#Advance Horizontal Alignment

[anyataylorjoys]

Someone asked me how I created the fade transition in this gifset which I’ll try to explain in the most comprehensive way that I can. If you've never done something like this before, I suggest reading through the full tutorial before attempting it so you know what you'll need to plan for.

To follow, you should have:

basic knowledge of how to make gifs in photoshop

some familiarity with the concept of how keyframes work

patience

Difficulty level: Moderate/advanced

Prep + overview

First and foremost, make the two gifs you'll be using. Both will need to have about the same amount of frames.

For ref the gif in my example is 540x540.

I recommend around 60-70 frames max total for a big gif, which can be pushing it if both are in color, then I would aim for 50-60. My gif has a total of 74 frames which I finessed using lossy and this will be explained in Part 4.

⚠️ IMPORTANT: when overlaying two or more gifs and when using key frames, you MUST set your frame delay to 0.03 fps for each gif, which can be changed to 0.05 fps or anything else that you want after converting the combined canvas back into frames. But both gifs have to be set to 0.03 before you convert them to timeline to avoid duplicated frames that don't match up, resulting in an unpleasantly choppy finish.

Part 1: Getting Started

Drag one of your gifs onto the other so they're both on the same canvas.

The gif that your canvas is fading FROM (Gif 1) should be on top of the gif it is fading INTO (Gif 2).

And here's a visual of the order in which your layers should appear by the end of this tutorial, so you know what you're working toward achieving:

Part 2: Creating the grid

Go to: View > Guides > New guide layout

I chose 5 columns and 5 rows to get the result of 25 squares.

The more rows and columns you choose, the more work you'll have to do, and the faster your squares will have to fade out so keep that in mind. I wouldn't recommend any more than 25 squares for this type of transition.

To save time, duplicate the line you've created 3 more times, or as many times as needed (key shortcut: CMD +J) and move each one to align with the guides both horizontally and vertically. You won't need to recreate the lines on the edges of the canvas, only the ones that will show.

After you complete this step, you will no longer need the guides so you can go back in and clear them.

Follow the same duplicating process for the squares with the rectangle tool using the lines you've created.

Align the squares inside the grid lines. The squares should not overlap the lines but fit precisely inside them.

This might take a few tries for each because although to the eye, the squares look all exactly the same size, you'll notice that if you try to use the same duplicated square for every single one without alterations, many of them will be a few pixels off and you'll have to transform the paths to fit.

To do this go to edit > transform path and hold down the command key with the control key as you move one edge to fill the space.

Once you're done, put all the squares in their separate group, which needs to be sandwiched between Gif 1 and Gif 2.

Right click Gif 1 and choose "create clipping mask" from the drop down to mask it to the squares group. This step is super important.

After this point, I also took the opacity of the line groups down to about 40% so the lines wouldn't be so bold. Doing this revealed some squares that needed fixing so even if you aren't going dim the lines, I recommend clicking off the visibility of the lines for a moment to make sure everything is covered properly.

Part 3A: Prep For Key framing

I wanted my squares to fade out in a random-like fashion and if you want the same effect, you will have to decide which squares you want to fade out first, or reversely, which parts of Gif 2 you want to be revealed first.

In order to see what's going on underneath, I made Gif 1 invisible and turned down the opacity of the squares group.

If you want text underneath to be revealed when the squares fade away, I would add that now, and place the text group above Gif 2, but under the squares group.

Make a mental note that where your text is placed and the order in which it will be revealed is also something you will have to plan for.

With the move tool, click on the first square you want to fade out. Every time you click on a square, it will reveal itself in your layers.

I chose A3 to be the first square to fade and I'm gonna move this one to the very top of all the other square layers.

So if I click on D2 next, that layer would need to be moved under the A3 layer and so on. You'll go back and forth between doing this and adding key frames to each one. As you go along, it's crucial that you put them in order from top to bottom and highly suggested that you rename the layers (numerically for example) which will make it easier to see where you've left off as your dragging the layers into place.

Part 3B: Adding the Keyframes

This is where we enter the gates of hell things become tedious.

Open up the squares group in the timeline panel so you can see all the clips.

Here is my example of the general pattern that's followed and its corresponding layers of what you want to achieve when you're finished:

So let’s try it!

