Observer network and forest fire detection

Future Generation Communication Environment (FGCA) is defined as advanced communication and networking environment where all applications and services are focused on users. In this paper an example of such an application is described where the “user” is the natural environment and the goal is the environment protection. An idea of observer network is introduced and described as an advanced communication, networking and processing framework for fusion and interpretation of information collected over sensor network having the main goal enhanced environment protection. The framework is inspired by formal theory of perception aimed for environmental intelligence implementation. Environmental intelligence is interpreted as a self-protecting feature of environment gained by integration of sensing devices into environment and appropriate fusion and interpretation of sensing data. Our particular case study was forest fire monitoring observer network. It was implemented as a multi agent system. The paper describes multi agent architecture and the principles of the agent ontology. The multi agent architecture gives the observer network additional flexibility and modularity. Although our case study was forest fire monitoring the same architecture could be used in detection of any kind of phenomenon required in environmental intelligence.