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MULTI-HOP DYNAMIC ROUTING AD-HOC NETWORK
[w004] workshop facilitated by Katherine Moriwaki

Networks and Telecommunications Research Group
Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering
University of Dublin, Trinity College
Contact: Katherine Moriwaki – kaki@kakirine.com

Workshop Duration: 4 hours (during the RAM5 – 2,5 h)

Number of participants: 10-15 people

Workshop Description:
This workshop examines conceptual and technical models of multi-hop dynamic routing ad-hoc networks. Using participatory design approaches and experience design techniques we will explore artistic and playful responses to emerging telecommunications infrastructure. The project, 'Oscillating Windows' is used as a context for the workshop activities.
There are four parts to the workshop. The first part simulates a multi-hop dynamic routing ad-hoc network as a set of physical instructions based on simple rule-sets. People "play act" as nodes of a network (which builds on a core concept of ad-hoc networking, where people literally 'are' the network when equipped with small wireless communication devices such as handheld PDA's.)
Following this activity, we discuss multi-hop dynamic routing ad-hoc networking concepts as they relate to the previous physical exercise, and distinguish the technology from other types of wireless network infrastructures to promote understanding and to raise awareness of the unique opportunity for research and creative practice these types of networks afford. The third part of the workshop is a participatory design test of the 'Oscillating Windows' prototype, which allows for basic customization of certain network communications parameters. This allows participants to experiment with a working multi-hop dynamic routing ad-hoc network, and to highlight any emergent uses or desired functionality of the system. To conclude the workshop we gather feedback and discuss possibilities for further collaboration and development.

Workshop Motivation:
Multi-hop dynamic routing ad-hoc networks provide a compelling and emerging area of telecommunications which have yet to be fully explored. Engineering and computer science applications remain staunchly focused on emergency or military applications of this emerging technology, and have yet to expand to encompass the playful or artistic element of human experience. At the NTRG we believe that artists and design practitioners can be central to the development of networking systems, providing new challenges and creative responses to technology. In exploring the gulf of execution between existing network applications and artistic practitioners’ desires we can begin exploring new possibilities for the design and implementation of emerging network infrastructures. We want to collaboratively explore the language and models of networks in a hands-on, practice-based environment and contribute to a conceptual foundation upon which new applications and practices can emerge.

Key research questions:
- Differences between the design model and conceptual model of multi-hop dynamic
routing ad-hoc networks
- New applications/requirements of multi-hop dynamic routing ad-hoc networks
- Phenomenological experience of network systems
- Proxemics and social behavior in public space

Workshop Outline:
Part 1: Network Role Play

Materials: Paper
This is an experience design activity where people physically simulate the behavior of a multi-hop dynamic routing ad-hoc network. Simple behavioral rule sets - such as how to pass information, radio range, and data transfer - are assigned to the participants who must then creatively negotiate around various protocols in order to communicate through the network. The intent is to highlight the differences between conceptual models of face to face, and human-centered communication protocols, and the architectural constructs of network communications models. It is also a means for artists to engage directly in a proposed network application while also bringing awareness to the psychological, emotional, and behavioral conditions that might influence new possibilities or conceptualizations of how networks should work.

Part 2: Multi-hop Dynamic Routing Ad-hoc Concepts
Materials: none
Using the previous physical activity as a starting point, we will engage in a discussion about multihop dynamic routing ad-hoc networks. There is a conf usion of terms when it comes to ad-hoc networking, with the term “ad-hoc” often referring to many different technologies. Though there are issues of interest within all forms of mobile and wireless networking, the workshop specifically explores multi-hop dynamic routing ad -hoc networks. As a disruptive technology, we believe multi-hop dynamic routing systems can provide radical insight into existing decentralized systems and draw awareness to human creative potential when deployed ‘in the wild’. We also believe multi-hop dynamic routing systems offer unique and currently untapped creative opportunities. In this section of the workshop we share various conceptual aspects of multi-hop dynamic routing systems in a participatory and interactive discussion, encouraging understanding of both the human centered conceptual models and technical architecture these networks create in order to enable the development of shared foundations in skill sets and competencies between artists and technologists.

Part 3: Oscillating Windows
Materials: Handheld PDA’s, 2 laptop computers, NTRG ad hoc platform, Oscillating Windows application software – provided by NTRG
OPTIONAL: 2 projectors – not provided by NTRG
In this part of the workshop we build on the previous exercise and discussion by presenting a working prototype of a multi-hop dynamic routing ad-hoc network. Oscillating Windows is a research project of the Disruptive Design Team at the NTRG. The project explores public space, proxemics, and the influence of network awareness on co-operative behavior. Oscillating Windows currently consists of two 'windows' on either side of a room. While the room is empty, the image remains on one side. As individuals equipped with an ads hoc networking device begin crowding the room however, the 'window' oscillates to the other side through the network created by the presence of the individuals, provided certain formations are realized. The network will only form when people arrange themselves in certain configurations. Our working electronic prototype will have customizable parameters which affect the rules, orientation, and timing of network communication, allowing participants to experiment with various experience models of the ad-hoc network.

Part 4: Conclusion
Materials: None
We conclude the workshop with a brainstorming session to generate feedback on the entire session, and discuss possible future directions for development of either ad-hoc networking applications or artist-led collaborative research projects.

People:
Katherine Moriwaki is an artist and researcher investigating wearables, fashion, emerging communication infrastructures, and the experiential resonance of technologically mediated public space. Currently a Ph.D. Candidate at the University of Dublin, Trinity College, in the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Katherine's dissertation is focused on creative and artistic applications of networked communications and emergent behavior. In addition to her research Katherine teaches in the Department of Computer Science and the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at Trinity College. Formerly a Design Fellow at Parsons School of Design, Katherine developed and taught "Fashionable Technology", an interdisciplinary collaboration studio exploring the interstices of wearable technology, art, and fashion. Katherine received her Masters degree from the Interactive Telecommunications Program at New York University. Her work has appeared in IEEE Spectrum Magazine, and has exhibited at numerous festivals and conferences.
URL: www.kakirine.com
CONTACT: kaki@kakirine.com

Linda Doyle is a lecturer in the Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering Trinity College Dublin. Her research group, the Networks & Telecommunications Research Group, (NTRG), is based in the Department of Engineering and the Department of Computer Science. The NTRG focuses on core networking technologies, telecommunications services, e-commerce and network security. The main focus of the work is centered on 4G communication systems, reconfigurable radio, and ad hoc networks. Her particular research is based on wireless communication systems with both a technical and artistic side.
URL: www.mee.tcd.ie/~ledoyle
CONTACT: linda.doyle@tcd.ie

Supporting Documents:
Doyle, L., O'Mahony, D., (2002) Ad hoc Networks - A Welcome Disruption, IST 2002 Event,
Copenhagen, Novemeber 4th - 6th, 2002. [Invited Paper]
http://www.mee.tcd.ie/~ledoyle/publications/ist2002paper.pdf
Oscillating Windows
http://www.kakirine.com/windows
NTRG
http://ntrg.cs.tcd.ie

Technical Rider: to be provided by the NTRG
? Approximately five (5) Handheld PDAs (Compaq Ipaq)
? Two (2) laptops
? NTRG ad hoc platform
? Oscillating Windows application software
Optional materials not provided by NTRG:
? Two (2) projectors
Time required for workshop: 4 hrs.