Author: Serkadis

  • YouTube: Fatal accident with vulture on a windmill

    Article Tags: Windfarms, YouTube

    The following YouTube was send to us to show the danger of windfarms on birds of prey, see also Deadly blades; death toll mounts as wind farms massacre birds of prey by Cathy Taibbi or simply click the “Windfarm” tag for more articles on this topic.

    Note: If you suffer from a nervous disposition or are under 18 DO NOT LOOK AT THIS YOUTUBE.

    A vulture fly too close to a windmill in Lendas, south Crete and make a fatal mistake.

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  • The tailored data-acquisition system for hydraulic test stands

    Designed to produce a hydraulic test certificate at the touch of a button, Webtec has released the 3rd generation C2000. This turn-key system comprises hydraulic sensors, data acquisition hardware, C2000 software and training.

    Aimed primarily at hydraulic pump repair and rebuild companies the C2000 is a complete instrumentation, display, logging, storage and reporting solution tailored to the needs of the client. The system interface runs on Microsoft Windows(TM) and allows the test stand operator to produce a test certificate at the touch of a button while ensuring full ISO9000 traceability on test.

    The C2000 is a robust production solution that substantially simplifies the testing and certification process. The C2000 is designed to be networked, which allows a supervisor to access test files from a different computer for e-mailing to customers or printing additional reports. The solution is fully scaleable with up to 64 inputs and includes sensors to measure all hydraulic parameters such as flow, pressure, temperature, speed, contamination and torque.

  • Compact vane air motors

    The GLOBE – Archimedes compact vane air motors are available with a wide range of incorporated planetary reduction units. These motors are used in all kinds of tooling and driving equipment and in situations with limited mounting space.

    Advantages of the compact vane air motors include:
    Simple adjustable torque and output speed, Can be stalled under load without harm, Superior power-to-weight ratio.

    Available in stainless steel for the food and chemical industries
    Instantly reversible, Various mounting options, Certified according ATEX II cat.2 G&D T5.

  • First use of position-flexible clamps…

    … in the production of cast parts that are sensitive to deformations

    Brabant Components uses ROEMHELD Know-How

    “ROEMHELD brought the solution to the point”

    For the Dutch company Brabant Components, a double-edged situation arose already in 2008. With every successful project realised by the specialist for casting of demanding parts out of different magnesium alloys as well as aluminium alloys, the requests of the customers, e.g. of the automotive industry, grew with every successful project – time pressure, part variety combined with increased quality standards. To sum up, there was an increasing risk in the manufacturing process, that the workpiece would be deformed during manufacturing or even would crack under these conditions. “A high-quality oil sump today must not only be absolutely tight. It is a complex workpiece, that also assumes auxiliary functions at the motor and serves different mounting components”, describes production manager W. A. van de Ven the initial situation. Who intends in this situation to deliver exactly according to the customer’s demand and does not want to fall behind with delivery cannot afford failures in its production.

    Minimum displacement forces for optimum results

    The excellent qualities of ROEMHELD in hydraulic power workholding were best well known to the Dutch. Both companies cooperated already successfully in an earlier project. After a joint analysis of the problems, the developers of ROEMHELD put their solution on the table. The new position-flexible clamp with separate locking port. The double-acting clamping element can precisely support and clamp the oil sump so that an optimum result is guaranteed with maximized production speed. “In addition, it had to be guaranteed that the roughness required for further processing is maintained at the workpiece edges. With their new clamping element, ROEMHELD brought the solution to the point. ” praises Mr. van de Ven the target-oriented collaboration. A further advantage of the new clamp is the vibration-cushioning feature and the simultaneous holding force of 10 kN at an operating pressure of 250 bar. These were the preconditions.

  • UPL Ultra air Pump Linear

    Air-hydraulic Ultra Speed pump to work with an in line control valve

    The UPL pump by BELL can be useful to operate single and double-acting cylinders through an in-line control valve (optional).

    It is equipped with a retained control to work in standby for the pressurization of the circuit.

    Moreover, the pressure gauge on the delivery blcck (standard) let the pressure in the circuit to be controlled anytime. Especially useful in the standby mode to operated for example hydraulic presses and other blocking systems.

    Main applications:

    The UP pump, as well as all BELL pumps, can be applied in all those hydraulic applications which require high pressure and/or where the oil flow must be controlled to grant the maximum precision during the operations.

