Using agent technology to build a real-world training application

Using staff personnel for playing roles in simulation-based training (e.g. team mates, adversaries) elevates costs, and imposes organizational constraints on delivery of training. One solution to this problem is to use intelligent software agents that play the required roles autonomously. BDI modeling is considered fruitful for developing such agents, but have been investigated typically in toy-worlds only. We present the use of BDI agents in training a complex real-world task: on-board fire fighting. In a desktop simulation, the trainee controls the virtual character of the commanding officer. BDI-agents are developed to generate the behavior of all other officers involved. Additionally, agents are implemented to manage the information flow between the agents and the simulation, to control the scenario, and to tutor the trainee. In this paper we describe the design of the application, the functional and technical requirements, and our experiences during implementation. © 2011 Springer-Verlag