An Autonomous Adaptive Multiagent Model for Building Automation

A layered multiagent model is presented for the management of buildings by utilizing agent capabilities (i.e. reactive, proactive and adaptive behaviour) at various levels of automation within a building (i.e. at the physical, reactive, planning and adaptive level). A framework for the application of the model is also described, employing three different types of agents within a building: personal agents, building agents and a facilitator, which is mediating between the former agents to satisfy the needs of their human owners. Although the agents have different tasks and complexity, it is demonstrated that the presented model can be used for each of the various agents in a unified manner by taking advantage of the modularity of the model. An example application shows how the proposed agent typology can be applied to building automation so that both real-time tasks (e.g. negotiating the temperature of a room) and planning tasks (e.g. booking and customizing a room including a fee for service) can be realized.