We-Plan: A Mixed-Initiative, Distributed, Simultaneous Planning Framework

The two main issues presented in this topic include the selection/generation of a suitable plan representation and the subsequent mixed-imitative distributed simultaneous planning and extended problem solving capabilities in network-centric environments. Our proposed solution is an innovative framework, We-Plan: a mixed-initiative, distributed, simultaneous planning framework employing web of expertise in net-centric environments. We-Plan includes: (1) an integrated architecture employing various inter-connected constituent components, e.g., problem specification, situational assessment, problem decomposition, sub-problem distribution, planning, resource allocation, scheduling, execution monitoring, and validation, (2) an investigation of the crosscutting technologies (e.g., mixed-initiative, plan representation) for the underlying algorithms, the information flow and control flow, and the communication interface and protocols among the components, and (3) the design of a suitable scenario for We-Plan to demonstrate proof-of-feasibility of key enabling concepts in reasonable simulations/experiments with suitable performance criteria and metrics. We will explore the connection of We-Plan with the funding agency’s existing technologies/programs to achieve the openness, generality and interoperability of the proposed technology. BENEFIT: The anticipated Phase I results will provide a suitable plan representation, an innovative We-Plan (a mixed-initiative, distributed, simultaneous planning framework employing web of expertise in net-centric environments) framework and the associated algorithms/mechanisms. This project addresses a huge market with the following characteristics: distributed simultaneous collaborative problem solving (planning) involving multiple agents (humans and machines) in time critical response processes. The functionalities of We-Plan could be componentized, possibly as plug-ins, and ported to many various domains and existing systems. We have identified initial transition paths for Phase I, II and further stages. The immediate (human) users of We-Plan could be commanders, military planners, and IT personnel. The immediate customers may include AFRL Cyber defense, DARPA Deep Green and Coordinators and Army Tactical Operation Center, whose ongoing programs could employ We-Plan or selected functionalities as a subcomponent. A broader customer base includes the government agencies, e.g., AFRL DMOs, Navy MIOs, and MDA C2BMC of BMDS. Potential customers in commercial domains may include IT Emergency Management Service, Air traffic control, civilian planning for police and fire activities, homeland security, FEMA emergency/disaster response and management.