Communication within an extremely large-scale network system focus of new stochastic model

Network systems, whether computer networks, networks of autonomous vehicles, social networks, or the complex network of neurons in the brain, rely on communication between individual agents to run smoothly. Researchers understand what type of communication structure is essential for sustaining a fundamental system property, such as stability and controllability. However, it is not easy to predict whether the required communication structure can be established for agents performing in an uncertain environment.

Xudong Chen, associate professor in the Preston M. Green Department of Electrical & Systems Engineering in the McKelvey School of Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis, plans to develop a framework that would predict how fundamental system properties of large-scale networks behave in uncertain environments. With a three-year, $292,000 grant from the National Science Foundation, Chen plans to integrate several ideas and mathematical tools, including a new random graph model known as the graphon model. The project sits at the intersection of structural system theory and random graph theory.

“Graphon model is a stochastic model governing the probability that a pair of agents, such as robots, can establish a link,” Chen said. “If two robots are very close to each other, there's no barrier, so they can communicate easily. If they're too far away or there are obstacles blocking their communication links, then there's less probability that they will communicate. We want to characterize the chance of a large swarm of robots establishing rich enough communication links so that they can coordinate with each other to accomplish a given task in an uncertain and complex environment.” 

Chen's group develops advanced mathematical tools and novel engineering methods to tackle emerging challenges in large-scale multi-agent systems, which range from quantum systems, neuroscience, social science, robotics, drones and spacecraft. 

Chen is collaborating with Mohamed Ali Belabbas, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. They are collaborating to develop a course on graph theory in systems and controls, which would be the first of its kind, Chen says. They are also providing research opportunities for undergraduate students in their labs on structural system theory and are planning outreach events for K-12 students with the Institute for School Partnership.

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