Localization and sensing applications in the Pushpin Computer Network

Thesis (M. Eng. and S.B.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, 2005.Includes bibliographical references (p. 117-124).The utility and purpose of a node in a wireless sensor network is intimately tied to the physical space in which it is distributed. As such, it is advantageous under most circumstances for a sensor node to know its position. In this work, we present two systems for localizing a network of roughly 60 sensor nodes distributed over an area of 1-m2. One is based on a linear lateration technique, while the second approach utilizes non-linear optimization techniques, namely spectral graph drawing and mesh relaxation. In both cases, localization is accomplished by generating distance constraints based on ultrasound time-of-flight measurements to distinct, global sensor stimuli. These distance constraints alone are sufficient to achieve localization; no a priori knowledge of sensor node coordinates or the coordinates of the global sensor events are required. Using this technique, we have achieved a localization error of 2.30-cm and an error standard deviation of 2.36-cm.by Michael Joseph Broxton.M.Eng.and S.B

Designing Effective Google Maps for Social Change: A Case Study of SmartChoices

This project focuses on the development of interactive, map-based websites created to benefit members of a community. Beginning with a loom at earlier examples of personalized maps and the start of the online mapping revolution, this project will explore the ways in which maps, specifically Google Maps, can be used in order to create informative and useful online tools for community members. This project will focus on the creation and development of the Hartford SmartChoices website, a collaborative effort of Trinity College and ConnCAN (Connecticut Coalition for Achievement Now). Each chapter addess a stage of development, from the need addressed by the website to its usefulness, accessibility, popularity, and aesthetic qualities. Originally downloaded from http://www.devlinhughes.com/SmartChoices

Distributed computing manipulatives

Thesis (S.M.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, School of Architecture and Planning, Program in Media Arts and Sciences, 2007.Includes bibliographical references (p. 65-67).Distributed systems and the emergent properties that can arise out of simple localized interactions have fascinated scientists and artists alike for the last century. They challenge the notions of control and creativity, producing outcomes that can be beautiful, engaging and surprising at the same time. While extensive work has been done using computer simulations of such systems in fields like artificial life and generative art, their physically embodied counterparts are still in their infancy, in part due to the complexity of building and deploying such systems. In this thesis, I will discuss how simple tangible nodes can enable playful and creative experimentation with the concept of emergent behavior. Specifically, I will address how embodied interaction scenarios involving parallel systems can be implemented and how a range of sensing and actuating possibilities can be leveraged to generate novel and engaging experiences for the end users. In particular, the use of sound will be explored as a medium for representation. Finally, I will argue that there is value in making the transition from software simulations to a situated and manipulable instantiation of these concepts, both for the designer of a system and its users.by David Bouchard.S.M

Human-computer interaction's role in geographical information systems development

Tese de mestrado integrado. Engenharia Informátca e Computação. Faculdade de Engenharia. Universidade do Porto. 200

Planning with Citizens: Implementation of an e-Planning Platform and Analysis of Research Needs

Citizen participation should be an essential part of an urban planning process if the needs of the local population are to be addressed. Citizen participation should also improve acceptance of private construction projects by residents that live in or near such development. A complementary form of citizen participation to public planning meetings is to permit citizen engagement via Web 2.0 technologies, which also has the potential to get citizens involved that are usually difficult to reach. We aim to build a social, i.e. participatory, planning platform that allows technology savvy citizens to inform themselves of future and ongoing development projects and to also discuss them online. In this work we discuss the functional needs and context-of-use constraints of such an e-planning platform. A conceptual model of the technical architecture is outlined and a prototype implementation is presented. This prototype is built on free and open source software components, including a social network, to enable platform adoption in other locations. Finally, we discuss the research needs that are to be addressed if the development of participatory e-planning platforms should advance