NorMAS-ML: Supporting the Modeling of Normative Multi-agent Systems

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ISSN online: 2255-2863

Prefijo Doi: 10.14201

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Emmanuel Savio Silva Freire
IFCE
Brazil
Mariela Inés Cortés
UECE
Brazil
Robert Marinho Da Rocha Júnior
UECE
Brazil
Ênyo José Tavares Gonçalves
UFC
Brazil
Gustavo Augusto Campos De Lima
UECE
Brazil
Vol. 8 No. 4 (2019), Articles, pages 49-81
DOI: https://doi.org/10.14201/ADCAIJ2019844981
Accepted: Apr 14, 2020
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Abstract

Context: A normative multi-agent system (NMAS) is composed of agents that their behavior is regulated by norms. The modeling of those elements (agents and norms) together at design time can be a good way for a complete understanding of their structure and behavior. Multi-agent system modeling language (MAS-ML) supports the representation of NMAS entities, but the support for concepts related to norms is somewhat limited. MAS-ML is founded in taming agents and objects (TAO) framework and has a support tool called the MAS-ML tool. Goal: The present work aims to present a UML-based modeling language called normative multi-agent system (NorMAS-ML) able to model the MAS main entities along with the static normative elements. Method: We extend the TAO adding normative concepts and spread out those concepts in two syntaxes of MAS-ML. Either abstract, adding or updating metaclasses and stereotypes or concrete, defining new graphic elements for representing the elements defined in the abstract syntax. Besides, we evolve the MAS-ML tool, considering the extension of MAS-ML by the model-driven approach. Results: NorMAS-ML, the new version of MAS-ML, allows a complete view of NMAS entities and has a support tool called NorMAS-ML tool. Beyond the definition of NorMAS-ML and its tool, we generate a new static diagram called “norm diagram” supported by the NorMAS-ML tool. In order to illustrate the syntax of NorMAS-ML, the entities of a conference management system and its norms are modeled jointly. Conclusion: NorMAS-ML can help software designers (i) to understand the properties and behavior of NMAS entities and (ii) to provide a software modeling following the stakeholders’ need and less complex for the development phase.

Keywords:

Normative Multi-agent System, Norms, Modeling Language, NorMAS-ML

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