Spatial communication with maps: Defining the correctness of maps using a multi-agent simulation

Maps are very efficient to communicate spatial situations. A theoretical fr amework for a formal discussion of map production and map use is constructe d using a multi-agent framework. Multi-agent systems are computerized model s that simulate persons as autonomous agents in a simulated environment, wi th their simulated interaction. A model of the process of map production an d map use is constructed based on a two-tiered reality and beliefs model, i n which facts describing the simulated environment and the simulated agents ' beliefs of this environment are separated. This permits to model errors i n the persons' perception of reality. A computerized model was coded, including all operations: the observation o f reality by a person, the production of the map, the interpretation of the map by another person and his use of the knowledge acquired from the map f or navigation, are simulated as operations of agents in a simulated environ ment.