Swarm Intelligence and Systems Thinking: Finding Common Ground for the Engineering of Drone Swarms Solutions

Abstract. Swarm intelligence (SI), inspired by the collective behaviour of social insects, such as ants, bees, and termites, has been applied to various domains, including the engineering of drone swarms. Another holistic approach to understand and design complex systems is systems thinking (ST), which emphasizes particularly the interactions and relationships between a system’s components. This paper explores the intersection of SI and ST, aiming to find commonalities and synergies between the two fields. Based on previous research, the paper highlights the key characteristics (e.g., decentralization, self-organization, and adaptability) of the bio-inspired bottom-up approach of SI and compares them with the core features (such as interconnectedness and feedback loops) of top-down type of ST. By integrating concepts and principles from both disciplines, the paper suggests that innovative solutions to complex problems, for instance, in the engineering of drone swarms, can be developed. The paper concludes that both approaches share a focus on emergent behaviour and the importance of considering a system as a whole. The combined application of both of them can eventually lead to a better understanding, design and management of complex artificial systems, such as drone swarm solutions.