Multi-AGV scheduling optimization based on: Neuro-endocrine coordination mechanism

Abstract

To solve the problems of task scheduling and coordination control presented by a multi-AGV system, the mixed regional control model for the production task has been advanced. The architecture of multi-AGV task assignment and scheduling mechanism has been proposed by combining the mixed regional control model for the production task and the neuro-endocrine coordination mechanism. Hormones for manufacturing cell are secreted by the machine tool according to the information in the production task, and the task can be allocated to the most suitable machine according to the hormone concentrations of the manufacturing cell. The AGV's hormones are secreted according to the AGV's operation state. The AGV with the largest hormone concentration will be chosen to execute the transportation task, thus shortening the overall run time of the system. A series of scheduling simulation experiments are performed for some specific examples to demonstrate the feasibility and efficacy of the proposed approach. The results show that tasks can be allocated according to the current status of a machine tool and tasks can be scheduled according to the current state of the AGV system to maximize the efficiency of the AGVs as well as that of the overall system.