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Time-out protocol for task allocation in multi-agent systems

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Abstract

In multi-agent system, the implementation of a time-out protocol can improve workflow coherence and reduce the communication congestion due to the coordination process among agents. This approach is part of effective CIM workflow planning and control for agent-based operations emerging in assembly, manufacturing, service, and logistics. The case study illustrated in this article concerns industrial testing and rework services provided by a shared resource. Results of analyses have been verified by simulation to illustrate how performance improves or deteriorates when different time-out protocols are applied. A general model is introduced for numerical evaluation, identifying the recommended time-out threshold, and the regions where time-out protocols are, or are not useful for better workflow. Measures of workflow coordination performance, including time-oriented and viability-oriented measures are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Industrial Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA

    P. Anussornnitisarn & S. Y. Nof

  2. Schlumberger Corp., Sugar Land, Texas, USA

    J. Peralta

Authors
  1. P. Anussornnitisarn
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  2. J. Peralta
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  3. S. Y. Nof
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Anussornnitisarn, P., Peralta, J. & Nof, S.Y. Time-out protocol for task allocation in multi-agent systems. Journal of Intelligent Manufacturing 13, 511–522 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021054130445

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021054130445

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