Please note that this document is subject to frequent changes.
Last updated: Oct. 16, 2000.

Project Theme
	Machine Architecture (2.2) in the context of Aesthetic Computing.

Project Idea
	I plan to model the architecture of the Intel(R) Itanium(TM) microprocessor.
	As of now, the corresponding behavioral model will be a Finite State Machine.
	I have a couple of ideas concerning a metaphor, that I will pick from:
	- restaurant (tables <-> states, carpets laid between tables <-> transitions);
	- tree with fruits and lianas (fruits <-> states, lianas <-> transitions).

Staffing
	I will work alone.

Project Description
	The machine architecture of the Itanium microprocessor is very intricate.
	Furthermore, it is designed in conjunction with a memory and an I/O model.
	My project will attempt to depict the basic functionality and also to reveal
	certain details that are relevant for the context.

	I plan to start with a functional block diagram of the microprocessor and
	integrate it within a basic machine architecture.  The focus will be on the
	microprocessor.  The other components will appear only as a support for it.

	A 3D representation of this system should fulfill the following objectives:
	- be accurate conceptually, at the level of detail represented;
	- be alive, for any computer continues to function as long as plugged in;
	- allow user interaction in a fashion consistent with the purpose of the model;
	- be aesthetic, an essential characteristic given the project theme;

	The last goal mentioned above should address issues as:
	- intuitive behavior, that can convey the concepts represented in the scene;
	- user frendliness;
	- enjoyable experience (including, but not limited to, sound integration).

Time Line
	My hope is to follow the project due dates:
	                        Oct. 11    Oct. 23     Nov. 6    Nov. 22     Dec. 6
	                              |          |          |          |          |
	Detailed description          ############          |          |          |
	Example VRML world                  #################          |          |
	First demonstration                 ############################          |
	Full fledged project                                 ######################

Bottom Line
	(literally)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------