    Main technical features:
    Operated through an in-line distributori (optional)
    Oil pressure up to 700 bar Oil flow up to 2,7 L/min Tank capacity: 2,4 L – 5 L – 7 L Pneumatic circuit (2,8/10bar)
    No lubricated air Low noise (75 dbA) Compact design (mm 319x155x241) Light weight: 6,3 Kg Heavy duty construction Internal max pressure valve Air connection standard G 1/4″ Oil connection standard 3/8 NPTF Air consumption 400 Nl /min

  • New Scanner: Economical, Efficient & Accurate

    What you’re looking at is what’s claimed to be “the world’s most affordable portable 3D laser scanner.” It’s the ZScanner 600 from Z Corp. (zcorp.com). It has a price of just $28,900. The hand-held device can be used for applications including reverse engineering, product design, and cultural preservation.

    A key advantage of the hand-held approach to scanning is that tripods, mechanical arms, and other devices aren’t necessary. Consequently, it is readily manipulated even inside areas that might otherwise be difficult to reach.

    Now some products that are designated “hand-held” are best handled by someone who may be a finalist in the World Weightlifting Championship. However, the ZScanner 600 tips the scales at just 0.98 kg, or 2.1 lb., so it is manageable. It is also comparatively compact measuring 6.2 x 10.2 x 8.2 in. According to the people at Z Corp., it will fit in a carry-on suitcase

    For all that, the unit can get the job done, as the two-camera device offers an X-Y accuracy of up to 0.003 in. (80 microns) and a resolution of 0.004 in. (0.1 mm) in the Z-axis. The sampling speed for the device is 18,000 measurements per second.

    To use it, it is simply a matter of “painting” the object of interest with the device; there is a projected laser crosshair so that it is evident where the surface is being covered. This is recorded by the binocular cameras.

    The included ZScan software produces a polygon mesh of the surface on a computer screen (it is compatible with Intel Core 2 Duo processor machines running Windows Vista Business or XP Professional and equipped with NVIDIA Quadro NVS 320M graphics) in real-time.

    Because the data is being captured in a continuous scan rather than numerous fixed-position shots, the post-processing that would be required to integrate the static shots isn’t necessary. With the included ZScan Lite software, an .stl file is automatically generated.

  • Column Sentry Concrete Wrap™

    Wrap Sizes | Wrap Install

    Concrete Wrap™ adds a durable layer of protection around your existing round concrete columns, protecting both your column and vehicles from collision damage. Concrete Wrap™ increases the visibility of the column to help avoid collisions altogether. Formed from a 2″ (50mm) layer of polyurethane foam with a protective EVA shell.

    Features:
    2″ (50mm) thick foam body with durable EVA skin
    ribbed inner surface to form-fit for a variety of round columns
    belt recesses to allow for easy installation with no tools
    easily modified to fit most round columns.
    add pieces for larger columns; cut pieces for smaller columns

  • New! CE-500 Series – Overview

    A Game Changing platform – one core, 4.3″ or 7″ screens, Fixed or Portable

    The CE-500 Ground breaking layered architecture provides OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and ASPs (Application Service Providers) with a rugged, versatile, vehicle-centric, and fixed-mount or portable mobile-computing platform for a variety of MRM (Mobile Resource Management) applications.

    The platform features Microsoft Windows Embedded CE 6 operating system, supporting Compact Framework 3.5, and offers a comprehensive development environment for independent application programming and system integration.

    Its unique layered architecture makes the CE-500 highly modular and scalable, allowing for variable factory-set configurations and in-field hardware upgrades, by using plug-in modules.

    This future proof and cost effective design: simplifies maintenance tasks, significantly extends product life expectancy, and lowers TCO (total cost of ownership).

    The CE-500 is built to withstand a wide temperature range, vibrations, shock, and endure the rough working conditions in the commercial vehicle environment.

    CE-504 and CE-507 Models
    Ergonomically designed for use in different sizes of commercial vehicles, two distinct product models are available, each featuring an optimized user interface.

    A single core processing unit supports two exchangeable display sizes: 4.3” WQVGA (CE-504 model) and 7” WVGA (CE-507 model), each combining a touch color screen with large and programmable function and control keys.

    Both models feature multiple, integrated wireless options: Quad band GPRS modem, GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. All wireless options come with internal antennas.

    Physical interface options on these models include: USB, Serial RS-232 ports, dedicated interface for Dallas ID button reader, analog inputs, multiple digital inputs and outputs, and control signals for vehicle connectivity.

    Additional integrated options include a bar-code scanner and magnetic card-reader.

    Each model can be ordered with fixed-mount or portable configurations. The portable configuration includes a battery, for up to two hours of operation, and a cradle for recharging and for additional interface and connectivity options.

    Development Tool Kit Packages

    The CE-500 has a Development Tool Kit \ SDK package, for independent application development and it is backed by Micronet’s technical support.

