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.