Lei Lei

Lei Lei, Tong Liu, Kan Zheng et al.

The impact of Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communications on platoon control performance is investigated. Platoon control is essentially a sequential stochastic decision problem (SSDP), which can be solved by Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) to deal with both the control constraints and uncertainty in the platoon leading vehicle's behavior. In this context, the value of V2X communications for DRL-based platoon controllers is studied with an emphasis on the tradeoff between the gain of including exogenous information in the system state for reducing uncertainty and the performance erosion due to the curse-of-dimensionality. Our objective is to find the specific set of information that should be shared among the vehicles for the construction of the most appropriate state space. SSDP models are conceived for platoon control under different information topologies (IFT) by taking into account `just sufficient' information. Furthermore, theorems are established for comparing the performance of their optimal policies. In order to determine whether a piece of information should or should not be transmitted for improving the DRL-based control policy, we quantify its value by deriving the conditional KL divergence of the transition models. More meritorious information is given higher priority in transmission, since including it in the state space has a higher probability in offsetting the negative effect of having higher state dimensions. Finally, simulation results are provided to illustrate the theoretical analysis.

Jiaju Qi, Lei Lei, Kan Zheng et al.

In this paper, we investigate the scheduling issue of diesel generators (DGs) in an Internet of Things (IoT)-Driven isolated microgrid (MG) by deep reinforcement learning (DRL). The renewable energy is fully exploited under the uncertainty of renewable generation and load demand. The DRL agent learns an optimal policy from history renewable and load data of previous days, where the policy can generate real-time decisions based on observations of past renewable and load data of previous hours collected by connected sensors. The goal is to reduce operating cost on the premise of ensuring supply-demand balance. In specific, a novel finite-horizon partial observable Markov decision process (POMDP) model is conceived considering the spinning reserve. In order to overcome the challenge of discrete-continuous hybrid action space due to the binary DG switching decision and continuous energy dispatch (ED) decision, a DRL algorithm, namely the hybrid action finite-horizon RDPG (HAFH-RDPG), is proposed. HAFH-RDPG seamlessly integrates two classical DRL algorithms, i.e., deep Q-network (DQN) and recurrent deterministic policy gradient (RDPG), based on a finite-horizon dynamic programming (DP) framework. Extensive experiments are performed with real-world data in an IoT-driven MG to evaluate the capability of the proposed algorithm in handling the uncertainty due to inter-hour and inter-day power fluctuation and to compare its performance with those of the benchmark algorithms.

Tong Liu, Lei Lei, Kan Zheng et al.

Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) is regarded as a potential method for car-following control and has been mostly studied to support a single following vehicle. However, it is more challenging to learn a stable and efficient car-following policy when there are multiple following vehicles in a platoon, especially with unpredictable leading vehicle behavior. In this context, we adopt an integrated DRL and Dynamic Programming (DP) approach to learn autonomous platoon control policies, which embeds the Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (DDPG) algorithm into a finite-horizon value iteration framework. Although the DP framework can improve the stability and performance of DDPG, it has the limitations of lower sampling and training efficiency. In this paper, we propose an algorithm, namely Finite-Horizon-DDPG with Sweeping through reduced state space using Stationary approximation (FH-DDPG-SS), which uses three key ideas to overcome the above limitations, i.e., transferring network weights backward in time, stationary policy approximation for earlier time steps, and sweeping through reduced state space. In order to verify the effectiveness of FH-DDPG-SS, simulation using real driving data is performed, where the performance of FH-DDPG-SS is compared with those of the benchmark algorithms. Finally, platoon safety and string stability for FH-DDPG-SS are demonstrated.

Jiaju Qi, Lei Lei, Kan Zheng et al.

Nowadays, the application of microgrids (MG) with renewable energy is becoming more and more extensive, which creates a strong need for dynamic energy management. In this paper, deep reinforcement learning (DRL) is applied to learn an optimal policy for making joint energy dispatch (ED) and unit commitment (UC) decisions in an isolated MG, with the aim for reducing the total power generation cost on the premise of ensuring the supply-demand balance. In order to overcome the challenge of discrete-continuous hybrid action space due to joint ED and UC, we propose a DRL algorithm, i.e., the hybrid action finite-horizon DDPG (HAFH-DDPG), that seamlessly integrates two classical DRL algorithms, i.e., deep Q-network (DQN) and deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG), based on a finite-horizon dynamic programming (DP) framework. Moreover, a diesel generator (DG) selection strategy is presented to support a simplified action space for reducing the computation complexity of this algorithm. Finally, the effectiveness of our proposed algorithm is verified through comparison with several baseline algorithms by experiments with real-world data set.

