[2E6-GS-8] Robot and real worlds:

[2E6-GS-8-04] Simple real robot design with phototaxis and experiments on swarm dynamics

〇john smith^1,2, Norihiro Maruyama^1,2, Takashi Ikegami^1,2 (1. University of the Tokyo, 2. Alternative Machine Inc.)

Keywords:swarm robotics, collective intelligence, phase transition

In this study, we designed and produced small, cost-effectively mass-producible robots equipped with light sensors and vibration motors to explore the dynamics of swarm robotics. These robots possess functions similar to phototaxis through their light sensors, and by each having an illumination feature, they form a swarm structure with mutual interactions. This research analyzes the behavioral changes as active matter influenced by environmental conditions and interactions (light conditions and collisions) in a multi-agent system. Each robot is attracted to and moves towards light sources within the environment, but due to slight individual differences, they do not exhibit uniform movement even in the same environment. We analyze the movement patterns that occur when these heterogeneous individuals interact within the group. Our analysis has revealed that specific fluctuations in the swarm occur under certain light conditions. We focus on understanding how individual robot behavior changes due to interactions and the formation of swarm structures, and whether a phase transition in dynamics occurs due to the density of individuals in the environment