Research On Multi－Agent Technology And Application In The Supply Chain Management

Agent-based computing represents an exciting new hot point in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and, more generally, Computer Science. Autonomous Agents and Multi-Agent Systems (MAS) represent a new way of analyzing, designing, and implementing complex systems. Agents are being used in an increasing wide variety of application. In this thesis, the most difficulty and popular problem, coordination and negotiation problems of MAS have been discussed.Firstly, a review of the history of Agent technology is presented, and the current situation of this field including the problems and defects are analyzed.Secondly, MAS's coordination and negotiation problems have been discussed. Three approaches to the coordination of multi-agent systems have been analyzed and compared. The process of the negotiation has been divided into two phases, one of which is discussion phase, the other of which is decision-making phase. The model of MAS negotiation uses Bayesian equilibrium game with communication to analyze the procedure of decision-making. The application of game theory into negotiation for MAS has been investigated. Thirdly, the Agent technology theory is applied to Supply Chain Management (SCM). SCM framework based on Agent technology has been constructed. The coordination system based on social constraints and conversation plans has been established. Finally, using the inventory management as an example, illustrates how apply Agent technology theory into the SCM.