An multi-agent artificial immune network algorithm and its application

Abstract

An multi-agent artificial immune network algorithm (Maopt-aiNet) is introduced in this paper. Unlike other intelligent algorithms, Maopt-aiNet combines the idea of immune mechanics and multi-agent technology to overcome premature problem and fully make use of the agent ability of sensing and acting on the environment. The operators of Maopt-aiNet include neighborhood clonal selection, neighborhood competition, self-confidence motivation, and neighborhood collaboration. The performance of the proposed method is studied with the use of six benchmark problems and compared with other well-known intelligent algorithms. The experiments conducted show that Maopt-aiNet outperforms the other algorithms. Furthermore, it is applied to determine the murphree efficiency of the distillation column, and satisfactory results are obtained. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.