Building distribution networks using cooperative agents.

Urquhart, Neil B

Abstract

This chapter examines the use of emergent computing to optimize solutions to logistics problems. The chapter initially explores the use of agents and evolutionary algorithms to optimize postal distribution networks. The structure of the agent community and the means of interaction between agents is based on social interactions previously used to solve these problems. The techniques developed are then adapted for use in a dynamic environment planning the dispatch of goods from a supermarket. These problems are based on real-world data, in terms of geography and constraints. The author hopes that this will inform researchers as to the suitability of emergent computing in real-world scenarios and the abilities of agent based systems to mimic social systems.

Citation

Urquhart, N. B. (2006). Building distribution networks using cooperative agents. In J.-P. Rennard (Ed.), Handbook of Research on Nature Inspired Computing for Economics and Management (465-482). Idea Group Reference. https://doi.org/10.4018/978-1-59140-984-7.ch037

• Publication Date: 2006
• Deposit Date: Feb 16, 2010
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Pages: 465-482
• Book Title: Handbook of Research on Nature Inspired Computing for Economics and Management
• ISBN: 1-59140-984-5
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4018/978-1-59140-984-7.ch037
• Keywords: Distribution networks; emergent computing; logistics; evolutionary algorithms; agent community; real-world; social systems
• Public URL: http://researchrepository.napier.ac.uk/id/eprint/3458