Development of multi-agent control systems using UML/SysML

The object-oriented methodology is insufficient for developing agent-based control systems because it can not naturally represent the essential characteristics of agents, such as autonomous behavior, temporal continuity and cooperativety. The approach presented in this paper aims to extends UML for development agent-based control systems based on its profile for system engineering - SysML, the upcoming standard for distributed control systems IEC61499 and the unified FIPA communication protocols. The new approach is demonstrated with a case study of FESTO distribution station.