A Multi-Agent Based Approach to Dynamic Scheduling of Machines and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV) in Manufacturing Systems by Considering AGV Breakdowns

In a competitive business environment, producing goods on time plays a very important role. In addition to regular control complexities in manufacturing environments, some unforeseen technical problems may affect the efficiency of production. The breakdown of automated guided vehicles (AGV) during manufacturing is one of these problems. This problem generally requires an instantaneous solution while the system is operating. However, traditional production control systems and algorithms handle this kind of problem centrally and usually are not able to provide effective solutions promptly. This paper proposes a multiagent based scheduling approach for AGVs and machines within a manufacturing system where the AGV breakdowns are considered. After implementation, this approach is designed to work under a real-time manufacturing environment and feasible schedules are supposed to emerge from negotiation/bidding mechanisms between agents.