Combining PDEVS and Modelica for describing agent-based models

Abstract

Modelica is a general-purpose modeling language mainly designed to facilitate the development, reusability and exchange of models. It represents the state-of-the-art in equation-based modeling of continuous-time systems. Modelica libraries facilitate the description of multi-formalism and multi-domain models. However, the description of agent-based models (ABMs) in Modelica is not currently supported, mainly due to the characteristics of the language and its simulation algorithm. The combination of ABMs with continuous-time equations provides a powerful tool for describing and analyzing complex systems. An approach for describing ABMs using the Modelica language is presented in this manuscript, with the objective of facilitating the combination of ABMs with the rest of Modelica functionality. Agent behavior is described using a process-oriented modeling approach. Agents are described as individual entities that move across a flowchart diagram, that represents the processes that agents undergo. Processes are formally described using the Parallel DEVS formalism, extended to describe the interface with other Modelica models. The environment where agents interact is described as a cellular automaton. This approach has been implemented in a free Modelica library, named ABMLib. Three case studies are discussed to illustrate the modeling functionality of the library and its combination with other models: a basic traffic model, a sheep–wolves predator–prey model and a consumer market model.

Discrete-event simulation of continuous-time systems: evolution and state of the art of quantized state system methods

“…This exploration can be simplified by taking into account that these models can be expressed in terms of the Modelica language. 67,83…”

Comparing the Complexity and Efficiency of Composable Modeling Techniques for Multi-Scale and Multi-Domain Complex System Modeling and Simulation Applications: A Probabilistic Analysis

“…Ref. [49] developed a Parallel DEVS formalism for describing ABMs, specifically to facilitate the inclusion of ABMs into the Modelica modeling environment, which was previously not supported. Modelica is a general-purpose modeling language intended to enable reusability of models of physical systems [50].…”

Theory and foundations of modeling and simulation

“…Through a case study, they illustrate how to use the proposed formalism for defining models and how the co-simulation of these models enhances reusability. Sanz and Urquia 8 implemented a library called ABMLib for describing ABMs using the Modelica language. ABMs defined using this library can be combined with other models described using the rest of Modelica functionality, enhancing model reusability.…”