Norm-aware agents for ad hoc networks: A position paper

Abstract

Abstract. A norm-governed, agent-based approach is proposed as a key technology for operating Ad Hoc networks, both as the logical platform for ubiquitous computing applications and as the physical platform for ubiquitous computing environments. Of the many issues raised by such a proposal, three are: what kind of cognitive capability the agents require, what kind of social and regulatory organisation is expected; and what kind of coordination mechanism is appropriate. This position statement explores the requirements of agents with respect to these issues: the architecture for ‘cognitive ’ software agents, the communication protocols for coordination, and the management languages for social regulation. Through this review, we aim to open up important theoretical and practical issues in the design and construction of intelligent software agents as components of Ad Hoc networks for/in ubiquitous computing.