“This book provides an overview of the control theory of multi-agent systems. It is structured into seven chapters, each of which has exercises, references and Python code. An index is also provided at the end of the book. The book is written for readers at the level of first-year graduate students in control systems, computer science and engineering.” (Yilun Shang, Mathematical Reviews, June, 2025)
Control of Multi-agent Systems
Theory and Simulations with Python
von Masaaki Nagahara, Shun-Ichi Azuma und Hyo-Sung AhnThis textbook teaches control theory for multi-agent systems. Readers will learn the basics of linear algebra and graph theory, which are then developed to describe and solve multi-agent control problems. The authors address important and fundamental problems including:
• consensus control;
• coverage control;
• formation control;
• distributed optimization; and
• the viral spreading phenomenon.
Students' understanding of the core theory for multi-agent control is enhanced through worked examples and programs in the popular Python language. End-of-chapter exercises are provided to help assess learning progress. Instructors who adopt the book for their courses can download a solutions manual and the figures in the book for lecture slides. Additionally, the Python programs are available for download and can be used for experiments by students in advanced undergraduate or graduate courses based on this text.
The broad spectrum of applications relevant to this material includes the Internet of Things, cyber-physical systems, robot swarms, communications networks, smart grids, and truck platooning. Additionally, in the spheres of social science and public health, it applies to opinion dynamics and the spreading of viruses in social networks. Students interested in learning about such applications, or in pursuing further research in multi-agent systems from a theoretical perspective, will find much to gain from Control of Multi-agent Systems. Instructors wishing to teach the subject will also find it beneficial.
