α^0 system layer makes Alvis a universal formal modelling language similar to Petri nets or process algebras. The α^0 system layer scheduler is based on the following assumptions.

1. Each active agent has access to its own processor and performs its statements as soon as possible.
2. In case of conflicts, agents priorities are taken under consideration. If two or more agents with the same highest priority compete for the same resources, the system works indeterministically.

A conflict is a state when two or more active agents try to call a procedure of the same passive agent or two or more active agents try to communicate with the same active agent.

The α^0 system layer is the most suitable one for distributed systems. In such a case, each agent is an autonomous system with its own processor.

Go back