Virtual pheromone based network flow control for modular robotic systems

Abstract

Guaranteeing data transmission between modules is the key for application development of modular robotic systems. In a multi-channel modular robotic system, intersection modules play an essential role of communication channel selection in controlling data flow toward desired destinations. The gradient-based routing algorithm is an ideal solution to create an one-way communication path from any robotic module to a designated destination. To create bi-directional communication for a communication path of robotic configuration, virtual pheromone-based routing algorithm is a promising mechanism for intersection modules due to its simplicity and distributivity. In this paper, we address a virtual pheromone based network flow control based on the integration of gradient and virtual pheromone-based routing algorithms. We validated this method through an education and entertainment application using our newly developed modular robotic system.