Object based distributed data sharing in multi-agent environment

This paper describes a framework which enables distributed object sharing in a multi agent environment. Shared objects are replicated across nodes in the distributed environment so that agents access a local copy rather than a remote one, thus minimizing network traffic. The framework solves issues related to replica coherence, consistency and management. Shared objects are serializable Java objects supported with the multiple reader single writer (MRSW) access model. The framework includes components that act local servers for dynamic object ownership and a system coordinator for managing and monitoring the system, taking solution oriented responsibilities for unwanted/unexpected situations. An interface is provided to enable users to use simple object access methods in a completely transparent manner. Object access requests can be monitored through predefined graphical user interfaces. The system assigns unique identifiers for each access request, thus access calls can be carried out in parallel.