ITR: Information Dynamics for Networked Feedback Systems

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This project is developing a new framework for investigating the dynamics ofinformation in complex, interconnected systems. The key technical thrustsof the project are: (1) real-time information theory, (2) robust control ofnetworks, (3) packet-based control theory,and (4) computational complexityof network systems. Each of these thrusts explores aspects of informationsystems that must interact with the real-world in a manner that requirescareful control of the timing of the computation and the evolution of theinformation state of the system. While diverse in application, thesethrusts represent a common core of intellectual thrusts that integratecomputer science, control, and communications.The results of the proposed research are being evaluated on two testbedsalready at Caltech. The first is the Multi-Vehicle Wireless Testbed, whichprovides a distributed environment for control of 8-10 vehicles performingcooperative tasks in a real-time environment. The second is the WAN in Lab,a wide area network consisting of high speed servers, programmable routers,electronic crossconnects, and long haul fibers with associated opticalamplifiers, dispersion compensation modules and optical multiplexers.The project is also developing elements of a curriculum that will providetraining to students in information systems that blends communications,computation, and control. This includes integration our the researchframework into a recently created course at Caltech on the principles offeedback and control, CDS 101, as well as development a second course, IST201, aimed at bringing together faculty and students interested in workingon problems at the boundaries of these traditional disciplines.