Model independence in swarm robotics

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine and illustrate the development of a methodology for generating swarms using lossless flocking.

Design/methodology/approach

A general methodology for swarm design is described. Examples of this approach in the literature are examined. A general requirement for lossless flocking is developed. The requirement is used in developing two swarm behaviors.

Findings

It is possible to apply the approach to the lossless flocking and to use the swarm condition to develop two swarm behaviors which satisfy this condition in many situations.

Research limitations/implications

This paper illustrates the general swarm engineering method and demonstrates how it can be properly applied.

Originality/value

The swarm engineering method is used to develop the “quark” model, a new physicomimetic model.

Citation

Kazadi, S. (2009), "Model independence in swarm robotics", International Journal of Intelligent Computing and Cybernetics, Vol. 2 No. 4, pp. 672-694. https://doi.org/10.1108/17563780911005836