Author(s)

D.C. Brown, B.V. Dunskus, D.L. Grecu & I. Berker

Abstract

SINE: support for single function agents D.C. Brown, B.V. Dunskus, D.L. Grecu, I. Berker Computer Science Department, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA 1.0 Introduction Our premise is that Design Expert Systems can be built using many small, cooperating, limited function expert systems, called Single Function Agents (SiFAs). We expect to be able to investigate and discover specific design-related primitive problem-solving and interaction patterns. The approach should also lead to a deeper understanding of the types of knowledge involved. In contrast to other multi-agent approaches, which are based on powerful agents with rela- tively unconstrained functionality and knowledge, we try to start with elemen- tary components and add structure and functionality as necessary. The research goals are: Definition of a Domain Independent Set of Agents; Investigation of Agent Negotiation for Conflict Resolution; Analysis of Com- munication Patterns between

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