    Platform Key Features

    Rugged, Feature-rich Ground breaking layered architecture Multiple optional built-in modules Vehicle interface Fixed or Portable Best-in-class User Interface
    For technical specs and for more details, please contact your Micronet representative.

  • Global warming may be normal at this point in glacial cycle, by Lewis Page, The Register

    Article Tags: Lewis Page

    German and Russian scientists say that it is normal for an interglacial period like the one just ending to finish with one or more brief – in geological terms – spells of warming before the glaciers return.

    According to boffins based at the Helmholtz-Zentrum für Umweltforschung (UFZ) and at the Russian Academy of Sciences, in the Earth’s history thus far there have been eras where the glaciers covered much of Europe, lasting about 100,000 years. These are separated by warmer interglacial periods lasting around 10,000 years. We are currently at the end of an interglacial era called the Holocene.

    The scientists, looking into the last interglacial period – the Eemian – which ended around 115,000 years ago, say they have found that that it ended with “significant climate fluctuations” before the rule of the glaciers returned.

    The scientists got their results by examining ancient lake sediments exposed by modern open-cast mining in Russia and Germany. They believe that the end of the Eemian interglacial epoch saw “possibly at least two” warming events, according to a statement issued by the UFZ.

    Click source to read more

    Source: theregister.co.uk

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  • Pet Photography: Q & A with Ingrid Nevinger

    Ingrid1

    We have a new installment in our pet photography interview series, this time with Ingrid Nevinger of 9 Lives Photography. Ingrid specializes in cat photography, plus she volunteers her time with several cat charity organizations, helping to photograph adoptable cats, definitley putting the cats in their best light. She also put together a Blurb book, Faces of Felines Inc., with a sampling of the photos taken at this Chicago no-kill shelter.

    You have to check out Ingrid’s blog Cat Nipped, where she posts portraits of people with their cats along with a little interview about the image and the cat-human relationship.

    Ingrid also plays in a string ensemble, Elle Musique, that donates their musical services to Chicago-area animal shelters.

    Ingrid2

    How long have you been photographing pets and how did you get started?
    I’ve been photographing animals, especially cats, since I received my first point-and-shoot camera as a child. During high school and early college, I studied darkroom photography and often used my cats as models. After taking a long hiatus from photography, I picked up my first digital camera only a few years ago. Virtually every week for the last year, I’ve visited Felines Inc., a no-kill Chicago cat shelter, to photograph its many residents. Felines Inc. is such a wonderful environment. Since it is cageless the cats know each other and are completely at ease. I capture them engaged in their normal activities of playing, grooming, napping, etc. I then sell their portraits and donate the proceeds back to Felines Inc. Recently, I’ve also started photographing cats from Animal Care League in Oak Park, IL and Cats-Are-Purrsons-Too.

    What kind of pet photography do you do? Do you have a specialty?
    Feline, definitely feline (hey, I’m a “cat person!”) Although I enjoy photographing humans, dogs and assorted other subjects, my real passion is capturing the character, spirit and extraordinary beauty of cats.

    Ingrid3

    Do you do anything special to prepare for a photo shoot with a cat?
    Since every cat possesses a district personality, I first spend time sans camera “making friends” (talking, petting, playing). I wish to gain my subject’s trust, and to make him feel comfortable in my presence. Upon introducing my camera, I always let him check it out. I’ve know many a cat who’s loved to headbutt the lens and chew the strap! To engage a cat’s curiosity and appetite, I frequently bring a variety of toys and treats. I also wear clothes I don’t mind getting dirty, as I follow my subjects everywhere and often end up crawling on the floor or ground.

    What was the most challenging cat photo shoot you have done? Any funny stories?
    A friend of mine has a lovely white cat named Marshmallow. I wanted to photograph them together for my blog, Cat Nipped. My friend warned me that Marshmallow didn’t take well to strangers, but I insisted that we would hit it off. After all, I had Da Bird (a great toy which no cat had ever resisted). Well, after hour upon hour of trying to lure him out (including “ignoring” him) I had to confess that I had met my match. One day, over the course of many, many visits, I will get that shot!

    Ingrid4

    Do you have any tips for readers about how to take great photos of their cats?

    • Cats can be unpredictable, so have your camera ready and seize the moment.
    • Photograph in natural light if possible, as flash can frighten cats and cause red eye.
    • If you have the option to shoot in aperture priority or manual mode, use the widest f-stop setting on your camera (this allows more light to hit the sensor).
    • Capture your cat from every possible angle.
    • Focus on just one body part ~ a fluffy tail, single eye or outstretched paw.
    • Avoid cluttered backgrounds.
    • Focus on expression, not technical perfection.
    • Take lots of pictures (you will never regret having too many, only too few).

