A Strategy Model with Time Constraint for Bilateral Multi-issue Negotiation

Automated negotiation is a fundamental interaction mechanism in multi-agents systems. The aim of such an interaction is to reach agreements through an iterative process of bargaining. This paper presents a strategy model for bilateral multi-issue negotiation under time constraints in an incomplete information environment. We employ the mechanism of bargaining to discuss the negotiation process because such a mechanism is especially suited to the environment of multi-agent systems and allows agents to influence the outcome of future negotiations. In particular, we are concerned with the change of negotiation strategy of both parties, that is, how concessions should be made when they are necessary. To this end, we present a strategy rule with time constraints. Our analysis shows the equilibrium can be reached before the deadline if the both sides use this strategy rule. Experimental results of simulation during the negotiation process indicate that the strategy rules are efficient for the negotiation.