Tong Liu, Lei Lei, Kan Zheng et al.

An intelligent decision-making system enabled by Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communications is essential to achieve safe and efficient autonomous driving (AD), where two types of decisions have to be made at different timescales, i.e., vehicle control and radio resource allocation (RRA) decisions. The interplay between RRA and vehicle control necessitates their collaborative design. In this two-part paper (Part I and Part II), taking platoon control (PC) as an example use case, we propose a joint optimization framework of multi-timescale control and communications (MTCC) based on Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL). In this paper (Part I), we first decompose the problem into a communication-aware DRL-based PC sub-problem and a control-aware DRL-based RRA sub-problem. Then, we focus on the PC sub-problem assuming an RRA policy is given, and propose the MTCC-PC algorithm to learn an efficient PC policy. To improve the PC performance under random observation delay, the PC state space is augmented with the observation delay and PC action history. Moreover, the reward function with respect to the augmented state is defined to construct an augmented state Markov Decision Process (MDP). It is proved that the optimal policy for the augmented state MDP is optimal for the original PC problem with observation delay. Different from most existing works on communication-aware control, the MTCC-PC algorithm is trained in a delayed environment generated by the fine-grained embedded simulation of C-V2X communications rather than by a simple stochastic delay model. Finally, experiments are performed to compare the performance of MTCC-PC with those of the baseline DRL algorithms.

Emanuel Figetakis, Yahuza Bello, Ahmed Refaey et al.

A sudden roadblock on highways due to many reasons such as road maintenance, accidents, and car repair is a common situation we encounter almost daily. Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) equipped with sensors that can acquire vehicle dynamics such as speed, acceleration, and location can make intelligent decisions to change lanes before reaching a roadblock. A number of literature studies have examined car-following models and lane-changing models. However, only a few studies proposed an integrated car-following and lane-changing model, which has the potential to model practical driving maneuvers. Hence, in this paper, we present an integrated car-following and lane-changing decision-control system based on Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) to address this issue. Specifically, we consider a scenario where sudden construction work will be carried out along a highway. We model the scenario as a Markov Decision Process (MDP) and employ the well-known DQN algorithm to train the RL agent to make the appropriate decision accordingly (i.e., either stay in the same lane or change lanes). To overcome the delay and computational requirement of DRL algorithms, we adopt an MEC-assisted architecture where the RL agents are trained on MEC servers. We utilize the highly reputable SUMO simulator and OPENAI GYM to evaluate the performance of the proposed model under two policies; ε-greedy policy and Boltzmann policy. The results unequivocally demonstrate that the DQN agent trained using the ε-greedy policy significantly outperforms the one trained with the Boltzmann policy.

Jiaju Qi, Lei Lei, Thorsteinn Jonsson et al.

The growing adoption of Electric Buses (EBs) represents a significant step toward sustainable development. By utilizing Internet of Things (IoT) systems, charging stations can autonomously determine charging schedules based on real-time data. However, optimizing EB charging schedules remains a critical challenge due to uncertainties in travel time, energy consumption, and fluctuating electricity prices. Moreover, to address real-world complexities, charging policies must make decisions efficiently across multiple time scales and remain scalable for large EB fleets. In this paper, we propose a Hierarchical Deep Reinforcement Learning (HDRL) approach that reformulates the original Markov Decision Process (MDP) into two augmented MDPs. To solve these MDPs and enable multi-timescale decision-making, we introduce a novel HDRL algorithm, namely Double Actor-Critic Multi-Agent Proximal Policy Optimization Enhancement (DAC-MAPPO-E). Scalability challenges of the Double Actor-Critic (DAC) algorithm for large-scale EB fleets are addressed through enhancements at both decision levels. At the high level, we redesign the decentralized actor network and integrate an attention mechanism to extract relevant global state information for each EB, decreasing the size of neural networks. At the low level, the Multi-Agent Proximal Policy Optimization (MAPPO) algorithm is incorporated into the DAC framework, enabling decentralized and coordinated charging power decisions, reducing computational complexity and enhancing convergence speed. Extensive experiments with real-world data demonstrate the superior performance and scalability of DAC-MAPPO-E in optimizing EB fleet charging schedules.

Lei Lei, Kan Zheng, Jie Mei et al.

