Algorithmic Foundations of Programmable Matter Dagstuhl Seminar 16271

Abstract

In July 2016, the Dagstuhl Seminar 16271 considered "Algorithmic Foundations of Programmable Matter", a new and emerging field that combines theoretical work on algorithms with a wide spectrum of practical applications that reach all the way from small-scale embedded systems to cyber-physical structures at nano-scale. The aim of the Dagstuhl seminar was to bring together researchers from the algorithms community with selected experts from robotics and distributed systems in order to set a solid base for the development of models, technical solutions, and algorithms that can control programmable matter. Both communities benefited from such a meeting for the following reasons: Meeting experts from other fields provided additional insights, challenges and focus when considering work on programmable matter. Interacting with colleagues in a close and social manner gave many starting points for continuing collaboration. Getting together in a strong, large and enthusiastic group provided the opportunity to plan a number of followup activities. .