Using intelligent agent templates for dynamic structuring of distributed computer control systems

Abstract The development and implementation of a distributed computer control system that uses communication both for structuring and for knowledge and information transfer between agents is described. The agent-centered approach relies on the use of agent templates and interaction rules. This approach results in a distributed computer control system that adapts to changes in operating requirements, and provides improved fault-tolerance over less adaptive distributed controllers. The implemented distributed controller simulates a simple conventional controller, and is used to demonstrate the effect of the approach on system performance. Processor loading and network traffic due to dynamic distributed structuring are shown to be minimal.