#modern software architecture

[techsagaus]

Product Engineering Services for Modern Software Solutions

Modern software solutions take a comprehensive approach to designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software products throughout their lifecycle. This covers everything from initial product ideation and strategy to post-launch support and ongoing improvements. A product engineering services company plays a vital role in this process, assisting businesses in developing robust, scalable, and user-friendly software that meets market demands and user needs. Innovation is now necessary and no longer optional.

That’s where product engineering services play a transformative role. By bridging the gap between idea and execution, these services enable organizations to launch, scale, and maintain robust software solutions in a competitive landscape. From startups aiming to disrupt markets to enterprises modernizing legacy systems, the demand for intelligent, scalable, and agile software continues to grow rapidly. Fortunately, with the right approach to product engineering, even complex ideas can be transformed into high-performing digital products.

Importance of Product Engineering for Modern Software Solutions

To begin with, product engineering services cover the entire lifecycle of a software product, from ideas and design to development, testing, deployment, and maintenance. This comprehensive approach ensures that products are not only functional and user-friendly but also scalable and ready for the future.

Moreover, these services are typically offered by specialized teams with diverse skills, allowing for agile practices, rapid prototyping, and quicker time-to-market. Whether it’s mobile apps, SaaS platforms, enterprise tools, or IoT systems, product engineering plays a vital role in building the digital foundation of modern businesses………….

[321arka]

Hello there, readers! Today, we will talk about another great plugin for SketchUp ? it is called PlusSpec and it is truly a thing of beauty.

PlusSpec was built with mostly residential construction in mind, however, it is quite capable at other types of building work as well. Partnered with RubySketch, PlusSpec is a game-winner in BIM and VDC market. Bring on the architect wars!

What is PlusSpec for SketchUp Pro

The main idea behind PlusSpec is to convert SketchUp into a fully capable Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) app. PlusSpec lets you create constructible designs and get the documentations to build them. It is a magic app that snaps together CAD and BIM, 3D design and 2D documentation, VDC and Estimation altogether!

With an astonishing turn, PlusSpec will allow you to use readily available building material specifications from real manufacturers. This information is available in the form of materials with embedded data, and when you use those materials in SketchUp, you add values automatically to your model.

Read more

[techygeekhub]

Why Scalable API Architectures Are the Backbone of Modern Software Development?

In today’s interconnected digital environment, standalone systems are no longer viable. Whether you’re building a real-time delivery platform or a multi-cloud enterprise suite, your applications need to communicate seamlessly. That’s where scalable API architecture steps in as the unsung hero.

[ajmishra]

Breaking Down Monoliths: Power of Microservices Architecture

Discover how Microservices Architecture is transforming software development with increased scalability, flexibility, and faster deployment in our latest blog. Learn more now! Breaking Down Monoliths: Power of Microservices Architecture

[prototechsolutionsblog]

Top 5 Architectural Drafting Software for Modern Architects

In the fast-evolving world of architecture, having the right tools can make all the difference. Architectural drafting software has revolutionized the way architects design, plan, and visualize their projects. With the advent of digital drafting tools, modern architects can now create detailed and accurate designs more efficiently than ever before. In this blog post, we'll explore the top five architectural drafting software that every modern architect should consider.

1. AutoCAD

Overview: AutoCAD, developed by Autodesk, is one of the most widely used drafting software in the architecture industry. Known for its precision and versatility, AutoCAD offers a comprehensive set of tools for 2D and 3D design, drafting, and modeling.

Key Features:

Extensive Toolset: AutoCAD provides a vast array of tools for creating detailed drawings, including lines, arcs, circles, and more. It also supports complex geometric shapes and 3D modeling.

Customizability: Users can customize the interface, create custom tool palettes, and automate repetitive tasks using scripts and macros.

Collaboration: AutoCAD supports cloud-based collaboration, allowing team members to work on the same project simultaneously and share updates in real-time.

Compatibility: The software is compatible with a wide range of file formats, making it easy to import and export designs.

Why Architects Love It: AutoCAD's precision and comprehensive toolset make it ideal for creating detailed architectural drawings. Its widespread use in the industry also means that architects can easily collaborate with other professionals using the same software.

2. Revit

Overview: Also developed by Autodesk, Revit is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software that goes beyond traditional drafting by integrating design and construction information into a single, coherent model.

Key Features:

BIM Integration: Revit allows architects to create a digital representation of a building's physical and functional characteristics, which helps in visualizing and analyzing the project.

Parametric Components: The software uses parametric components, meaning that any changes made to a model automatically update related elements, ensuring consistency.

