Multi-agent-oriented approach to supply chain planning and scheduling in make-to-order manufacturing

Abstract

In this paper a Supply Chain Multi-agent Systems (SCMAS) framework integrating Bilateral Negotiation (BiNeg), Proactive Order Monitoring Multi-Agent System (POMMAS), and Production Planning and Scheduling of Multi-Agent System (PPS_MAS) modules on the basis of different agent platforms is presented to address the organising planning and synchronising monitoring events in a supply chain. It addresses the negotiation for suppliers' proposals trade-off and the dynamic scheduling for new orders aspects of supply chain management. Moreover, we introduce key innovative modules of the SCMAS frame with a special emphasis on a series of negotiation and monitoring processes through employing fuzzy logic to evaluate suppliers' proposals, and then proactive detection of events. The immediate communication of such information to all affected supply chain partners are required. Finally, the capability of the approach is demonstrated by two experimental results on make-to-order computer production problem instances.