A Generic Model for State-based Agent Systems

This paper presents a framework for modelling state-based agent systems. Agents are state-based entities in a possibly distributed environment. We will in particular address problems that arise when aspects of locality and shared objects have to be dealt with. The Irish School of Constructive Mathematics CM♣ provides an algebraic framework based on group theory and recursion theory. Monoids are used to model the foundations of state-based systems: states and state change. It offers extensivemethodologicalmeans to develop and verify specifications of distributed, state-based systems. This paper is an investigation into structural and consistency aspects of dynamically evolving systems under consideration of locality and sharing. A model is presented which preserves the integrity of such systems by providing operators with appropriate algebraic properties.