Comparing different overlay topologies and metrics in pulse-coupled multi-agent systems

Abstract

In Multi-Agent Systems (MASs) it is of vital importance that basic network operations are performed without the interference of a central entity (i.e. agent). In this paper we will present how to use a self-organization approach to achieve time synchronization of agents in MASs using a Pulse-Coupled Oscillators (PCO) model that is based on flashing fireflies. Fireflies are known to emit flashes at regular intervals when isolated, but when they are within a group, they converge upon the same rhythm until time synchronization is achieved. This paper investigates how the choice of overlay network topology and metric affects the time synchronization process of agents in MASs. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.