Alt-BEAM Archive
Message #02422
To: "'Dave Hrynkiw'" dave@solarbotics.com
From: Wilf Rigter Wilf.Rigter@powertech.bc.ca
Date: Sat, 17 Apr 1999 05:58:24 -0700
Subject: [alt-beam] Re: Beam genome
Hello Dave,
Thanks for reminding us that you think a "Beam genome" is too
esoteric and academic for the average readers on the list and is only of
interest to a handful of "advanced Beamers".
Mark Tilden is a serious scientist but some of _his_ "academic"
research has become quite accessible for the fun, profit and benefit of
hobbyists and suppliers like yourself.
> It doesn't matter if a genome would be possible, practical, or
appreciated.
As you say, for the Beam genome to "matter" it must not only be
possible, practical and appreciated but also FUN.
So rather than calling it "a waste of time" let's tell those
"advanced Beamers" to make this genome project practical, useful and
interesting but also fun and accessible for the majority of readers of this
list.
As usual there, are several distinctive projects being discussed
under the subject of Beam genome some more practical and others more
challenging but all potentially a lot of fun.
1. Beam History - a simple chronology of Beam type organisms -
Documents all those other famous names (including yourself) in a historical
context with M.Tilden. I'm pretty good at Beam circuit design but terrible
with names and can never remember who did what to whom and when. I would
like to credit people if I borrow from or "knock off" their design so you
can understand my selfish interest in this project.
2. Beam Genealogy - in addition to a time lime, add a dimension of
"relatedness" showing the "radiation" of Beam type organisms. The kingdoms,
families, species of Beam creatures. Make a nice wall chart I would say.
3. Beam Genome - A collection of "HEX TILE" like subsystems with
logical modularity and regular interconnections which fit together to form
Beam like organisms. Decomposes Beam like organisms to common mechanical and
electronic subsystems. The listing of motors, OTUs, heads, legs, arms,
sensors, Core circuits, triggers, threshold detectors, with pictures,
plans, schematics and a reference to their origins .
All the ingredients for a "MIND STORM" type of BEAM COOKBOOK.
(Can't wait make new creatures by plugging these things together on my work
bench).
4. Beam Metric - a way to define and test the performance (speed,
power, complex behaviours) of Beam like organisms. Should also include
definitions and tests for other parameters such as ease of construction,
robustness, modularity. The stuff of Beam Contest and Beam consumer
reports.
What do you think Dave? Sound like fun?
> I'd rather be at the workbench rather than developing
> classifications...
me too!
> ps: This isn't a slam/flamebait. Just voicing my opinion...
I know.
warmest regards
Wilf Rigter mailto:wilf.rigter@powertech.bc.ca
tel: (604)590-7493
fax: (604)590-3411
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