AMPL : an exclusive technology for DecisionNet

Abstract

This thesis describes the design and implementation of an exclusive technology agent for DecisionNet -- a distributed decision support technology marketplace for the World Wide Web. Unlike the independent technologies presently supported by DecisionNet, exclusive technologies require software agents to facilitate interactions between their providers and consumers. The exclusive technology agent described herein would allow use of the AMPL mathematical modeling language through the DecisionNet environment and provide database support for AMPL objects. An AMPL agent for DecisionNet provides a searchable repository to facilitate sharing and reuse of AMPL objects. It also provides a means for clients to formulate and execute AMPL problems without having to purchase AMPL software or learn the AMPL language. The data structure described in this thesis has three distinct types of exclusive objects: model schema, dataset, and solver. A complete AMPL problem contains one object of each type. An AMPL agent assists DecisionNet technology providers in the registration, modification, and withdrawal of AMPL objects, and assists DecisionNet consumers in the selection and execution of AMPL problems.