Smart Edges 71
The distributed problem-solving approach is based on a radicallydifferent idea: that of the appearance of configurations as stable or
steady states of a dynamic system, whose evolution is due to
interactions stemming from the behaviors of small, fairly simple
agents.
In conventional systems, all the data are contained in the statement,
with the system bound to find how to pass from the initial
configuration to the final state. On the contrary, with the phenomenon
of eco-resolution, the determination is purely local. The agents are
characterized by behaviors of satisfaction, attack and retreat. The
problem itself is defined by a population of autonomous agents, all
seeking satisfaction. The final result is the consequence of a nondeterministic interaction. The model defines the combination of
behaviors.
In conclusion to this section, we can argue that the study of
learning, real-time operations or distribution, corresponds to a need in
the area of network management. However, it is the last point which
seems to hold the greatest interest, in that multi-agent systems, in a
manner of speaking, constitute a generalization of the techniques of
expert systems. Thus, they provide added value to conventional AI
systems by offering a new type of architecture, involving
communication as well as internal reasoning. The aspects of opening
and distribution make them interesting for a network management
system.
As regards the real-time aspect, the approach adopted by AI seems
less clear. Nevertheless, it is a crucial step in the design of a network
administration system. Indeed, the response times (to a failure, for
example) must be as short as possible, although this criterion is not as
important here as it is in decision-support or command-support
systems.
Learning remains the Achilles’ heel of knowledge-based systems.
As long as these systems are unable to improve, expand and refine
their knowledge on the basis of their own experience, they will be
dependent upon the goodwill and availability of experts and the
quality of a manual update.
www.it-ebooks.info
The distributed problem-solving approach is based on a radicallydifferent idea: that of the appearance of configurations as stable or
steady states of a dynamic system, whose evolution is due to
interactions stemming from the behaviors of small, fairly simple
agents.
In conventional systems, all the data are contained in the statement,
with the system bound to find how to pass from the initial
configuration to the final state. On the contrary, with the phenomenon
of eco-resolution, the determination is purely local. The agents are
characterized by behaviors of satisfaction, attack and retreat. The
problem itself is defined by a population of autonomous agents, all
seeking satisfaction. The final result is the consequence of a nondeterministic interaction. The model defines the combination of
behaviors.
In conclusion to this section, we can argue that the study of
learning, real-time operations or distribution, corresponds to a need in
the area of network management. However, it is the last point which
seems to hold the greatest interest, in that multi-agent systems, in a
manner of speaking, constitute a generalization of the techniques of
expert systems. Thus, they provide added value to conventional AI
systems by offering a new type of architecture, involving
communication as well as internal reasoning. The aspects of opening
and distribution make them interesting for a network management
system.
As regards the real-time aspect, the approach adopted by AI seems
less clear. Nevertheless, it is a crucial step in the design of a network
administration system. Indeed, the response times (to a failure, for
example) must be as short as possible, although this criterion is not as
important here as it is in decision-support or command-support
systems.
Learning remains the Achilles’ heel of knowledge-based systems.
As long as these systems are unable to improve, expand and refine
their knowledge on the basis of their own experience, they will be
dependent upon the goodwill and availability of experts and the
quality of a manual update.
www.it-ebooks.info