Collaboration and Coordination: Revit supports multi-disciplinary collaboration, making it easier for architects, engineers, and contractors to work together.

Sustainability Analysis: The software includes tools for energy analysis and sustainability assessment, helping architects design environmentally friendly buildings.

Why Architects Love It: Revit's BIM capabilities allow for a more integrated approach to building design, reducing errors and improving efficiency. Its ability to visualize every aspect of a project makes it a powerful tool for architects who want to create sustainable and well-coordinated designs.

3. SketchUp

Overview: SketchUp is a user-friendly 3D modeling software known for its simplicity and versatility. It is particularly popular among architects for creating conceptual designs and visualizations.

Key Features:

Ease of Use: SketchUp's intuitive interface and simple tools make it accessible to beginners, while its powerful modeling capabilities cater to professionals.

3D Warehouse: The software provides access to an extensive library of pre-made 3D models, including furniture, buildings, and landscaping elements.

Plugins and Extensions: SketchUp supports a wide range of plugins and extensions that enhance its functionality, such as rendering, animation, and analysis tools.

Cloud Collaboration: SketchUp offers cloud-based collaboration, allowing teams to share and review designs easily.

Why Architects Love It: SketchUp's ease of use and flexibility make it an excellent tool for quickly creating and iterating on design concepts. Its extensive library of models and plugins also adds to its versatility.

4. ArchiCAD

Overview: ArchiCAD, developed by Graphisoft, is another leading BIM software widely used in the architecture industry. It offers a comprehensive set of tools for designing buildings and managing building information.

Key Features:

Integrated Design Environment: ArchiCAD integrates all aspects of building design, from 2D drafting to 3D modeling and documentation, in a single platform.

Collaborative Workflow: The software supports a collaborative workflow, allowing multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously.

Visualization Tools: ArchiCAD includes advanced visualization tools, such as photorealistic rendering and virtual reality, to help architects present their designs.

Interoperability: The software supports various file formats, making it easy to share data with other software and stakeholders.

Why Architects Love It: ArchiCAD's robust BIM capabilities and collaborative features make it a top choice for complex building projects. Its visualization tools also help architects effectively communicate their ideas to clients and stakeholders.

5. Vectorworks Architect

Overview: Vectorworks Architect is a versatile design software that combines BIM and CAD capabilities. It is known for its robust modeling tools and flexibility in handling different types of projects.

Key Features:

Flexible Design Process: Vectorworks Architect allows architects to design in 2D and 3D simultaneously, providing flexibility in the design process.

Comprehensive Toolset: The software includes tools for drafting, modeling, rendering, and documentation, making it a one-stop solution for architectural design.

Data Integration: Vectorworks Architect supports the integration of data from various sources, including GIS and IFC, for better project coordination.

Visualization and Presentation: The software offers advanced rendering and presentation tools, enabling architects to create high-quality visualizations.

Why Architects Love It: Vectorworks Architect's flexibility and comprehensive toolset make it suitable for a wide range of architectural projects. Its ability to integrate data from different sources also enhances project coordination and accuracy.

Conclusion

Choosing the right architectural drafting software is crucial for modern architects. The software tools mentioned above AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, ArchiCAD, and Vectorworks Architect—offer a range of features and capabilities that cater to different aspects of architectural design. Whether you are looking for precise drafting, comprehensive BIM integration, or flexible 3D modeling, there is a software option that can meet your needs. As technology continues to evolve, these tools will undoubtedly play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of architecture.

[shiolog]

It never stops amazing me how we went from this for CAD to the iPad Pro (and arguably AI) in 3 decades or so!

[qtoconstrution786]

If you’re a designer, architect, or engineer, you’ve probably used SketchUp at some point in your career. SketchUp is a powerful tool that allows you to create 3D models quickly and easily. One of the most useful features of SketchUp is the ability to create an exploded view of your model.

What is an Exploded Model View?

An exploded view is a 3D representation of an object that shows its individual components separated from each other. It is commonly used to illustrate the assembly or disassembly of a product. An exploded view can be very helpful in understanding how a complex object is put together, and it can also be used as a reference when assembling the object.

Benefits of Exploded Model Views

There are several benefits to creating an exploded view of your model. First, it can help you identify any errors or issues with your design. Second, it can be used as a reference when assembling your object. Finally, an exploded view can be used to create instructional materials or technical documentation.

Steps to Create an Exploded Model View in SketchUp

To create an exploded view in SketchUp, follow these steps:

Read Continue

[vax-official]

Back in an era when computers were the size of a room and only government agencies and large companies could afford to have one, IBM was king of the mainframes. But they had a lineup of several incompatible computers, some intended for scientific uses (the IBM 7090/7094), others were for commercial uses (the IBM 7080 and IBM 7010). IBM wanted to have a single unified architecture so that software could be exchanged between them and customers could upgrade from cheaper, lower powered machines to more higher powered ones.