The vision of sixth-generation (6G) wireless networks paves the way for the seamless integration of digital twins into vehicular networks, giving rise to a Vehicular Digital Twin Network (VDTN). The large amount of computing resources as well as the massive amount of spatial-temporal data in Digital Twin (DT) domain can be utilized to enhance the communication and control performance of Internet of Vehicle (IoV) systems. In this article, we first propose the architecture of VDTN, emphasizing key modules that center on functions related to the joint optimization of control and communication. We then delve into the intricacies of the multitimescale decision process inherent in joint optimization in VDTN, specifically investigating the dynamic interplay between control and communication. To facilitate the joint optimization, we define two Value of Information (VoI) concepts rooted in control performance. Subsequently, utilizing VoI as a bridge between control and communication, we introduce a novel joint optimization framework, which involves iterative processing of two Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) modules corresponding to control and communication to derive the optimal policy. Finally, we conduct simulations of the proposed framework applied to a platoon scenario to demonstrate its effectiveness in ensu

Jiaju Qi, Lei Lei, Thorsteinn Jonsson et al.

The charging scheduling problem of Electric Buses (EBs) is investigated based on Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL). A Markov Decision Process (MDP) is conceived, where the time horizon includes multiple charging and operating periods in a day, while each period is further divided into multiple time steps. To overcome the challenge of long-range multi-phase planning with sparse reward, we conceive Hierarchical DRL (HDRL) for decoupling the original MDP into a high-level Semi-MDP (SMDP) and multiple low-level MDPs. The Hierarchical Double Deep Q-Network (HDDQN)-Hindsight Experience Replay (HER) algorithm is proposed for simultaneously solving the decision problems arising at different temporal resolutions. As a result, the high-level agent learns an effective policy for prescribing the charging targets for every charging period, while the low-level agent learns an optimal policy for setting the charging power of every time step within a single charging period, with the aim of minimizing the charging costs while meeting the charging target. It is proved that the flat policy constructed by superimposing the optimal high-level policy and the optimal low-level policy performs as well as the optimal policy of the original MDP. Since jointly learning both levels of policies is challenging due to the non-stationarity of the high-level agent and the sampling inefficiency of the low-level agent, we divide the joint learning process into two phases and exploit our new HER algorithm to manipulate the experience replay buffers for both levels of agents. Numerical experiments are performed with the aid of real-world data to evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithm.

Lei Lei, Kan Zheng, Xuemin et al.

As Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) evolves towards future sixth-generation (6G) networks, Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs) are emerging to become a key application. Leveraging data-driven Machine Learning (ML), especially Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL), is expected to significantly enhance CAV decision-making in both vehicle control and V2X communication under uncertainty. These two decision-making processes are closely intertwined, with the value of information (VoI) acting as a crucial bridge between them. In this paper, we introduce Sequential Stochastic Decision Process (SSDP) models to define and assess VoI, demonstrating their application in optimizing communication systems for CAVs. Specifically, we formally define the SSDP model and demonstrate that the MDP model is a special case of it. The SSDP model offers a key advantage by explicitly representing the set of information that can enhance decision-making when available. Furthermore, as current research on VoI remains fragmented, we propose a systematic VoI modeling framework grounded in the MDP, Reinforcement Learning (RL) and Optimal Control theories. We define different categories of VoI and discuss their corresponding estimation methods. Finally, we present a structured approach to leverage the various VoI metrics for optimizing the ``When", ``What", and ``How" to communicate problems. For this purpose, SSDP models are formulated with VoI-associated reward functions derived from VoI-based optimization objectives. While we use a simple vehicle-following control problem to illustrate the proposed methodology, it holds significant potential to facilitate the joint optimization of stochastic, sequential control and communication decisions in a wide range of networked control systems.

Jiaju Qi, Lei Lei, Thorsteinn Jonsson et al.

The integration of Electric Buses (EBs) with renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic (PV) panels is a promising approach to promote sustainable and low-carbon public transportation. However, optimizing EB charging schedules to minimize operational costs while ensuring safe operation without battery depletion remains challenging - especially under real-world conditions, where uncertainties in PV generation, dynamic electricity prices, variable travel times, and limited charging infrastructure must be accounted for. In this paper, we propose a safe Hierarchical Deep Reinforcement Learning (HDRL) framework for solving the EB Charging Scheduling Problem (EBCSP) under multi-source uncertainties. We formulate the problem as a Constrained Markov Decision Process (CMDP) with options to enable temporally abstract decision-making. We develop a novel HDRL algorithm, namely Double Actor-Critic Multi-Agent Proximal Policy Optimization Lagrangian (DAC-MAPPO-Lagrangian), which integrates Lagrangian relaxation into the Double Actor-Critic (DAC) framework. At the high level, we adopt a centralized PPO-Lagrangian algorithm to learn safe charger allocation policies. At the low level, we incorporate MAPPO-Lagrangian to learn decentralized charging power decisions under the Centralized Training and Decentralized Execution (CTDE) paradigm. Extensive experiments with real-world data demonstrate that the proposed approach outperforms existing baselines in both cost minimization and safety compliance, while maintaining fast convergence speed.

