A survey on clustering methods for distributed and networked control systems

Clustering strategies are becoming increasingly relevant to boost the scalability of distributed control methods by focusing the cooperation efforts on highly coupled agents. They are also relevant in systems where failing communication links and plug-and-play events are considered, which demand increased flexibility and modu larity. This article reviews commonalities and differences of those distributed strategies that exploit the degree of interaction between control agents to boost the mentioned properties, frequently leading to control structures where the communication network becomes a decision variable that may evolve dynamically. Taxonomies based on the control law employed, the criterion for selecting the network topology, its static/dynamical nature, the control architecture, and the provided theoretical properties, are given. Additionally, a review of applications in power networks, water systems, vehicle and traffic systems, renewable energy plants, and chemical processes is provided.Programa Español de Formación de Personal Académico FPU17/02653Horizonte 2020 (Unión Europea) 789051Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad ( España) DPI2017-86918-RMinisterio de Economía y Competitividad ( España) PID2020-119476RB-I0