What came out of it was the IBM System/360 line of mainframes (referring to the concept of "360 degrees" making up a circle) that ended up being the dominant mainframe computer for decades to come, it got cloned by competitors, and its descendants are still being produced to this day.

The IBM System/360 had many features that since then became foundational for modern computing.

An entirely binary number system. While some computers (such as the IBM 7090) used a binary system, others operated exclusively in decimal mode, encoded using binary coded decimals using 4 bits for each digit (such as the IBM 7080 and IBM 7010). Others went a step further and were only capable of storing decimal digits 0 to 9 (like the IBM 7070).

To store textual information, each character was stored in 8 bits, establishing the dominance of 8 bit bytes. Previous systems would typically use 6 bits to store text, and would usually only enable a single case of letters. The IBM 7070 didn't provide access to bits and characters were stored in 2 decimal digits. It was also one of the first machines to support the then new ASCII standard, although notably it provided much better support for IBM's proprietary EBCDIC encodings which came to dominate mainframe computing.

Even though it was a 32-bit system, memory was byte addressed. Previous systems would access memory one word at a time (for the IBM 7090, this was 36 bits per word, for the IBM 7010, this was 10 digits plus a sign), or had variable length words and accessed them through their last digits (IBM 7080 and IBM 7010). The IBM System/360 however accessed 32-bit words as 4 bytes by their lowest address byte.

Two's complement arithmetic. Previous machines (even the binary IBM 7090) would encode numbers as sign/magnitude pairs, so for example -3 would be encoded identically to 3 except for the sign bit. Two's complement encoding, now the standard in modern computers, makes it much easier to handle signed arithmetic, by storing -3 as a large power of 2 minus 3.

[adafruit]

🎄💾🗓️ Day 15: Retrocomputing Advent Calendar - BBC Micro🎄💾🗓️⌨️🇬🇧

The BBC Micro was an 8-bit microcomputer introduced in 1981 by Acorn Computers under the BBC Computer Literacy Project of the UK, launched with a 6502A processor running at 2 MHz, supported 16 KB to 32 KB of RAM, and featuring a BASIC environment. The machine was versatile, having very good-for-its-time graphics and multi-colors. Expansion capability for educational and experimental use with an assortment of I/O ports, which included a 1 MHz bus, user port, and cassette interface.

The BBC Micro was known for its reliability and emphasis on teaching programming and computer science. The system software, Acorn MOS, was simple and intuitive. With peripherals such as floppy drives and second processors, it performed tasks well beyond its initial use and extended its lifetime by at least a decade or more.

The BBC Micro also pushed forward a lot of gaming and software since this open architecture inspired a thriving community of developers. It also played a big role in the development of the ARM architecture by Acorn Computers, which would change the way modern computers are made in years to come. The BBC Micro has a special place in computing history, which expanded education and brought computing to schools and society through the 1980s.

Have first computer memories? Post’em up in the comments, or post yours on socialz’ and tag them #firstcomputer #retrocomputing – See you back here tomorrow!

[verilog-official]

its fascinating how Gentoo can run on a 486. a completely modern operating system running on a CPU from 1989.

and theoretically you can run any software on it because you can just compile it targeting the 486, theoretically. even running like Firefox, assuming you have enough RAM.

hell, you might even be able to get it to run on a Motorola 68000, which is 10 years older than the 486, and Gentoo runs on it! though idk if lots of modern software could run on it because it's a completely different architecture. theoretically it should be possible tho

[cinderella-ish]

If you know anyone who writes music, today has probably been a very crappy day for them.

Finale, one of the most dominant programs for music notation for the past 35 years, is coming to an end. They’re no longer updating it or allowing people to purchase it, and it won’t be possible to authorize on new devices or if you upgrade your OS.

I’ve personally been using Finale to write music for about 20 years (since middle school!). It’s not something that I depend on for money, and my work should be compatible with other programs, so I’ll be fine, but this is very, very bad news for lots of people who depend on this software for their livelihood.

(cut added so info added to reblogs doesn't get buried!)

The shittiest thing is that this was preventable. From a comment on Finale’s post:

As a former Tech Lead on Finale (2019-2021) I can tell you this future was avoidable. Those millions of lines of code were old and crufty, and myself and others recognized something had to be done. So we created a plan to modernize the code base, focusing on making it easier to deliver the next few rounds of features. I encouraged product leadership to put together a feature roadmap so our team could identify where the modernization effort should be focused.

