Multiagent cooperation for solving global optimization problems: an extendible framework with example cooperation strategies

This paper proposes the use of multiagent cooperation for solving global optimization problems through the introduction of a new multiagent environment, MANGO. The strength of the environment lays in itsflexible structure based on communicating software agents that attempt to solve a problem cooperatively. This structure allows the execution of a wide range of global optimization algorithms described as a set of interacting operations. At one extreme, MANGO welcomes an individual non-cooperating agent, which is basically the traditional way of solving a global optimization problem. At the other extreme, autonomous agents existing in the environment cooperate as they see fit during run time. We explain the development and communication tools provided in the environment as well as examples of agent realizations and cooperation scenarios. We also show how the multiagent structure is more effective than having a single nonlinear optimization algorithm with randomly selected initial points

Exploiting Social Commitments in Programming Agent Interaction

Abstract. Modeling and regulating interactions among agents is a crit-ical step in the development of Multiagent Systems (MASs). Some re-cent works assume a normative view, and suggest to model interaction protocols in terms of obligations. In this paper we propose to model in-teraction protocols in terms of goals and commitments, and show how such a formalization promotes a deliberative process inside the agents. The proposal is implemented via JaCaMo+, an extension of JaCaMo, in which Jason agents can interact, while preserving their deliberative ca-pabilities, by exploiting commitment-based protocols, reified by special CArtAgO artifacts

Programming JADE and Jason Agents Based on Social Relationships Using a Uniform Approach

Abstract. Interaction is an essential feature in multiagent systems. De-sign primitives are needed to explicitly model desired patterns. This work presents 2COMM as a framework for defining social relations among parties, represented by social commitments. Starting from the definition of interaction protocols, 2COMM allows to decouple interaction design from agent design. Currently, adapters were developed for allowing the use of 2COMM with the JADE and the JaCaMo platforms. We show how agents for the two platforms can be implemented by relying on a common programming schema

Trustworthy Software Development

Part 4: KeynotesInternational audienceThis paper presents an overview on how existing development methodologies and practices support the creation of trustworthy software. Trustworthy software is key for a successful and trusted usage of software, specifically in the Cloud. To better understand what trustworthy software applications actually mean, the concepts of trustworthiness and trust are defined and put in contrast to each other. Furthermore, we identify attributes of software applications that support trustworthiness. Based on this groundwork, some well-known software development methodologies and best practices are analyzed with respect on how they support the systematic engineering of trustworthy software. Finally, the state of the art is discussed in a qualitative way, and an outlook on necessary research efforts and technological innovations is given

Ontology and time evolution of obligations and prohibitions using semantic web technology

Abstract. The specification and monitoring of conditional obligations and prohibitions with starting points and deadlines is a crucial aspect in the design of open interaction systems. In this paper we regard such obligations and prohibitions as cases of social commitment, and propose to model them in OWL, the logical language recommended by the W3C for Semantic Web applications. In particular we propose an application-independent ontology of the notions of social commitment, temporal proposition, event, agent, role and norms that can be used in the specification of any open interaction system. We then delineate a hybrid solution that uses the ontology, SWRL rules, and a Java program to dynamically monitor or simulate the temporal evolution of social commitments, due to the elapsing of time and to the actions performed by the agents interacting within the system.

Reasoning about exceptions to contracts

We show an application of Assumption-Based Argumentation for reasoning about and handling exceptions in multiagent contracts. We show that this solution enjoys interesting properties regarding the ABA semantics of results obtained and the determinism of diagnostic answers. As a case study, we present the workings of the framework on a delivery process from e-commerce