Combining Multi-Agent Systems and ArtificialIntelligence of Things: Technical Challenges andGains

Abstract A Multiagent System (MAS) refers to a network of agents collaborating to achieve same objective. This system comprises numerous individual programs or hardware components (agents) that are simpler to construct and manage. Additionally, these agents can dynamically and swiftly adapt to changes in their environment. The MAS proves advantageous in addressing intricate issues by employing the divide-and-conquer approach. It finds application in diverse fields where the emphasis is on distributed computing and control, enabling the development of resilient, adaptable, and scalable systems. The Multiagent System (MAS) is not a substitute or rival for Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods. Instead, AI techniques can be integrated within the agents to enhance their computational and decision-making capabilities. The diversity or uniformity of goals, actions, domain knowledge, sensor inputs, and outputs among the agents in the MAS can determine whether each agent is heterogeneous or homogeneous. The Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are two technologies that have long been applied to the development of smart systems. These systems cover various areas, such as smart cities, energy management, autonomous cars, etc. Intelligence, autonomy, and real-time monitoring are the fundamental elements that characterize these application areas. The convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and IoT, known as AIOT, Allows those electronic devices to make intelligent, autonomous and more automatic decisions. This integration leverages the power of MAS to enable intelligent communication and collaboration among various entities, while IoT provides a vast network of interconnected sensors and devices that collect and transmit real-time data. On the other hand, AI algorithms process and analyze this data to derive valuable insights and make informed decisions. The authors devoted efforts on the critical analysis of AIOT research, highlighting specific areas with insufficient solutions and pointing out gaps for future advances. Essentially, the authors contribution is in the formulation of innovative research directions, outlining a clear guide for researchers and professionals in the expansion of knowledge in AIOT integration. Research results in a significant contribution to the continuous advance of the area, enriching the understanding of challenges and boosting the development of solutions and strategies in this technological convergence. Eleven research questions are considered at the beginning of the review, including typical research topics and application domains. From the SLR results the research directions are: (i) Development of a methodology that shows how to integrate the different applications independent of the scenarios that are deployed in. Additionally, elaboration of the tools used in the integration process; (ii) Deployment of an agent in a microprocessor; (iii) How to implement and connect Multi-agent systems (MAS) technology and Internet of Things (IoT) devices (processors, controllers, sensors, and actuators).