Soda Constructor: Rewritten in JS | Free for Classrooms

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a Java applet called Soda Constructor that has been rewritten in JavaScript for classroom use. Participants share their experiences with the original applet and discuss related programming projects, including implementations in other programming languages and concepts like genetic algorithms.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant shares a link to their JavaScript version of the Soda Constructor applet, noting its availability for classroom use.
  • Another participant mentions similar programs available at Processing.org that utilize Java, Python, and JavaScript.
  • A participant recounts their experience rewriting the applet in C++ and implementing a genetic algorithm to evolve a fast runner, expressing interest in the evolution process.
  • Further discussion arises about the genetic algorithm's influence on the design of the evolved creature, specifically changes in leg structure.
  • One participant suggests developing an app that simulates the gait of the robot TARS from the movie Interstellar.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express enthusiasm for the original Soda Constructor and its adaptations, but there is no consensus on specific implementations or the best approaches to evolving creatures using genetic algorithms.

Contextual Notes

Some participants reference their personal projects and experiences, which may not be directly comparable due to differences in implementation and objectives. The discussion includes speculative ideas about potential applications and variations of the original concept.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in programming, genetic algorithms, educational tools in STEM, and those who enjoy exploring creative coding projects may find this discussion relevant.

RentonPhysics
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Thanks for sharing this.

There are also some cool programs at Processing.org that do similar kinds of things in Java, Python and Javascript.
 
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I love that thing. I rewrote it in C++ a long time ago. I implemented a genetic algorithm for all of the springs and lengths and stuff so it evolved a super fast runner.
 
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newjerseyrunner said:
I love that thing. I rewrote it in C++ a long time ago. I implemented a genetic algorithm for all of the springs and lengths and stuff so it evolved a super fast runner.

Cool! GA - that was the idea of original author of Soda as well. Did you capture some videos of these evolutions? Was it hard to control? It's extremely interesting to me :)
 
RentonPhysics said:
Cool! GA - that was the idea of original author of Soda as well. Did you capture some videos of these evolutions? Was it hard to control? It's extremely interesting to me :)
No unfortunately, I didn't. I remember I used the "Dainty Walker" as a base, and evolved from that. I remember that the front legs got shorter and the bag legs got bigger and more powerful. I just let it walk across a randomized terrain and bred the 50% that got the furthest.
 
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An interesting variation would be to develop an app that simulated the Interstellar robot TARS' gait.

 
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newjerseyrunner said:
No unfortunately, I didn't. I remember I used the "Dainty Walker" as a base, and evolved from that. I remember that the front legs got shorter and the bag legs got bigger and more powerful. I just let it walk across a randomized terrain and bred the 50% that got the furthest.

it sounds similar to this app
 
RentonPhysics said:
it sounds similar to this app
It acted a lot like that.
 
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