Multi-Level Modeling of Multi-Mobile Agent Systems

Abstract

This chapter deals with the modelling of mobile agent systems evolving within structured environments using a multi-level Petri net based formalism, called n-LNS. In a n-LNS model the tokens of a net can be symbols or other nets allowing representing the behaviour of mobile entities. The chapter introduces the formal definition of n-LNS and its application to the modelling of various kinds of discrete event systems, namely batch manufacturing systems, mobile robot communities, urban traffic micro-simulation, and software agents for e-commerce. A case study is included regarding the coordination of an e-market place.