A Genetic Algorithms Approach to Learning Communication and Coordination in Simulated Robots

Abstract. This project is motivated by an existing robot system for mapping unknown environments and attempts to improve its effectiveness through the use of genetic algorithms. Using the Webots simulator, the mapping system is created using simulated Khepera robots and a simulated environment. The robots are controlled by a supervisor agent that makes the high-level decisions about tasks for individual robots to complete to accomplish the mapping effort. This research investigates the ability of adding a GA learning component to the supervisor to improve its ability to coordinate the robotic agents

New materials for micro-scale sensors and actuators:an engineering review

This paper provides a detailed overview of developments in transducer materials technology relating to their current and future applications in micro-scale devices. Recent advances in piezoelectric, magnetostrictive and shape-memory alloy systems are discussed and emerging transducer materials such as magnetic nanoparticles, expandable micro-spheres and conductive polymers are introduced. Materials properties, transducer mechanisms and end applications are described and the potential for integration of the materials with ancillary systems components is viewed as an essential consideration. The review concludes with a short discussion of structural polymers that are extending the range of micro-fabrication techniques available to designers and production engineers beyond the limitations of silicon fabrication technology.Original Publication:S.A. Wilson, R.P.-J. Jourdain, Q. Zhang, R.A. Dorey, C.R. Bowen, Magnus Willander, Qamar Ul Wahab, M. Willander, S.M. Al-hilli, O. Nur, E. Quandt, C. Johansson, E. Pagounis, M. Kohl, J. Matovic, B. Samel, der Wijngaart W. van, Edwin Jager, D. Carlsson, Z. Djinovic, M. Wegener, C. Moldovan, E. Abad, M. Wendlandt, C. Rusu and K. Persson, New materials for micro-scale sensors and actuators. An engineering review, 2007, Materials science & engineering. R, Reports, (56), 1-129.http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.mser.2007.03.001Copyright: Elsevierhttp://www.elsevier.com