We had a high level architecture roadmap, and a low level strategy to modernize basic technologies to facilitate more precise unit testing. The plan was to create smart interfaces in the code to allow swapping out old UI architecture for a more modern, reliable, and better maintained toolset that would grow with us rather than against us.

But in the end it became clear support wasn’t coming from upper management for this effort.

I’m sad to see Finale end this way.

Finale also could allow people who own the software to move it to their new devices in the future, but Capitalism. It’s a pointless corporate IP decision that only hurts users.

There are three main options for those of us who are having to switch: Dorico, MuseScore, or Sibelius.

Sibelius has been Finale’s main competitor for as long as I can remember. It currently runs on a subscription model (ew). The programs are about equal in terms of their capabilities, though I’ve heard Finale has more options for experimental notation. (I’ve used both; Finale worked better for my workflow, but that’s probably just because I grew up using it.)

Dorico is the hip new kid and I’d personally been considering switching for quite a while, but it’s ungodly expensive (about twice what Finale cost at full price). Thankfully, they are allowing current Finale users to purchase at a price comparable (well, still 50% higher) to what Finale used to cost with the educator discount. It apparently has a very steep learning curve at first, though it is probably the best option for experimental notation.

MuseScore is open source, which is awesome! But it also has the most limitations for people who write using experimental notation.

I haven’t used MuseScore or Dorico and will probably end up switching to one of those, but it’s also not an urgent matter for me. Keep your musician friends in your thoughts; it’s going to be a rough road ahead if they used Finale.

[relebook]

Blend Tradition with Modernity in Your 3D Projects!

Introducing our Modern Japanese-style Rural Courtyard Landscape Model, a perfect fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary design. This model is ideal for creating serene, culturally rich environments that captivate and inspire.

Key Features:

Harmonious Design: Combines traditional Japanese elements like Zen gardens, wooden structures, and water features with modern landscaping touches.

Versatile Use: Perfect for architectural visualizations, game environments, animations, and cinematic projects.

Universal Compatibility: Fully compatible with Blender, Cinema4D, Maya, 3ds Max, and other major 3D software.

Rendering-Ready: Optimized for high-quality 3D rendering, ensuring stunning visual results.

Ideal For:

Architects & Designers: Showcase unique blends of traditional and modern Japanese design in your projects.

Game Developers: Build immersive, culturally rich environments for exploration or storytelling.

Animators & Filmmakers: Create serene, nature-inspired scenes for cinematic storytelling.

Download the Modern Japanese-style Rural Courtyard Landscape Model today and bring a touch of timeless elegance and modern sophistication to your 3D creations!

[bmv1]

Custom Prints: How to Choose Printers That Align with Your Architectural Needs

In the architecture industry, the quality of printed materials significantly impacts the presentation and execution of projects. Various printing technologies are available to meet these needs. How can architects ensure they choose the right printer that aligns perfectly with their requirements? This challenge is crucial for maintaining high standards in architectural work.

This guide will help you steer the options available, highlighting the critical factors to consider. Selecting the ideal printer for architectural uses involves understanding the different types of plotters and their capabilities. Each type offers distinctive benefits depending on the specific needs of your projects.

Understanding Plotter Printers

They are indispensable in architecture because they can handle large-format prints essential for detailed architectural drawings and blueprints. These produce crisp, high-resolution images on large paper sizes, crucial for detailed work. When choosing a plotter, it’s essential to consider the types available:

Pen plotters use pens to draw on paper. They are great for high precision but generally slower than their modern counterparts.

The Inkjet plotter’s spray ink allows for a broader range of colours and faster output. They are suited for both high-quality presentations and standard drafts.

Laser Printers for Fast Outputs

Laser printers might be the way to go for architects needing quicker print jobs for client meetings or internal reviews. These are not typically used for large format prints but are excellent for smaller, high-volume tasks where speed is critical. They deliver fast and reliable outputs, although with a slight compromise on the fine detail that plotters can achieve.

Key Features to Consider

Resolution and Quality

The resolution of a printer dictates the clarity and detail of the printed document. High-resolution printers are essential in architecture because they ensure that every line and detail of the sketches and plans is visible and clear. Generally, a higher DPI (dots per inch) rating indicates better resolution.

Speed and Efficiency

Time is often a constraint in project deliveries, making a printer’s speed another vital consideration. However, the choice should carefully balance speed and quality, as some fast printers may sacrifice detail for quicker output. Evaluate its speed in the context of typical project sizes and deadlines.

