Multi-Agent Model Predictive Control of Transportation Networks

We consider multi-agent, or distributed, control of transportation networks, like traffic, water, and power networks. These networks typically have a large geographical span, modular structure, and a large number of components that require control. We discuss the necessity of a multi-agent control setting in which multiple agents control parts of the network. As potential control methodology we consider model predictive control (MPC) in a multi-agent setting. We first outline a framework for modeling transportation networks into subsystems using external variables and then discuss issues that arise when controlling these networks with multi-agent MPC. Several approaches to these issues are structured and discussed in terms of the outlined framework