Abstract

This research explores the application of pheromone-inspired concepts in agent-based shop floor control systems to enhance production management. Drawing analogies from coordination mechanisms that are observed in insect colonies, the research investigates the efficacy, adaptability, and scalability of pheromone-based coordination. A qualitative methodology is applied in this research, based on case studies and expert interviews, which reveal how pheromone mechanisms enhance task allocation, resource management, and production efficiency while addressing challenges like integration and scalability. Although there have been shown advantages in adaptability and responsiveness, practical applicability and scalability to very large scenarios are yet to be established. This paper focuses on the possibility of adaptive pheromone models for revolutionizing shop floor management while outlining avenues for further research in that direction towards improving industrial relevance.