Plenary Abstracts
Non-Euclidean Virtual Reality
On the Possible Values of \(\pi\), and Other Adventures in Normed Linear Spaces
Speaker: Kelly Delp, Cornell University
Abstract:
Let \(\Omega\) be a closed, bounded, convex set in the plane that contains and is symmetric about the origin. For example, \(\Omega\) could be a regular \(2n\)-gon centered at the origin. Such a set can be used to define a linear norm on the plane, which induces a so called Minkowski metric.
In this talk, I’ll survey some results about this family of metric spaces, including the work of former undergraduates Sam Reed and Michael Filipski. Reed computed the values of \(\pi\) in the regular \(2n\)-gon metrics, and Filipski gave an explicit description of a \(2\)-parameter sine function in the taxicab metric. As time allows, I’ll share my motivation for learning more about these metric spaces, which lies in their connection to convex projective structures on surfaces. I’ll also have plenty of animations, and will discuss how they were created.
Sensual Mathematics
Speaker: Kirsi Peltonen, Aalto University
Abstract:
I will describe some ideas and concrete openings at Aalto University to enhance interaction between science and arts. This is a talk for a broad audience.
![](https://depts.washington.edu/uwmxl/glu/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Untitled-300x200.png)
Photo: Henri Vogt