Expand the control time magnification all the way to the right so you can see every frame per second.

As shown in Part 3A, select your first chosen square.

Where you place the time-indicator on the panel will indicate the placement of the keyframe. Click on the clock next to opacity to place your first keyframe.

Move the time-indicator over 3 frames and place the next key frame.

Things to consider before moving forward:

Where you place your very first keyframe will be detrimental. If you're using a lot of squares like I did, you may have to start the transition sooner than preferred.

If you're doing 25 squares, the key frames will have to be more condensed which means more overlapping because more frames are required to finish the transition, verses if you're only using a 9-squared grid. See Part 4 for more detailed examples of this.

The opacity will remain at 100% for every initial key frame, and the second one will be at 0%.

Instead of creating two keyframes like this and changing the opacities for every single clip, you can copy the keyframes and paste them onto the other clips by click-dragging your mouse over both of them and they'll both turn yellow. Then right click one of the keyframes and hit copy.

Now drop down to your next clip, move your time-indicator if necessary to the spot where the first keyframe will start and click the clock to create one. Then right click it and hit "paste".

Tip: When you have both keyframes selected, you can also move them side to side by click-dragging one of them while both are highlighted.

Your full repetitive process in steps will go as follows:

click on square of choice on the canvas

drag that square layer to the top under the last renamed

in timeline panel: drop down to next clip, move time-indicator tick to your chosen spot for the next keyframe

create new keyframe

right click new keyframe & paste copied keyframes

repeat until you've done this with every square in the group

Now you can change the opacity of your squares layer group back to 100% and turn on the visibility of Gif 1. Then hit play to see the magic happen.

PART 4: Finished examples

Example 1

the transition starts too soon Cause: initial keyframe was placed at frame 0

the squares fade away too quickly Cause: overlapping keyframes, seen below. (this may be the ideal way to go with more squares, but for only 9, it's too fast)

Example 2

more frame time for first gif

transition wraps up at a good point Cause: in this instance, the first keyframe was placed 9 frames in, and the keyframes are not overlapping. The sequential pair starts where the last pair ended, creating a slower fade of each square.

Part 5: Final Tips and Saving

You can dl my save action here which will convert everything back into frames, change the frame rate to 0.05 and open the export window so you can see the size of the gif immediately.

If it's over 10gb, one way to finesse this is by use of lossy. By definition, lossy “compresses by removing background data” and therefore quality can be lost when pushed too far. But for most gifs, I have not noticed a deterioration in quality at all when saving with lossy until you start getting into 15-20 or higher, then it will start eating away at your gif so keep it minimal.

If you've done this and your gif is losing a noticeable amount of quality and you still haven’t gotten it below 10mb, you will have no choice but to start deleting frames.

When it comes to transitions like this one, sometimes you can't spare a single frame and if this is the case, you will have to return to the timeline state in your history and condense the key frames to fade out quicker so you can shorten the gif. You should always save a history point before converting so you have a bookmark to go back to in case this happens.

That's pretty much it, free to shoot me an ask on here or on @jugheadjones with any questions.

[interlockingpatches]

Brine Shrimp (draft) and Crayfish. Interlocking crochet

crochet wonk about post stitches after the cut

it only seems fair to mention that i've been using post stitches (or "around-the-post" sts) extensively in these crustacean samples.

these aren't indicated in the patterns because they're optional (and a whole added layer of complication). kind of a secret menu item, if you will. i try to to describe their use in the "optional/advanced" section of my documentation, but you have a lot of options:

and so far my approach has been to just sort of… list those options and let you sort it out.

Basically (??) when working into any visible outline (Colour A in patterns), it often looks better if you work "around the post" or main shaft of that stitch (or around several stitches, if multiple sts converge), rather than working into front and back loops like you normally would. As a bonus, it's often easier to work this way.

Post stitches bundle up all the messy bits of the last row's st, conceal the "joint" where the two sts connect, and create a raised outline that can improve the clarity of your design.

Post stitches are what make Brine Shrimp's longest legs look so smooth (each one comprises three sts across three rows), but they can have drawbacks:

Post stitches are also why Crayfish's claws are a bit muddy: they make for smooth outlines, but they also add texture and bulk, and they can do funny things to the alignment of the two filet meshes.

