Distributed Discrete Event and Pseudo Real-Time Combined Simulation for Multi-Agent Controlled Power Plants

Development, testing, simulation, and validation of complex real-time distributed systems is a challenge on many levels. Designing multi-agent systems for power plant control can be approached numerous ways, but it is important to enhance the flow of development to implementation. Using new Distributed Real-time Agent Framework with Time-warp (DRAFT) agents can enhance the development of multi-agent systems. Discrete event simulation allows a fast as possible simulation and forces synchronization while guaranteeing all tasks are accomplished on time to assist with initial stages of development when it is more important to focus on larger design concepts. The DRAFT agents can switch over to standard operation and operate on psuedo real-time or real-time environments to further develop all aspects of a multi-agent system with real-time requirements. It also gives the agents self simulation capabilities that could be used to enhance overall functionality of the multi-agent system.