PECS: A Reference Model for the Simulation of Multi-Agent Systems

Abstract

In recent years autonomous agents have significantly gained in importance for the modelling of human behaviour. With this development a need for adequate design methodologies for complex agents emerges which are capable of modelling essential characteristics of human beings in connection with their decision making and behaviour control. In this article the PECS reference model for the construction of human- like modelling agents is introduced which enables an integrative of physical, emotional, cognitive and social influences within a component-oriented agent architecture. Furthermore the case study Learning Group is introduced which demonstrates the practical application of the design methodology and is intended to model basic social psychological mechanisms in the context of group formation and disbandment. Introduction