You also have to extend dc and dtr (but not tr) stitches by one loop in the base when working around the post to maintain gauge, and it's all just more goddamn things to think about.

ahem

You might want to use a post stitch if:

You are using a lighter weight of yarn for outlines (Colour A) than for backgrounds (Colour B), and your stitches look sloppy where they meet up on the front of the work.

You are extending an existing outline (F/T or diagonal) and don't want a "joint" between line segments.

You want a curved (rather than a sharp) angle between two line segments.

you are working into an existing horizontal outline, and working into both loops makes that line look all scritchy, i.e:

You made a stitch and it made the last row's stitch look ugly

[laxmiree]

[CN] MLQC’s Lucien - Strategy Game Date - English Translation (2/2)

⚠️ SPOILER ALERT!! ⚠️

This post contains a detailed spoiler for a date that has not been released in EN yet! Feel free to notify me if there are any mistakes in the translation~

My fingers inadvertently brush against his earlobe as I slowly drape my necklace on his face.

Like marking him as my guaranteed prize in advance, I grasp the chain and gently tug it, pulling him half a step closer to me.

The dazzling light settles back into my eyes, as if he has always meant to be mine.

Translation under the cut!

Previous: Part 1 & 2-> [Here]

=[Part 3]=

After I mention wanting to learn chess, Lucien unexpectedly takes me straight to the exhibition hall next to the banquet room.

Seven black and white checkered platforms of varying sizes divide the space vertically, connected by steps and reaching almost to the ceiling.

Towering above me, the black and white chess pieces are nearly life-sized. Like the legions of a mighty emperor arrayed for battle, they cast a majestic gaze down upon me, making me suddenly realize something.

MC: This... could this be a giant, three-dimensional chessboard?

Lucien: Hm, when the organizers created this exhibition hall, they probably wanted people to directly experience the spatial sense of three-dimensional chess.

Lucien picks up a remote control from the entrance and brightens the lights.

MC: So, if we're thinking like chess players, shouldn't we head up to the top level?

Lucien: [chuckles] Sometimes I wonder if this student has secretly seen my courseware.

He smiles and takes my hand, leading me up the steps. We weave between oversized chess pieces, finally reaching the top of the chessboard.

Lucien: Actually, looking from directly above, the rules for moving the pieces are generally similar to international classic chess.

Lucien: You've had some 'hands-on' experience with me before, so you should pick this up pretty quickly.

Lucien: The pieces in three-dimensional international chess can move vertically between adjacent boards. In addition to this, these small boards can rotate under corresponding rules.

He presses the remote, and a small chessboard begins to rotate horizontally until its black squares once again align with those of the adjacent larger board.

MC: Wow...! That's so interesting!

Lucien: [chuckles] Might as well give it a try.

I take the remote and, after a few shifts, gradually start to figure out the pattern.

MC: The smaller boards can only rotate if they're empty or have just one piece on them.

MC: But it seems like it can only move on the same side of the big chessboard and to the adjacent corners?

Lucien: [chuckles] As expected of a clever girl.

MC: Well, it's all thanks to the patient and guiding Teacher Lucien.

Lucien: Now then, rather than boring you with the rules, why don't we learn and gradually reinforce them through hands-on practice?

MC: So, are we going to jump right in and play a chess game?

Lucien: Mm, in an interesting way.

Lucien takes my hand and leads me to the level where the white chess pieces are arrayed.

Lucien: By entering the game personally, perhaps you'll be more immersed in it.

He smiles calmly and walks over to a white Queen piece. He extends his hand and pushes it aside, creating an empty space.

Lucien: Come on, give it a try.

Only at this moment do I belatedly understand the meaning of ‘entering the game personally'.

Gazing at each of the chess pieces solemnly arrayed around me, I take a deep breath and step into the center.

Like a coronation, the light crowns me. And amidst my nervousness, I also feel a thrill of excitement.

MC: Lucien, I'm ready.

Lucien: [chuckles] Okay, but you'll need to be cautious from now on.

Lucien: In chess, the Queen is the most powerful piece, and also the one most easily captured.

