Phase transition in a swarm algorithm for self-organized construction

Abstract

A swarm technique was studied for the construction of connected, locally linear structures by myopic agents. The effect of block density on the final structure, demonstrating a percolation-like phase transition, was also discussed. The empirical study of the structure at the transition point shows scaling behavior, providing strong evidence for criticality. The results have implications for the self-organized construction of complex structures by swarms.