Managing Flocking Objects with an Octree Spanning a Parallel Message-Passing Computer Cluster

We investigate the management of flocking mobile objects using a parallel message-passing computer cluster. An octree, a data structure well-known for use in managing a 3D space, is adapted to “span” the cluster. Objects are distributed in the tree, and partitions of the tree are distributed among the processors in such a way that a minimum of global information is required to be shared by the processors. When objects move, the tree is modified accordingly; this in turn may cause partitions to migrate processors. Two constraints drive the distribution algorithm: (1) minimizing message traffic by clustering nearby objects on the same processor, and (2) processor load-balancing. Boids, flocking artificial life forms, embody the objects in this study. The performance of the system is measured in terms of the inter-processor message traffic as a function of the number, interactivity, and mobility of objects. An application of the scheme allows external clients to view objects in speci...

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2003
• Where: PDPTA
• Authors: Thomas E. Portegys, Kevin M. Greenan
• Keywords: Message Traffic, Mobile Objects, Nearby Objects, PDPTA 2003, PDPTA 2007