Abstract
We present a formal framework that uses the π-calculus for modeling multiagent systems. A process algebra in general is a term algebra used as an abstract programming language that stresses the composition of processes by a small set of process operators. The π-calculus in particular allows one to express systems of processes that have changing communication structure. We explicate the agent abstraction as a π-calculus process that persists through communication actions. Our principal task here is to show how the π-calculus can be used to model certain aspects that have already been specified for a major multiagent system. We also sketch how a π-calculus framework supports development activities in this context, and we suggest how various general aspects of multiagent systems may be modeled in this framework.
This research was supported by grant NAG 5-4102, ”Formal Foundations of Agents,” from NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. Special thanks are due to the Goddard personnel, especially Walt Truszkowski.
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Esterline, A.C., Rorie, T. (2001). Using the π-Calculus to Model Multiagent Systems. In: Rash, J.L., Truszkowski, W., Hinchey, M.G., Rouff, C.A., Gordon, D. (eds) Formal Approaches to Agent-Based Systems. FAABS 2000. Lecture Notes in Computer Science(), vol 1871. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/3-540-45484-5_14
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/3-540-45484-5_14
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