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Langton Ant Simulator

Completed 2021 • Desktop GUI simulation of Langton's Ant using Python classes and Tkinter controls

A Python Tkinter simulator of Langton's Ant allowing users to configure grid size, pixel size, rules (L/R sequences), generation count, and number of ants. The UI provides start/stop/next/clear controls, checkboxes for grid display and adding ants, and live counters for generations and ants. The ant logic supports clockwise/counterclockwise turns with direction updates and position tracking, enabling exploration of emergent patterns in the cellular automaton.

Software Engineering Python Development Simulation Algorithms Cellular Automata GUI

Overview

Key Features

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Configurable grid size and pixel size

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Customizable rule strings (L/R) for ant behavior

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Multi-ant support with add-ant control

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Start/stop/next/clear controls and generation counter

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Toggle grid display and adjust simulation delay

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Directional movement and turn logic with position tracking

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Technical Highlights

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Implemented configurable Langton's Ant with custom rule sequences and direction logic

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Built a Tkinter UI with interactive controls (start/stop/step/clear) and live counters

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Supported multi-ant mode and adjustable simulation delay for exploration of emergent patterns

Challenges and Solutions

Rule Flexibility

Handled arbitrary L/R rule strings and ensured correct turn/move sequencing

Interactive Controls

Coordinated UI state (run, step, clear) with simulation loop and timing controls

State Tracking

Managed ant positions/directions and grid state while supporting multiple ants

Technologies

Language

Python

UI

Tkinter

Logic

Langton’s Ant Custom rule sequences (L/R)

Project Information

Status: Completed
Year: 2021
Architecture: Desktop GUI simulation of Langton's Ant using Python classes and Tkinter controls
Category: Software Engineering

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