PSO (Particle Swarm Optimization): One Method, Many Possible Applications

Abstract

Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) is an optimization technique, deriving from the EO [5]: the main features are the natural inspiration and the possibility to implement PSO onto different levels. This chapter is divided in three section: (1) the PSO definitions and relationship with MAS (Multi Agent Systems) framework; (2) three applications of PSO methods; (3) some general conclusions and perspectives. We try to show that PSO has a marked multidisciplinary character since systems with swarm characteristics can be observed in a variety of domains: the main argument in favor to PSO is proper the multidisciplinary character. Besides, POS can resolve multiobjective otpimization problems in efficient way, because POS naturally incorporates some concepts from Pareto-Optimal framework