Space models and agent-based universe architectures

Abstract

This paper deals with representation of physical environnement in multi-agent simulators. We introduce the notion of model of space, defined as the computational structure which translates the spatial relations that exists between the simulated movings entities and which controls the dynamics of these relations. The discussion analyses the wide diversity of solutions actually adopted in simulators and classifies these various solutions in two main types of models. Then the paper comments on how these models should be integrated in the computer architecture of multi-agent simulators, as an independtly programmed toolbox.