Media Handling

Architectural printing often requires different media types, ranging from thick card stocks to glossy-finish papers for high-quality presentations. Ensure the printer can handle the diversity of media you use in your practice. Check for the maximum and minimum paper sizes and whether the printer supports roll-fed or sheet-fed options.

Cost Considerations

Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Costs

Printers come with varying price tags; often, higher-priced models offer greater versatility and quality. However, the ongoing operating costs, such as ink or toner, maintenance, and paper, must be considered. A cheaper one can lead to higher long-term expenses due to inefficient ink usage or frequent maintenance needs.

Ink or Toner Expenses

Depending on the type, the ink or toner cost can significantly affect the overall cost of ownership. Plotters typically use ink, which can be pricey, especially if it is inefficient. On the other hand, toner used in laser printers might be less expensive per page, especially for high-volume printing.

Connectivity and Software Integration

Ease of Use and Compatibility

A printer’s compatibility with existing architectural software is crucial in today’s digital-focused workflow. Seamlessly integrating with software like AutoCAD, Revit, or other design tools can streamline the printing process, reducing errors and saving time.

Network Connectivity

Consider printers with built-in network capabilities that allow multiple users to access it across the office network. Wireless printing and cloud capabilities are additional features that enhance flexibility, enabling you to print from various devices or even remotely.

Environmental Impact

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

With an improving focus on sustainability in architecture, the environmental impact of your office equipment should be noticed. Look for printers with energy-saving features and those that meet environmental standards like ENERGY STAR. Additionally, consider the ones that offer features like automatic duplex printing to save on paper.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right printer involves weighing various factors, from print quality and speed to cost and environmental impact. By understanding the specific demands of your architectural projects and how different printers meet those needs, you can select a printer that fits your budget and enhances your firm’s productivity and output quality. The right one becomes invaluable in bringing architectural visions to life, ensuring every print reflects the precision and detail your projects deserve.

By considering the detailed needs of your practice—including the different types of plotters available—you can choose a printer that not only meets but enhances your professional output. A well-chosen one will serve as a reliable tool that supports your creative process, ensures high standards are maintained, and ultimately contributes to the satisfaction of your clients. Invest wisely, and your chosen printer will prove integral to the precision and efficiency of your architectural endeavours.

[motorspexx]

At the 2025 24 Hours of Le Mans, Porsche unveiled a unique one-off vehicle: the Porsche 963 RSP. Developed as a tribute to the legendary 917 and inspired by Count Rossi’s 1975 street-driven prototype, the 963 RSP is based on Porsche’s LMDh competition car but reimagined for public roads under special conditions.

The project was a collaboration between Porsche AG, Porsche Penske Motorsport, and Porsche Cars North America, with direct involvement from Roger Penske—whose initials form the RSP name. The concept was initiated as a design study and passion project, eventually culminating in a street-legal prototype unveiled near Circuit de la Sarthe.

The 963 RSP retains the race-spec 4.6-liter twin-turbocharged V8 hybrid powertrain, delivering up to 680 horsepower. Originally developed for the RS Spyder and later refined in the 918 Spyder, the engine architecture includes a flat crankshaft, short stroke, and Van der Lee turbochargers for optimized throttle response. The hybrid system uses a Bosch motor generator unit and a Williams Advanced Engineering battery, working with a 7-speed Xtrac sequential gearbox. For road use, the power delivery was remapped to be smoother, and the system was configured to run on pump fuel.

To comply with road operation under French regulation, the chassis was adjusted with raised ride height, softened Multimatic dampers, and revised software to enable functioning headlights, taillights, and turn signals. Michelin rain-spec tires were mounted on 18-inch forged OZ wheels. Unique modifications such as covered wheel arches, a working horn, and license plate mounts were added.

Visually, the 963 RSP is finished in Martini Silver paint—not a wrap—requiring a triple-layer lacquer on ultra-thin Kevlar® and carbon fiber surfaces. An enamel Porsche crest replaces the standard nose graphic, and 1970s Michelin branding adds a period-correct touch. The rear features a 3D-printed “963 RSP” badge.

The interior departs sharply from the competition car. Trimmed in tan leather and Alcantara, it includes a cushioned, leather-wrapped carbon seat, air conditioning, a leather-finished steering wheel, and even a detachable 3D-printed cup holder. Storage space is provided for a laptop, headset, and Roger Penske’s custom carbon helmet. Ventilation outlets mimic the 917’s engine fan design, reinforcing historical continuity.

While the 963 RSP is not homologated for mass production, it is fully operational and authorized for limited road use under manufacturer permissions. Following its debut, the vehicle will appear at the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart and the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

This project showcases Porsche’s ability to blend heritage, engineering, and bespoke craftsmanship—all within the limits of a modern endurance prototype.

