Multi-agent model predictive control of transportation networks

Reference:
R.R. Negenborn, B. De Schutter, and H. Hellendoorn, "Multi-agent model predictive control of transportation networks," Proceedings of the 2006 IEEE International Conference on Networking, Sensing and Control (ICNSC 2006), Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, pp. 296-301, Apr. 2006.

Abstract:
We consider multi-agent, or distributed, control of transportation networks, like traffic, water, and power networks. These networks typically have a large geographical span, modular structure, and a large number of components that require control. We discuss the necessity of a multi-agent control setting in which multiple agents control parts of the network. As potential control methodology we consider Model Predictive Control (MPC) in a multi-agent setting. We first outline a framework for modeling transportation networks into subsystems using external variables and then discuss issues that arise when controlling these networks with multi-agent MPC. Several approaches to these issues are structured and discussed in terms of the outlined framework.