Events - Homopolybots: Building Modular Humans

Thurs. May 9th, 2002 9:00am - 4:00pm
Early Registration before April 26th
Online Registration Form

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Objectives	Can we create enhanced humans using modular prosthetic devices? How does a mechanical body differ from a human body, if at all? When does an object become _part_of_ a human body? The Homopolybots workshop aims to bring together University Researchers and Artists to discuss particular problems and questions associated with creating modular humans. Possible subjects of discussion include: When does technology become "part of" the human body"? What are the implications of having one's own physiological responses to environment manifest? What is technology? What is art? What are acceptable fusions? As prosthetic research merges with computing, how do we build models that: help us to gain insite into technology and prosthetic research? How do we address issues that are realistic and that serve to enhance human motion, communication and understanding? Attendees with particular interests in the following may wish to attend: Computing, HCI, Robotics, Prosthetics, Ethics & Technology, Cybernetics. We also encourage the demonstration of artwork, robotics, prosthetics and computing devices that provide solutions to human-machine communication and motion. If you are interested in presenting your technology, please provide a detailed description to Jennifer G. Sheridan
Where:	Conference Centre, Meeting Room 4, Lancaster University, Lancaster map
Cost:	Advanced Registration (before April 26th): Professionals/Staff: £35 Students/Seniors: £20 After April 26th: Professionals/Staff: £50 Students/Seniors: £30 Reserved seating only. To reserve your seat, please fill out our online form.
Summary:	The morning's actvities will consist of the distinguished panel presenting their views about the presented topic. After the second panel session, invited guests will present their wares. During lunch, each attendee will sign up for a group discussion (attendees may suggest their own group topic during lunch). After lunch, groups will meet and discuss how they will overcome the problems presented in the panel discussion. After the afternoon break, each group will delegate a group leader to discuss their findings. A moderator will summarize the findings at the end of the day.
Agenda:	08:30 Doors open 09:00 Welcome: J. Martin Pedersen. Environment & Technology: What is technology? 09:15 Panellist discussion:   * Stelarc Performance Art: Muscle stimulation system for remote choreography of the body   * Prof. Alan Dix Human-computer Interaction (HCI): Driving as a Cyborg Experience: Extending 'Self'   * Dr. Jen Allanson Neurophysiology & Computing: Direct brain-computer communication   * Fiona O'Neill Aesthetics & Ethics: Common Sense & Cyborgs: Needs & Desires for Body Modification 10:30 Break 10:45 Panellist discussion and Q&A with Stelarc, Prof. Alan Dix, Dr. Jen Allanson, J. Martin Pedersen, Fiona O'Neill 11:30 Warez Show 12:00 Luncheon 13:00 Breakout sessions 14:15 Break 14:30 Group presentations 15:45 Summary: J. Martin Pedersen