Distributed Gradient Tracking Methods with Guarantees for Computing a Solution to Stochastic MPECs

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

We consider a class of hierarchical multi-agent optimization problems over networks where agents seek to compute an approximate solution to a single-stage stochastic mathematical program with equilibrium constraints (MPEC). MPECs subsume several important problem classes including Stackelberg games, bilevel programs, and traffic equilibrium problems, to name a few. Our goal in this work is to provably resolve stochastic MPECs in distributed regimes where the agents only have access to their local objectives and an inexact best-response to the lower-level equilibrium problem. To this end, we devise a new method called randomized smoothed distributed zeroth-order gradient tracking (rs-DZGT). This is a novel gradient tracking scheme where agents employ a zeroth-order implicit scheme to approximate their (unavailable) local gradients. Leveraging the properties of a randomized smoothing technique, we establish the convergence of the method and derive complexity guarantees for computing a stationary point of an optimization problem with a smoothed implicit global objective. We also provide preliminary numerical experiments where we compare the performance of rs-DZGT on networks under different settings with that of its centralized counterpart.

Original languageAmerican English
Title of host publication2024 American Control Conference, ACC 2024
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Pages2182-2187
Number of pages6
ISBN (Electronic)9798350382655
DOIs
StatePublished - 2024
Event2024 American Control Conference, ACC 2024 - Toronto, Canada
Duration: Jul 10 2024Jul 12 2024

Publication series

NameProceedings of the American Control Conference

Conference

Conference2024 American Control Conference, ACC 2024
Country/TerritoryCanada
CityToronto
Period7/10/247/12/24

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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