An HLA-based multiagent system for optimized resource allocation after strong earthquakes

In this paper the author presents a distributed simulation system for disaster response activities based on the High Level Architecture (HLA). This simulation system focuses on resource management issues including the allocation of scarce response resources to operational areas and it consists of three major components: (1) simulators for the disaster environment, e.g., simulators for damages, casualties and fire spread, (2) simulators for the operations of personnel and technical equipment and (3) some auxiliary simulators. A Multiagent System which models resource allocation tasks within an Emergency Operation Center (EOC) is linked to this simulation. This paper describes the overall architecture of the system and presents some results based on a prototype implementation.