Collective and emergent problem solving based on multi-agent systems : principles and applications

摘要

A multi-agent system is composed of numerous entities, called agents, interacting in various ways between them andudtheir common environment. This technology is applied in many domains like computer vision, robotics, systemudsimulation or electronic commerce. We consider that problems occuring in signal processing could also be tackled byudthis technology.udWe present first the basic tools available for multi-agent systems designers : models, platforms and methodologies. Twoudprojects illustrate our purpose : SCALA in the management of aerospace fighter patrol, and goods routing.udWe focus then on the adaptation ability of these systems considered as an emergent problem solving question. Weuddetailed in this field the AMAS (Adaptive Multi-Agent System) theory allowing a MAS design where the global fonction isudderived from the cooperative self-organisation of its components. An example on flood forecast gives implementationudinformation of this theory.