Researchers at the University of Essex are using Linux and tiny embedded computer modules to build fleets of unmanned aircraft that fly in flocking formations like birds, while performing parallel, distributed computing tasks using Bluetooth-connected Linux clustering software. The project is being undertaken by members of Essex University's Computer Science and Electronic Systems Engineering departments, and is led by Dr. Owen Hollands, who heads the computer science research department. The project includes two branches. The Gridswarm branch will use model aerobatic trainers equipped with auto-pilot systems and capable of flying at speeds of 120mph. The UltraSwarm branch, meanwhile, will work on an "indoor" version, based on small helicopters with co-axial rotors. PhD candidate Renzo de Nardi recently completed a prototype UltraSwarm device, a craft the project believes to be the smallest flying web server in the world. Once the whole flock has been completed, the onboard computers will be configured as a Piconet (a network of devices connected in an ad hoc manner via Bluetooth), "with the master on the arena-based computer system," Hollands says............. **************** � � � � � � � � � ***************************** Kiggundu Mukasa� � � � � � � � # Computer Network Consultancy### KYM-NET LTD. � � � � � � � � � # Intranets & Internet Solutions# Plot 80 Kanjokya Street P.O. Box 24284 Kampala, Uganda� � � � � � � Tel: � � +256 77 972255 �� � � � +256 71 221141 Fax: � � +256 31 262122 ***************************************************************** |
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