Jiaju Qi, Qihao Zhou, Lei Lei et al.

This paper presents a comprehensive survey of Federated Reinforcement Learning (FRL), an emerging and promising field in Reinforcement Learning (RL). Starting with a tutorial of Federated Learning (FL) and RL, we then focus on the introduction of FRL as a new method with great potential by leveraging the basic idea of FL to improve the performance of RL while preserving data-privacy. According to the distribution characteristics of the agents in the framework, FRL algorithms can be divided into two categories, i.e. Horizontal Federated Reinforcement Learning (HFRL) and Vertical Federated Reinforcement Learning (VFRL). We provide the detailed definitions of each category by formulas, investigate the evolution of FRL from a technical perspective, and highlight its advantages over previous RL algorithms. In addition, the existing works on FRL are summarized by application fields, including edge computing, communication, control optimization, and attack detection. Finally, we describe and discuss several key research directions that are crucial to solving the open problems within FRL.

Lei Lei, Yue Tan, Glenn Dahlenburg et al.

Microgrids (MGs) are small, local power grids that can operate independently from the larger utility grid. Combined with the Internet of Things (IoT), a smart MG can leverage the sensory data and machine learning techniques for intelligent energy management. This paper focuses on deep reinforcement learning (DRL)-based energy dispatch for IoT-driven smart isolated MGs with diesel generators (DGs), photovoltaic (PV) panels, and a battery. A finite-horizon Partial Observable Markov Decision Process (POMDP) model is formulated and solved by learning from historical data to capture the uncertainty in future electricity consumption and renewable power generation. In order to deal with the instability problem of DRL algorithms and unique characteristics of finite-horizon models, two novel DRL algorithms, namely, finite-horizon deep deterministic policy gradient (FH-DDPG) and finite-horizon recurrent deterministic policy gradient (FH-RDPG), are proposed to derive energy dispatch policies with and without fully observable state information. A case study using real isolated MG data is performed, where the performance of the proposed algorithms are compared with the other baseline DRL and non-DRL algorithms. Moreover, the impact of uncertainties on MG performance is decoupled into two levels and evaluated respectively.

Lei Lei, Yue Tan, Kan Zheng et al.

The Internet of Things (IoT) extends the Internet connectivity into billions of IoT devices around the world, where the IoT devices collect and share information to reflect status of the physical world. The Autonomous Control System (ACS), on the other hand, performs control functions on the physical systems without external intervention over an extended period of time. The integration of IoT and ACS results in a new concept - autonomous IoT (AIoT). The sensors collect information on the system status, based on which the intelligent agents in the IoT devices as well as the Edge/Fog/Cloud servers make control decisions for the actuators to react. In order to achieve autonomy, a promising method is for the intelligent agents to leverage the techniques in the field of artificial intelligence, especially reinforcement learning (RL) and deep reinforcement learning (DRL) for decision making. In this paper, we first provide a tutorial of DRL, and then propose a general model for the applications of RL/DRL in AIoT. Next, a comprehensive survey of the state-of-art research on DRL for AIoT is presented, where the existing works are classified and summarized under the umbrella of the proposed general DRL model. Finally, the challenges and open issues for future research are identified.

Lei Lei, Huijuan Xu, Xiong Xiong et al.

By leveraging the concept of mobile edge computing (MEC), massive amount of data generated by a large number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices could be offloaded to MEC server at the edge of wireless network for further computational intensive processing. However, due to the resource constraint of IoT devices and wireless network, both the communications and computation resources need to be allocated and scheduled efficiently for better system performance. In this paper, we propose a joint computation offloading and multi-user scheduling algorithm for IoT edge computing system to minimize the long-term average weighted sum of delay and power consumption under stochastic traffic arrival. We formulate the dynamic optimization problem as an infinite-horizon average-reward continuous-time Markov decision process (CTMDP) model. One critical challenge in solving this MDP problem for the multi-user resource control is the curse-of-dimensionality problem, where the state space of the MDP model and the computation complexity increase exponentially with the growing number of users or IoT devices. In order to overcome this challenge, we use the deep reinforcement learning (RL) techniques and propose a neural network architecture to approximate the value functions for the post-decision system states. The designed algorithm to solve the CTMDP problem supports semi-distributed auction-based implementation, where the IoT devices submit bids to the BS to make the resource control decisions centrally. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm provides significant performance improvement over the baseline algorithms, and also outperforms the RL algorithms based on other neural network architectures.