Research and Development in Expert Systems IX

Abstract

We describe a method for Multi-Agent System design which is assisted by two original typologies, resulting from the deeper study of knowledge and reasoning. The first typology reflects a formal character while the second reflects a technological character. The purpose of the Formal Typology is the classification and structuring of knowledge and reasoning. The Technological Typology handles the parameters governing the reasoning intrinsic to Multi-Agent technology, not only at the individual level of the agent but also within a group of agents. Possible correspondence between both of these typologies will become concrete by the presentation of the Multi-Agent generator MAPS (Multi-Agent Problem Solver), and the Multi-Agent system KIDS (Knowledge based Image Diagnosis System) devoted to Biomedical Image Interpretation.

Keywords

Second Generation Expert Systems, Multi-Agent System Design, Distributed Artificial Intelligence, Knowledge and Reasoning Modeling, Control, Biomedical Image Interpretation.

INTRODUCTION

Among knowledge based systems using artificial intelligence techniques we are particularly interested in the Multi-Agent systems which arise from their second generation (systems using multiple reasoning schemes). The Multi-Agent paradigm results from distributed artificial intelligence approaches and makes it possible to overcome the drawbacks encountered during the resolution of complex problems. The main issue of the Multi-Agent approach involves the distribution of tasks and skills among intelligent entities that co-operate, pooling their knowledge and their expertise to attain an aim (Ferber 88). In this way, not only a multi-modal knowledge representation, and reasoning schemes handling are permitted but also, co-operative problem solving.