Flexible Multi-Agent Protocols

In this paper we define a novel technique for the specification of agent protocols in Multi-Agent-Systems. This technique addresses a number of shortcomings of previous Electronic Institution based specifications. In particular, we relax the static specification of agent protocols as state-based diagrams and allow protocols to be defined and disseminated in a flexible manner during agent interaction. Our flexible specification is derived from process algebra and thus forms a sound basis for the verification of such systems.

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