My insect project is progressing well, thanks to the input of many of you! (See questionnaire last post).
Here's something that appeared in my inbox this morning. A swarm of robots behaving 'cooperatively'. In many ways it echoes the bee hive/ant nest cooperation and separation of roles that we find so intriguing when watching these creatures. In reality, studies suggest that each insect is probably quite simply 'programmed' to respond - I'm reluctant to use the term 'mindlessly' (because insects can learn) - to a stimulus. For example, in a flock, school or swarm, there is evidence that each creature is only taking notice of about seven others - the ones closest. And the incredible complex behaviour we see - twisting and turning, predator avoidance etc, is actually the result of a relatively small number of cause-and-effect behaviours.
Anyway, I thought this clip was worth sharing. Enjoy.
Source http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn20791?DCMP=NLC-nletter&nsref=robot
That was absolutely fascinating. I was mesmerised. I do miss your blog postings!
ReplyDeleteGood. Glad to mesmerise you Geeb :-D
ReplyDeleteScientific conclusions about insect life seem to be based on supposition more than evidence. Besides, you could say that human beings are also "quite simply programmed to respond"
ReplyDeleteIndeed YP. In fact, much of what scientists suppose about swarming behaviour is based on programming robots.
ReplyDeleteRe. humans, yep. See pub, go in, buy drink, see drink, consume. See ball, play rugby. See fat and salt, eat.
PS. Have you booked your flights yet?
ReplyDelete