Virtual Space Ontologies for Scripting Agents

Abstract. Interactive multi-agent system improves reusability of agents by separating application design from agent design. However, it remains difficult for application designers (usually non-computer professionals) to script massive multi-agents. This is especially true for scripting hundreds of NPCs (Non Player Characters, agents) hosted by hostile, dynamic and complex 3D (threedimensional) environments in military simulation. Out of perspective of interaction between agents and environments, namely virtual spaces, we introduce virtual space ontologies to facilitate interaction between humans and agents. Three advantages are obtained by using virtual space ontologies: 1) A hybrid approach of integrating qualitative and quantitative spatial reasoning is achieved so that application designers can specify arguments of actions (scenario primitives) qualitatively. 2) Primitive actions of agents are abstracted hierarchically so that application designers can sketch scenarios for units of agents. 3) Better intent communication between humans and agents is realized so that application users can control agents easily in real time