Using the BDI architecture to produce autonomous characters in virtual worlds

Abstract

In this paper, we propose the use of the Belief-Desire-Intention (BDI) model for cognitive agents for the implementation of animated characters. The BDI agent architecture has been widely used in dynamic and complex scenarios where agents may need to act under incomplete and incorrect information about other agents and the environment. In this work, we bring together an articulated model for character animation and an interpreter for AgentSpeak(L), an agent-oriented programming language that implements the BDI architecture. We have developed an interface that allows the BDI-based agent reasoning system to be used for guiding the behaviour of articulated characters in a virtual environment. This is a promising approach for the high-level specification of complex computer animations. The paper also presents a simple 3D animation that illustrates the use of BDI specifications in our approach.