A simulation platform that allows for the creation of artificial life that is available for free.
Perun is a free and open source software that provides access to distributed research platforms for evolution experiments. The software is based on Physis and inspired by the Avida project. It is written in the Java programming language and it is used to simulate Artificial Life in computer science. Perun enables users to focus on simulations of basic principles of real life, all within a simulated life-space.
Within this simulated life-space are simple pseudo-assembler programs called organisms that are able to create their own copies and reproduce themselves. Users can give these organisms basic mathematical instructions like PLUS, MINUS and instructions to perform INPUT/OUTPUT. As organisms perform tasks like adding two given numbers, they are rewarded with energy. This energy is used for memory and processor time.
Breeding of organisms results in new copies, similar to their parent but not identical. Mutation takes its part in the breeding process, and while many mutations are lethal, some may lead to new improved functions. Oddly mutated organisms will be short of energy and die soon, which is a forced natural selection. Organisms that fulfill tasks efficiently have enough energy, reproduce themselves, and survive.
To use Perun, one can follow the steps provided by the software. A class SystemInit is prepared that handles the startup of all needed parts on a user's computer. This class is run when double-clicking on the perun.jar file. As long as SystemInit is set as the default target for the jar file, users will get everything they need. Two windows will then appear, one being the SystemInit window with tabs for three components (admin, isle, client), and the second being the client window. Alternatively, users can use the command typed in the Perun directory: java -Djava.security.policy=data/java.policy perun.systeminit.SystemInit.
In conclusion, Perun is a powerful software that makes simulated Artificial Life accessible to users. Its ability to simulate basic principles of real life and provide access to distributed research platforms for evolution experiments is truly remarkable.
Within this simulated life-space are simple pseudo-assembler programs called organisms that are able to create their own copies and reproduce themselves. Users can give these organisms basic mathematical instructions like PLUS, MINUS and instructions to perform INPUT/OUTPUT. As organisms perform tasks like adding two given numbers, they are rewarded with energy. This energy is used for memory and processor time.
Breeding of organisms results in new copies, similar to their parent but not identical. Mutation takes its part in the breeding process, and while many mutations are lethal, some may lead to new improved functions. Oddly mutated organisms will be short of energy and die soon, which is a forced natural selection. Organisms that fulfill tasks efficiently have enough energy, reproduce themselves, and survive.
To use Perun, one can follow the steps provided by the software. A class SystemInit is prepared that handles the startup of all needed parts on a user's computer. This class is run when double-clicking on the perun.jar file. As long as SystemInit is set as the default target for the jar file, users will get everything they need. Two windows will then appear, one being the SystemInit window with tabs for three components (admin, isle, client), and the second being the client window. Alternatively, users can use the command typed in the Perun directory: java -Djava.security.policy=data/java.policy perun.systeminit.SystemInit.
In conclusion, Perun is a powerful software that makes simulated Artificial Life accessible to users. Its ability to simulate basic principles of real life and provide access to distributed research platforms for evolution experiments is truly remarkable.
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