Title: Game theory for systems engineering: a survey

Authors: Gayane Grigoryan; Andrew J. Collins

Addresses: Department of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529, Virginia ' Department of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529, Virginia

Abstract: Game theory is a useful modelling approach to analyse complex systems with multiple stakeholders, describe their decision-making process, and the impact these decisions have on the overall system performance. In this paper, we review the use of game theory models in the systems engineering domain. Our approach was to conduct an extensive literature review in systems engineering related journals on game theory and systems engineering content. We have identified major application areas of game theory within systems engineering, such as electricity markets, security systems, and supply chain; which we discuss in detail. This paper aggregates notable research to date to provide an overview of the models that have been used to analyse different systems engineering problems. The paper also provides an extensive description of different game properties. This work aims to highlight the potential contribution game theory brings to solving systems engineering problems and its potential for the future.

Keywords: systems engineering; game theory; cooperative game theory; non-cooperative game theory; systems modelling; physical systems; online learning systems.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSSE.2021.116044

International Journal of System of Systems Engineering, 2021 Vol.11 No.2, pp.121 - 158

Received: 16 May 2020
Accepted: 29 Sep 2020
Published online: 06 Jul 2021 *

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