WK2: Theme Exploration - Research

Research conducted regarding the theme of focus, Swarm Theory has mostly been based upon the variables which define the behaviour and thus form of a swarm. Through which I hope to be able to create a system which uses such variables to define a unique geometrical form evocative of swarm theory.

Conclusions –

According to the C.R. Model, the following variables regarding Swarm form, influence on such are individually weighted –

- An agent’s velocity in relation to another neighbouring agent. Thus intention to match that of the other agents.
- An agent’s location in relation to another neighbouring agent within a pre-defined area. Thus a defined minimum distance.
- A key agent’s relation to the centre of the pre-defined area.
- Density of agent’s within defined space.
- Random external variable, hence a target location.

Through an analysis of self-organising agents, we conclude various natural occurrences –

- A low density swarm mass will see the individual agents swarm a central point, without that point moving.
- A high density swarm mass will see the individual agents move in common direction at a common velocity.

Sources:

J. Boyd, G. Hushlak, C. Jacob, ‘Swarm Art: Interactive art from swarm intelligence’, pp. 628-35 (Unknown Journal).
L. Spector, J. Klein, ‘Evolutionary dynamics discovered via visualization in the breve simulation environment’, pp. 163-170 (Alife VIII: Workshop Proceedings).

J. Klein, ‘Breve: a 3D environment for the simulation of decentralized systems and artificial life’ (Dep. Physical Resource Theory, Chalmers University of Technology and Goteborg University).

H. Kwong, C. Jacob,’ Evolutionary exploration of dynamic swarm behaviour’, pp. 367-74 (2003, IEEE).

J. Gautrais, C. Jost, G. Theraulaz, ‘Key behavioural factors in a self-organised fish school model’, pp. 415.428 (Ann. Zool. Fennici 45).

J. Klein, ‘Continuous 3D agent based simulation in the breve simulation environment’, (Unknown Journal).

B. Garrett, M. Annunziato, A. Pannicelli, C. Liberto, ‘Modelling crowd motion using swarm heuristics and predictive agents’, (Unknown Journal).