9 laser cut, masonite boxes form a 3' X 3' grid on the ground. Each box has the capability of one dimension of movement, and are placed in alternating orientation. Each box has it's own simple logic and uses IR Sensors in four directions to sense another body aproaching. The decentralized, autonomous pieces disrupt the grid by moving out of the way when bodies engage it. This causes a ripple effect through the grid. Each box maintains a breadcrumb and attempts to return to it's original place.
(*Current state of project and plan for completion is under 'Implementation')

Audience
The piece is a sculpture, and is intended to be easily engaged w/ little need for background on the project.

Implementation
I presented this project today in Living Art class with the behavior seen in attached video. Currently I have 4 of the 9 boxes built, but have laser cut all necessary pieces. I am refining the behavior on the 4, before building the rest. Currently I use Photocells to determine when objects are near the boxes, but am switching this to pairs of IRLEDs and emitters to get more solid detection. The actual construction of the units is very quick, as all the parts are laser cut. I may also use a piece of masonite to run the boxes on, as i could cut small grooves so that the boxes can move perfectly in line.