Wireless Sensor Networks as Agents for Intelligent Control of Distributed Energy Resources

CSIRO is using wireless sensor network technology for "tiny agents", deployed as autonomous controllers for individual pieces of electrical load/generation equipment in a distributed energy system. The tiny agent concept is a novel application of wireless sensor networks, providing the benefits of multi-agent systems science in a cheap, mobile, and highly distributable platform. However, the performance constraints inherent to wireless sensor networks mean the real-world realization of a tiny agent system is a significant challenge. This article details our work on tiny agents. We include a brief review of multiagent system benefits, and then discuss the challenges inherent to tiny agent concept. We also detail our applications work in applying wireless sensor networks operating as tiny agents, with a focus on intelligent heating, ventilation and air-conditioning control.