Research on Manufacturing Process Control Based on Multi-Agent-System

2021 26th IEEE International Conference on Emerging Technologies and Factory Automation (ETFA )

et al. 2021

The advent of Industry 4.0 and the development of future industrial applications can be achieved using Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS). This technological development invokes high levels of communication and computation in the form of an interconnected network of industrial resources. Multi-agent systems precisely can empower such technological evolution by introducing properties like decentralisation, autonomy, flexibility, social ability and modularity to the industrial context. In this regard, the current work surveys recent multi-agent based manufacturing approaches and provides a general vision of current trends focusing on frameworks/architectures, complementary technologies and common applications. This article, ends with an integrated discussion of emerging agent-based industrial challenges, a general conclusion and final remarks.

Section: R Lu Et Al [27] : Multi-agent Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (Maddpg) Algorithmmentioning

confidence: 99%

Multi-agent based manufacturing: current trends and challenges

2021 26th IEEE International Conference on Emerging Technologies and Factory Automation (ETFA )

et al. 2021

“…The applications of agents in manufacturing industry have seen wider acceptance, such as: process and manufacturing control [15][16][17][18], manufacturing simulation and execution [19][20][21], reconfiguration and self-adaptation in manufacturing [22,3,23]. Monitoring, quality control, and diagnostics in manufacturing [24][25][26][27] can be greatly benefited by agent integration coupled with other technologies.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Cloud Based Decision Making for Multi-agent Production Systems

Progress in Artificial Intelligence

et al. 2021

The use of multi-agent systems (MAS) as a distributed control method for shop-floor manufacturing control applications has been extensively researched. MAS provides new implementation solutions for smart manufacturing requirements such as the high dynamism and flexibility required in modern manufacturing applications. MAS in smart manufacturing is becoming increasingly important to achieve increased automation of machines and other components. Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, cloud-based infrastructures, and cloud computing can also provide systems with intelligent, autonomous, and more scalable solutions. In the current work, a decision-making framework is proposed based on the combination of MAS cloud computing, agent technology, and machine learning. The framework is demonstrated in a quality control use case with vision inspection and agent-based control. The experiment utilizes a cloud-based machine learning pipeline for part classification and agent technology for routing. The results show the applicability of the framework in real-world scenarios bridging cloud service-oriented architecture with agent technology for production systems.

Agent-based manufacturing — review and expert evaluation

Int J Adv Manuf Technol

et al. 2023

The advent of smart manufacturing and the exposure to a new generation of technological enablers have revolutionized the way manufacturing process is carried out. Cyber-Physical Production Systems (CPPS) are introduced as main actors of this manufacturing shift. They are characterized for having high levels of communication, integration and computational capabilities that led them to a certain level of autonomy. Despite the high expectations and vision of CPPS, it still remains an exploratory topic. Multi-Agent Systems (MAS) have been widely used by software engineers to solve traditional computing problems, e.g., banking transactions. Because of their high levels of distribution and autonomous capabilities, MAS have been considered by the research community as a good solution to design and implement CPPS. This work first introduces a collection of requirements and characteristics of smart manufacturing. A comprehensive review of various research applications is presented to understand the current state of the art and the application of agent technology in manufacturing. Considering the smart manufacturing requirements and current research application, a SWOT analysis was formulated which identifies pros and cons of the implementation of agents in industry. The SWOT analysis was further validated by an industrial expert evaluation and the main findings and discussion of the results are presented.