Cooperative problem solving in diagnostic agents for chemical processes

In this paper we introduce an agent-based framework for the diagnosis of ch emical processes, based on spatially distributed diagnosis architecture. Al though the suggested multi-agent diagnostic system uses only the informatio n about process topology and control structure, making the most of local in formation produces global diagnostic solution. A function-behavior model is also suggested to make possible the collaborative problem solving in chemi cal process fault diagnosis. To demonstrate the benefits of the suggested c ollaborative problem solving approach, we solve the diagnostic problem of a stirred-tank reactor system with recycle. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. A ll rights reserved.