Towards a model for ubiquitous and mobile computing

The current technological trend depicts a scenario in which space and movement represent aspects that should be considered as first class concepts. Models and conceptualizations are necessary to understand and design ubiquitous systems that are context-aware not just from a technological point of view. The aim of this paper is propose the Multilayered Multi Agent Situated System (MMASS) model (which provides an interaction model that is strongly dependant on the spatial structure of the environment) as a conceptual architecture for ubiquitous computing applications. The main contribution of this modelling approach to this domain is to provide a conceptual tool that allows to manage space as a first class concept and to consider in a uniform way both physical and logical spaces. After a brief presentation of the MMASS model, a sample application domain will illustrate how the model can be adopted to specify different aspects that are involved in a ubiquitous system.