Multi-agent modelling and simulation of graph-based predator–prey dynamic systems: A BDI approach

Abstract

© 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. We propose a new framework based on Belief-Desire-Intention multi-agent systems for the macroscopic modelling and simulation of continuous dynamic systems. The main idea is to break down the target system model into a collection of autonomous and loosely coupled interacting components endowed with clean message-based interfaces and local intelligence. Each component is then mapped to a Belief-Desire-Intention agent that captures its state as a set of logical facts and its behavioural patterns as a set of plans. The system model can be described as a multi-agent programme that is specified using the state-of-the-art Jason agent-oriented programming language. The approach is evaluated by considering a generalized graph-based model of predator–prey systems. Our approach supports the configuration of the multi-agent model with various differential equations integration methods, as required by the specific problem.