of abort messages and scope handling.