A multi-agent system framework for supply chain management under district alliance setting

Abstract

Multi-agent system (MAS) is regarded as an efficient approach to solving dynamic and distributed problem in complicated operation process of supply chain. The MAS organization architecture for supply chain of district alliance is discussed based on virtual agent federation. A MAS architecture model for supply chain system is created and the functions of facilitator agent and Workflow engine have been emphasized in the model. Multiple upper-layer agent federations are designed to execute the complex system tasks and to implement the system functions. A MAS system framework which has features of high reactivity, reusability, flexibility and reliability is proposed based on CORBA standards. Application example is illustrated in a synergic business prototype system under district alliance setting. © 2006 International Federation for Information Processing.