Description: A multi-agent system is a set of multiple autonomous agents that interact with each other to achieve common goals or solve complex problems. Each agent in this system can be software or a robot, and is designed to make decisions independently, based on its environment and the information it receives from other agents. These systems are highly scalable and can adapt to different contexts, making them ideal for tasks that require collaboration and coordination. The main characteristics of a multi-agent system include autonomy, communication capability, adaptability, and conflict resolution ability. The relevance of these systems lies in their ability to tackle problems that are difficult to solve by a single agent, allowing for greater efficiency and effectiveness in task execution. In the fields of robotics and automation, multi-agent systems can be used to coordinate fleets of robots, manage resources in various environments, or even in artificial intelligence applications, where multiple agents work together to learn and improve their performance.
History: The concept of multi-agent systems began to take shape in the 1970s when researchers started exploring artificial intelligence and robotics. One important milestone was the development of agent models in the context of game theory and economics. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, interest in these systems grew, driven by advances in computing and algorithms. In 1999, the first international conference on multi-agent systems was held, which consolidated their relevance in technological research.
Uses: Multi-agent systems are used in various applications, including collaborative robotics, where multiple robots work together to perform complex tasks. They are also applied in traffic management, where agents can simulate and optimize vehicle flows. In the field of artificial intelligence, they are used for distributed learning, where several agents share information and experiences to improve their collective performance.
Examples: A practical example of a multi-agent system is the use of drones in precision agriculture, where multiple drones work together to monitor crops and optimize resource use. Another example is the energy management system in smart buildings, where different agents control lighting, heating, and other systems to maximize energy efficiency.