Porsche 963 RSP – Technical Specifications

Model name: Porsche 963 RSP Type: Road-legal high-performance prototype Chassis: Carbon-fiber monocoque (LMP2-based, by Multimatic) Length: 5100 mm Width: 2000 mm Height: 1060 mm Wheelbase: 3148 mm Weight: Approximately 1030 kg

Engine type: Twin-turbocharged 4.6-liter V8 Engine code: 9RD (derived from Porsche 918 Spyder) Max engine power: Over 515 kW (approximately 700 PS) Max RPM: Over 8000 rpm Turbo boost: Approximately 0.3 bar (2 turbos)

Hybrid system: Bosch MGU with 1.35 kWh battery from Williams Total combined power output: 520 kW (707 PS, regulated) Drive system: Rear-wheel drive Transmission: 7-speed Xtrac sequential gearbox Clutch: Carbon-fiber racing clutch

Top speed: Over 330 km/h Suspension: Pushrod double wishbone with adjustable dampers Brakes: Carbon racing brakes with regenerative hybrid system Wheels: 18–19 inch race wheels adapted for road use

Fuel type: Synthetic or biofuel compatible Emissions: Modified for street approval Street modifications: Lighting, mirrors, exhaust system, license plate mounts

Interior: Stripped-down, race-focused with minimal comfort features Production: One-off road-legal concept

[genericpuff]

Let me preface this: I'm an architecture major

I used to be a big LO fan but obviously fell out of love of it like a lot of us did, and I know LO uses SketchUp for backgrounds. That is not an issue I have with the comic or any comic, I want artists to have an easier time in any way they can. I was always under the impression Rachel imported the models into Photoshop and drew over them like you can see in the early episodes with the sketchy lines. Well, school just started recently for me and I now have access to SketchUp for my coursework, and I made a few discoveries: 1. Photoshop cannot read SketchUp files, and while you can import them into Clip Studio through some configuring, they can be finicky and will lose parts in the importing process, so they are best used into the original SketchUp program to export as PNGs. 2. Many of the models Rachel uses are incredibly easy to find, especially if you put "modern", "luxury", or "classy" before the main part of the search. Many of the houses and rooms for example are first page results. 3. The biggest discovery: You know how we all assumed Rachel was hand-drawing all the lines over the SketchUp models and how she gave up the longer LO went on? Well, it's actually worse. It turns out SketchUp has a thing called "Styles" in it, which means you can mess with the lines and look of the model, such as making it look more like a blueprint or playing with the colors. Well, they have a lot of styles on SketchUp known as "sketchy lines", which are the exact ones Rachel used early in the comic to fit with her style, and it takes a literal click of a button to do. All she would do is pose the model, click the sketchy line style, and export the PNG. That's it. So, yeah, Rachel is so checked out of the comic that she can't even bother to click a single button to make the models fit into the comic's style anymore. Use that information however you like.

Ouhhh sorry OP, I'm about to like, undo all the work you just put into that ask. We've already known about the 3D background problem for a long while now.

First off, it's more likely LO doesn't use SketchUp but actually Acon3D, which is a website that offers 3D models both for free and at cost, which are actually compatible with software like Clip Studio. As soon as you open it up you'll likely see a lot of very familiar backgrounds that are often used in romances, isekais, and period pieces. It's literally the go-to spot for Webtoon Originals creators. Like, to the point that I wouldn't be surprised if Naver was partnered with them because of how many of their creators use it.

Second, there's plenty of up-to-date evidence to support the fact that Rachel doesn't exclusively stick to one software, sometimes she's drawing in Photoshop, sometimes she's drawing in Clip Studio Paint, sometimes she's drawing in Procreate. She's undoubtedly using Clip Studio for her paneling, speech bubbles, and backgrounds, as there are built in tools to utilize and convert 3D materials into lineart, among other features that are recognizable as coming from CSP because they're not available in PS or Procreate.

Third, yes, she just uses filters to turn her backgrounds into lineart, this has been apparent since S1. The only backgrounds she's ever 'hand drawn' were the ones involving lots of nature and even those are mostly just Photoshop brushes stamped on.

Like I realize I'm probably bursting your bubble here and I apologize for that lmao but these buildings were never hand-drawn, this is not new information (￣﹏￣；) I appreciate you mentioning your own experiences with it as you're learning it though, I find once you start to learn the process yourself you really start to notice what others are doing. Even I've gone through that over the past couple years as I started to use 3D models and more advanced tools specifically for drawing webtoons.