    Ingrid5

  • Next week on Rock Band: The White Stripes, The Futureheads, James Gang and more

    Here’s what you can expect in next weeks Rock Band music store update. Three tracks from the Indie rock duo ‘The White Stripes’ will headline the update, with singles from post-punk English rockers The Futureheads, sixties rockers

  • Hotel Dusk, Little King’s Story dev files for bankruptcy

    Sad news indeed. Japanese site Data-Max reports that Hotel Dusk and Little King’s Story developer, Cing, hs filed for bankruptcy. The company has reportedly suffered some 256 million yen worth of liabilities.
     
     
     

  • Venezuela: Importation of violent video games can land you in prison

    In Venezuela, it’s not enough to have violent video games banned from their stores. Nor is it enough to make it illegal to import these said games. No, Hugo Chavez always goes the extra mile, and he’s

  • A Cybersecurity Education: House Bill 4061

    "Now you know, and knowing is half the battle," were words spoken at the end of every G.I. Joe cartoon during the mid-1980s and served as a conclusion to public service announcements. For some reason this statement has always stayed with me and I often use the saying, typically in a sarcastic manner. But late last week and again this morning this 80s era disclaimer resonated once again after the U.S. House of Representatives passed bill 4061, "To advance cybersecurity research, development, and technical standards, and for other purposes".

  • God of War III devs: It’s always been about outdoing ourselves, not threatened by imitators

    The devs of the much-anticipated God of War III are not threatened at all by other action-adventure titles. And why should they be? They’re the obvious leaders of the pack, and for them, “Imitation is the sincerest

  • DS homebrew – fmsxDS v0.8

    Homebrew coder Nyagosu is back the DS scene to release a new version of fmsxDS, a MSX/MSX2/MSX2+ emulator for the Nintendo DS. The latest update of the brew has added some new features to improve the overall

  • S2P Music Player update to V82 Beta(March 5th)

    S2P is one of the many application that comes out of A_C’s shop, well it seems earlier this week the popular music player received an update. The update was only to his S2P application, and it brought some minor changes.

    In the list of updates, portrait and landscape Album view was disabled, along with some added enhancements. The application has not been updated since December, so this new update might be well worth it.

    v0.82 beta
    – temporarily disabled the “Album View” (both Portrait & Landscape).
    (in case you want to know more, read here)
    – added command line parameter option to playback a music or a playlist, the parameter must in FULL PATH.
    e.g. “\Program Files\S2P\s2p.exe” \Storage Card\Music\Album\music.mp3
    e.g. “\Program Files\S2P\s2p.exe” \Storage Card\Playlists\playlist.asx
    – added index bar on the artist & album lists for easy navigation.
    – added quick way to go to the top of a list: tap the top system status bar.
    – added option to set the volume control to control the system volume directly. (Settings > General)
    – fine tuned the scrolling behaviour of all lists.
    – fine tuned the option “Power Tweak”; if your device stops playback when power off, try to turn this option on.
    – fixed ASX playlist could not be identified because of UNICODE.
    – some minor bugs fixed.

    v0.80 beta
    temporarily disabled the “Album View” (both Portrait & Landscape).
    song order in the playlist can be changed.
    added “Settings” menu.
    added support to wired remote control on most HTC devices (no more calibration is required, read the FAQ for details).
    added support to AVRCP on HTC Touch Pro2/HD2.
    added option “Override WMP for remote control” in case your device remote control is hard-coded to WMP.
    added fast forward/backward when press & hold the forward/backward buttons; the pace can be tuned in the settings; S2U2 v2.30 or later also support this function.
    adjusted the “Full Screen Album” option to make use of the whole screen of WQVGA/WVGA devices.
    faster Shuffle playback.
    added option to pause the playback when headset is disconnected.
    added international languages support (for non-English devices, d/l the S2P-LanguagePack.zip; extract your language’s ini file; rename it to lang.ini; copy to the S2P installed folder; restart S2P).
    added option to show battery status in digits.
    a lot minor bugs fixed.

    Try out the newest version

  • Patent application found — for new DS cartridge?

    Could there be a new Cartridge design for Nintendo’s reported new DS model? It appears to be just the case as reports of a new patent application surfaced.
     
     
     

  • BFBC2 server issues due to overwhelming server demand – 400% more than expected

    EA DICE was apparently unprepared for the huge demand for Battlefield: Bad Company 2, so much so that the online multiplayer portion of the game keeps being hindered by server issues. You’d be unprepared too if the

  • PlayStation Arc button configuration detailed

    Interested in finding out what the button configurations are for the PlayStation Arc? Neogaf poster Ichinisan is claiming that he’s seen the latest pictures of the Arc and proceeds to describe them in full detail.