Using the active object model to implement multi-agent systems

The authors discuss the implementation and run-time support for multi-agent systems (MAS). They start presenting MAS in the context of open distributed processing (ODP). Next, a model of a cognitive agent being currently developed at LIFIA is detailed. Taking this model as reference, the authors examine alternatives for supporting cognitive agents in distributed and heterogeneous environments. Finally, a distributed processing tool developed by the authors is presented. This tool follows the active object model and it is shown that active object and agent are strongly related concepts