Operational Semantic of an AgentSpeak(L) Interpreter using Late Bindings

Abstract

Although BDI systems have long been studied in the field of agent-based programming, there are still problems open for research. One problem is that some parts of systems are non-deterministic in the original specification. However, finding a suitable deterministic method can lead to improved rationality of an agent's behaviour. In our previous work, we introduced late binding into the interpretation of AgentSpeak(L) language. The main benefit of this approach is that the interpreter chooses substitutions only when needed, thus avoiding unnecessary and incorrect substitution selection. In this paper, we present a formal operational semantics for an interpreter using late binding variables. A well-specified operational semantics is necessary for the implementation of such an interpreter and its further developmentAlthough BDI systems have long been studied in the field of agent-based programming, there are still problems open for research. One problem is that some parts of systems are non-deterministic in the original specification. However, finding a suitable deterministic method can lead to improved rationality of an agent's behaviour. In our previous work, we introduced late binding into the interpretation of AgentSpeak(L) language. The main benefit of this approach is that the interpreter chooses substitutions only when needed, thus avoiding unnecessary and incorrect substitution selection. In this paper, we present a formal operational semantics for an interpreter using late binding variables. A well-specified operational semantics is necessary for the implementation of such an interpreter and its further development