S.N.A.K.E.: A Dynamically Reconfigurable Artificial Sensate Skin ...

Code Distribution: a very simple means of code distribution was demonstrated in this
project, however it can be as complex as needed. Some nodes might be designated
as leaders, so that code has to be transferred only to them by the Brain. Once a low
activity condition is detected, these would proceed to distribute the code recursively
to their neighbors.
Proximity from shadows: this would be trivial to implement. The average amount of
ambient light can be calculated for an entire patch to serve as a reference point. Once
this is done, proximity can be calculated from the amount of light blocked from either
one or many sensors.
Pressure Gradients: gathering data from neighbors, nodes can calculate the center of
mass of an object placed on top of the skin.
Motion Sensing: using the whiskers the skin can be used to detect the amount of
wind.
Artistic displays: Skin Patches can be used to wrap walls, floors or ceilings and make
them interactive. A passer by could cast a shadow for example, and LEDs would light
up, displaying its silhouette.
6.3 Future Work
There are several things that can be done to improve the functionality of the project. Several
of these have already been mentioned before, however they are summarized in the following
list. A brief description is also provided.
Larger Network: a larger network would allow more tests and applications to be
tested.
Improve mechanical design: several mechanical characteristics of the design can be
improved.
144