I will mention btw, there's nothing wrong with using 3D models for your character drawing and backgrounds. The only time it tends to get frustrating is when you're reading a comic that isn't making any attempts to blend the background in with the art style.

Like, The Kiss Bet probably uses 3D models to help with perspective and laying out scenes quickly without second-guessing, but you can tell they still hand-draw over the models because they look natural and like they belong to the comic's stylization. The characters don't look out of place sitting in a living room and the living room doesn't look distracting.

But then you get stuff like Lore Olympus, Let's Play, and Midnight Poppy Land, and it becomes a bit more obvious they're not giving a shit about backgrounds lmao

I get it, WT's deadlines are cutthroat as fuck, but if it's getting to the point that you have an entire team behind you and you're literally just copy pasting video game models from Phantom Hourglass, then it's probably time to re-focus your priorities a bit. There are comics with as few as 1-2 assistants (and even in some cases no assistants at all!!) pulling off backgrounds better than this, even when they're taking shortcuts.

(Nevermore and City of Blank)

But a lot of that does come down to how WT manages its expectations as well as support for their creators. The deadlines and requirements WT puts their creators under are insane and awful in the long-term, and they're not acting with the amount of professionalism they ought to be for a platform that's trying to breakout as a major publisher here in the West. I feel like it comes down to WT loosening the choke chain around their creators, but also creating a standardized level of quality to ensure it's not suffering for the sake of quantity. The traditional literature industry has real editors and stages of quality control for a reason, whereas WT is more interested in just throwing as many series at the wall and dumping all their stock into the ones that stick.

[usafphantom2]

U.S. Air Force Testing New Sensors On The F-22

The F-22 recently tested multiple new sensors as part of the modernization, with plans for a rapid prototyping effort to field them and expand the capabilities of the jet.

Stefano D'Urso

F-22 new sensors

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors assigned to the 27th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron and Philippine Air Force FA-50PH light jet fighters conduct joint combined exchange training, above Basa Air Force Base, Philippines, on Aug. 9, 2024. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mitchell Corley)

The U.S. Air Force is testing multiple new advanced sensors on the F-22 Raptor, which could extend its service life and also be applied to systems of the Next Generation Air Dominance family. The info was disclosed during the Life Cycle Industry Days conference.

“The F-22 team is working really hard on executing a modernization roadmap to field advanced sensors, connectivity, weapons, and other capabilities,” said Brig. Gen. Jason D. Voorheis, Program Executive Officer for Fighters and Advanced Aircraft. “The Raptor team recently conducted six flight test efforts to demo advanced sensors.”

Voorheis also added that the service is planning for a rapid prototyping effort to get these sensors fielded quickly. “We’re executing that successfully, and that will lead to […] a rapid fielding in the near future,” he said.

The news was first reported by Air and Space Forces Magazine, which also added that Air Force officials have also confirmed that the stealthy pods seen since last year being tested on the F-22 are indeed InfraRed Search and Track (IRST) sensors. The development of a new IRST sensor for the Raptor was also confirmed by the service’s budget document, however they did not mention the sensor being podded.

The sensors are part of an upgrade program worth $ 7.8 billion before 2030, of which $ 3.1 billion are for research and development and the remaining $ 4.7 billion are for procurement. This is in contrast with previous statements that the Air Force was looking to retire the F-22 around 2030.

“From an F-22 sunsetting perspective, I don’t have a date for you,” said Voorheis when asked about the topic. “What I can tell you is that we are hyper-focused on modernization to sustain that air superiority combat capability for a highly contested environment for as long as necessary.”

This also reflects recent comments by Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach, head of Air Combat Command, who mentioned that the service should retain also the older F-22s in the Block 20 configuration, together with the latest ones. The General added that several upgrades are being planned and even the older Block 20s are still very capable, should they be needed for combat in an emergency.

An F-22 Raptor assigned to the 1st Fighter Wing, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, approaches the boom of a 134th Air Refueling Wing KC-135R Stratotanker to refuel along the east coast of the United States Aug. 14, 2024. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Teri Eicher)

Voorheis also mentioned a software being integrated on the Raptor, which he defined as Government Reference Architecture Compute Environment, or “GRACE.” He further explained this open architecture software would allow “non-traditional F-22 software” to be installed on the aircraft and provide “additional processing and pilot interfaces.”

It’s unclear if the new GRACE is related to Project FOX, the innovation project tested last year which allowed to integrate on the F-35 software applications developed for the F-22. This allowed both 5th gen fighters to fly with common tactical software applications.

