Framework for Integrated Use of Agent-Based and Ambient-Oriented Modeling

Abstract

Agent-based modeling (ABM) is a flexible and simulation-friendly modeling approach. Ambient-oriented modeling is effective for systems containing ambient and spatial representations. In this paper we propose a framework for the integrated use of agent-based modeling and ambient-oriented modeling. We analyze both agents and ambient in detail. We also compare both modeling approaches as well and analyze their similarities and differences. The integrated implementation provides a new link between mathematical modeling and simulations. The model developed using this framework has four parts. The first part constitutes the identification, definition, and relations of agents. In this part, we use agent-based modeling along with the concepts of discrete-event simulations and system dynamics. The second part of the model is the mathematical representation of the relations of agents, i.e., the parent and child relation of agents. The third part of the model is the representation of the messages along with relational symbols where we utilize the concepts and symbols of relations and messages from ambient-oriented modeling. The fourth and final part of the model is the simulation, where we describe the rules that govern the processes represented in first two parts. The framework is helpful in overcoming certain limitations of both approaches. Moreover, we provide a scenario of a bus rapid transit system (BRTS) as a proof of concept, and we examine the generic concept of BRTSs using the proposed framework.