The Evolution Grid, or EvoGrid is a computer simulation framework for distributed artificial chemistry (AC) supp orting computational origins of life (COoL) research. The EvoGrid consists of a number of small experiments running on sho rt time scales pruned by aggressive tree-branching search es supported by random parametric re-seeding and temporal backtracking. The EvoGrid is designed to converge upon the observation of “cameo” simulations of key pre-biotic or simple biological structures or behaviors. These cameo simula tions can then inform and feed larger AC simulations operating over biologically relevant time scales. In addition, the framework is designed to plug into a heterogeneous set of engines ranging from high fidelity molecular dynamics (MD) to more abstract AC techniques on the same set of data. The EvoGrid a lso provides shared web-based simulation management services and uniform, open standards for execution, storage an d data analysis. We conclude by describing the first prototype implementation of the EvoGrid, early results, next ste ps and open questions in this and other COoL endeavors.
['Bruce Damer', 'Peter Newman', 'Richard Gordon', 'Tom Barbalet', 'David W. Deamer', 'Ryan Norkus']
The EvoGrid: A Framework for Distributed Artificial Chemistry Cameo Simulations Supporting Computational Origins of Life Endeavors