The F-22 upgrades

Some of the upgrades expected for the F-22 Raptor were unveiled in the Fiscal Year 23 budget request documentation and in an official artwork shared by Gen. Mark Kelly, then Commander of Air Combat Command. In the artwork we can see three Raptors loaded with new stealthy external fuel tanks, two underwing faceted pods and a new unknown air-to-air missile, but there are even more novelties in the documents, which unveils a previously undisclosed relationship between the F-22 and the development of the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD).

Two years after the upgrades were announced, we might have gotten, earlier this year, the first glimpse of the new stealthy external fuel tanks being developed for the F-22 Raptor. The aircraft was, in fact, spotted near the Mojave Air and Space Port and shows the Raptor with two fuel tanks, whose shape is reminiscent of the one shown in 2022.

The new tanks are officially known as Low Drag Tank and Pylon (LDTP) and designed to be stealthier and more aerodynamically efficient than the current 600-gallon fuel tanks. In the FY2023 budget request, the Air Force mentioned that the F-22 LDTPs are advanced technological designs providing increased persistence and range while maintaining lethality and survivability, critical to future mission execution and to maintaining Air Superiority.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Samuel “RaZZ” Larson, F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team commander and pilot, practices different maneuvers while training for the upcoming 2023 airshow season, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, Jan. 6, 2023. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Mikaela Smith)

The low drag tanks are intended to reduce drag, facilitate supersonic flight with external tanks and extend the range of the F-22. The pylons are equipped with smart rack pneumatic technology to accurately control ejection performance and smooth wind swept surface for minimum drag without stores.

The two pods installed under the outer underwing hardpoints have already been spotted during flight testing on an F-22 at the Air Force’s Plant 42 facility in Palmdale, California, in February 2022. The latest budget documents mention an InfraRed Search and Track (IRST) sensor being developed for the F-22, which is now confirmed to be the sensor housed inside the two pods, although they could host also other capabilities in addition to the IRST.

In July 2024 we got an up-close look at one of the pods installed under a Rockwell Sabreliner 65 testbed after a test campaign at Nellis AFB, Nevada. It would have been expected to see some kind of transparent surface associated with the IRST, however the surfaces on the nose of the pod appeared to be opaque. We still cannot exclude that there are two different variants of the pod, depending on the equipment inside.

The last upgrade featured in the artwork is a new unknown air-to-air missile. While there are a number of air-to-air missile programs in the works, it is possible that the one in the image could be a representative design, which may or may not correspond to the real deal, for the highly secretive AIM-260 missile. So far, the missile has never been depicted in any kind of image and details about the program are very scarce.

The development of the AIM-260, also called Joint Advanced Tactical Missile, was first unveiled in 2019 and has been in the works at least since 2017. The goal of the new long-range air-to-air missile is to replace the AIM-120 AMRAAM (Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile) and counter the threat posed by the Chinese PL-15 missile, while avoiding any foreign threats being able to outrange the AIM-120.

Among the few known technical details, the new missile will be compatible with the AMRAAM dimensions, but obviously with greater range, and is planned to be carried in the F-22 weapons bay and on the F/A-18 at first, with the F-35 to follow. Flight tests are already in progress and the missile is expected to be fielded by next year. Because of these reasons, it would be reasonable to suppose that the one shown in the image could be at least a hint at the AIM-260.

Other upgrades mentioned in the budget request are a Mode 5 Identification Friend or Foe (IFF), Link 16 and Multifunction Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio System (MIDS JTRS), a new Operational Fight Program, advanced radar Electronic Protection, Embedded GPS/Inertial Navigation System (INS) Modernization (EGI-M), Open System Architecture (OSA), new encrypted radios.

File photo of the U.S. Air Force’s 5th gen aircraft, the F-22 and the F-35. (Photo: U.S. Air Force)

A new helmet is also being tested by F-22 pilots, as part of the Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet program to replace the current HGU-55P helmet, which has been the standard issued helmet for the last 40 years. The goal is to provide pilots a more comfortable, stable, and balanced platform to accommodate helmet-mounted devices usage without imposing neck strain and discomfort to the user.

Despite various integration efforts in the past, the F-22 is not equipped yet with a helmet that provides the essential flight and weapon aiming information through line of sight imagery: the shape of the Raptor’s canopy, optimized to preserve Low Observability, doesn’t allow enough range of motion and minimum visibility to a pilot wearing the JHMCS or the Scorpion.

About Stefano D'Urso

Stefano D'Urso is a freelance journalist and contributor to TheAviationist based in Lecce, Italy. A graduate in Industral Engineering he's also studying to achieve a Master Degree in Aerospace Engineering. Electronic Warfare, Loitering Munitions and OSINT techniques applied to the world of military operations and current conflicts are among his areas of expertise.

@The Aviationist.com