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Agent-Based Control of Interaction Areas in Intralogistics: Concept, Implementation and Simulation

Author

Listed:
  • Felix Gehlhoff

    (Institute of Automation Technology, Helmut Schmidt University/University of the Federal Armed Forces Hamburg, 22043 Hamburg, Germany)

  • Niklas Jobs

    (Institute of Automation Technology, Helmut Schmidt University/University of the Federal Armed Forces Hamburg, 22043 Hamburg, Germany)

  • Vincent Henkel

    (Institute of Automation Technology, Helmut Schmidt University/University of the Federal Armed Forces Hamburg, 22043 Hamburg, Germany)

Abstract

Background : Intralogistics systems face growing challenges from globalization, individualization, and shorter product life cycles, demanding flexible and responsive solutions beyond traditional centralized control. Decentralized, agent-based approaches offer potential advantages, especially for Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) systems where managing collisions in interaction areas remains a critical issue. Methods : This study proposes two decentralized, agent-based control concepts for AGV systems in intralogistics. One uses a hierarchical model with an Intersection Manager to coordinate AGV agents, while the other employs a fully heterarchical system. For benchmarking, a First Come, First Served heuristic and a Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP) method are also implemented. Simulations show both agent-based approaches effectively prevent collisions and uphold order prioritization and timing goals. While average delays are similar, the heterarchical system requires up to 2.7 times more communication. Priority-based control enhances timeliness for highpriority vehicles but can increase delays for lower-priority AGVs. The MILP method, though effective, is limited by impractical computation times. Results : The study confirms the viability of agent-based control for managing interaction areas in AGV systems, highlighting trade-offs between decentralization, efficiency, and communication. Conclusions : It offers a foundation for further research into hybrid models and real-world application of decentralized control strategies.

Suggested Citation

  • Felix Gehlhoff & Niklas Jobs & Vincent Henkel, 2025. "Agent-Based Control of Interaction Areas in Intralogistics: Concept, Implementation and Simulation," Logistics, MDPI, vol. 9(2), pages 1-33, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlogis:v:9:y:2025:i:2:p:52-:d:1634448
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Le-Anh, Tuan & De Koster, M.B.M., 2006. "A review of design and control of automated guided vehicle systems," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 171(1), pages 1-23, May.
    2. Vis, Iris F.A., 2006. "Survey of research in the design and control of automated guided vehicle systems," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 170(3), pages 677-709, May.
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