Population dynamics analysis in an agent-based artificial life system for engineering optimization problems

In this paper we discuss the relevance of performing a population dynamics analysis to improve the results obtained using agent-based artificial life systems for optimization. The present study derives from our work trying to solve engineering optimization problems using a distributed approach based on agent´s interactions. We have realized that a simple analysis of the population dynamics can show the relevance of some variables and energy exchange rates in the stability of the system. The results obtained can be used to control the equilibrium points and/or avoid non-convergence (population extinctions) by changing the initial conditions or the parameters of the energetic model used in the system. To illustrate the results of such population dynamics analysis, a practical example based on a routing algorithm is presented.