A voice that feels strangely familiar traverses the depths of distant memories, falling clearly upon my ears. I freeze for a moment, then a smile spreads on my face.

MC: Of course I know, especially since this is my first time on the 'battlefield’.

MC: However... I will do my best to fight a good battle.

Lucien: [chuckles] I'm honored to be your opponent.

With Lucien stepping onto the position of the black king, the instructional match begins.

To gain a more intuitive understanding, I open up the chessboard simulation that Lucien gave me.

Lucien: In three-dimensional chess, occupying and controlling the center layer is very important.

I suddenly recall the knight's jump in Carl's opening and skillfully push the white knight forward, seizing the initiative to start the game.

A flicker of surprise momentarily crosses Lucien's face, but he quickly smiles and moves to occupy the White Knight's most likely next landing spot.

After a few rounds, we soon converge on the strategic focal point—the center of the chessboard.

Lucien: The Queen piece can move along any horizontal row, vertical column, and diagonal line.

MC: Then I won't hold back.

Seeing my chance to capture Lucien's freshly placed pawn by moving between levels, I don’t hesitate. I walk over and gently push it.

A spotlight immediately illuminates this small victory of mine.

The display stand is already waiting nearby, and I proudly push the captured pawn onto it.

As Lucien explains the rules, the beams of light repeatedly light up, and I capture several more black pieces in succession.

MC: This feeling is just too addictive!

Lucien: Looks like this classmate is gradually discovering the joy of chess.

A subtle smile plays on Lucien’s lips, his expression brimming with lively interest as he appears engrossed in this entertaining and educational game.

At this moment, I notice Lucien standing diagonally across from me, just a step away.

According to the rules, I can checkmate this enemy king in just one step.

Suppressing my wildly beating heart, I casually start to speak as if it’s unintentional.

MC: What do chess players do at the moment of victory?

Lucien: They usually call out 'Checkmate' to tell the opponent, 'You've been ‘eaten’ by me'.*

MC: Ohhh~ Checkmate!~

Looking at him with his smiling eyes, seemingly unaware of his situation, I feel a bit giddy and rise slightly on my tiptoes.

Suddenly, tiny flecks of light glimmer across Lucien's face. Following his slightly narrowed gaze, I realize it's the light reflecting off my necklace.

The flecks of light dance just perfectly on his face, inexplicably arousing a desire within me.

I want to triumph over this genius, to have him celebrate for me, to have him witness my coronation.

Driven by this thought, I gently set the chessboard aside and take off my necklace.

My fingers inadvertently brush against his earlobe as I slowly drape the necklace on his face.

Like marking him as my guaranteed prize in advance, I grasp the chain and gently tug it, pulling him half a step closer to me.**

The dazzling light settles back into my eyes, as if he has always meant to be mine.

MC: Checkmate.

I look into his eyes and speak softly.

MC: Lucien, it seems like you're about to be ‘eaten’ by me now.

Lucien: Is that so?

Lucien: But... it seems my turn to make a move now

MC: …?

He raises an eyebrow, pushes the black Bishop aside, and moves along the line towards the King chess piece behind me.

Because I was focused on capturing pieces earlier, I didn't set up any defenses around my king. Now, I can only watch as Lucien advances towards it unimpeded-

As if in response to his words, the white king collapses in defeat.

Everything is happening so suddenly. A blinding beam of light abruptly shines just a few steps away, making me squint.

The chessboard, which just moments ago rested on the ground, now lies askew without me noticing, its tilted surface like a declaration of my defeat.

A golden chess piece rolls dejectedly towards the light until a large hand with defined knuckles picks it up.

Within the spotlight, Lucien holds the chess piece between his fingers and casually glances up.

Lucien: [the way his CN VA said this in english🤧] Game Over.

Lucien: Did this Miss Player enjoy the game to her heart's content?

The translucent colored glass refracts the cold light into his eyes, making him look like a proud and indifferent figure of high status.

It's as if, should he desire a win, the golden fruit of victory will naturally fall into his hand; and should I relish the challenge, he would be quite happy to help me experience that same joy.

Lucien has always been a good teacher.

Although the frustration of failure lingers in my heart, there is still a hidden sense of thrill that draws me toward him.

MC: Winning would make it even more enjoyable for me.

MC: However, losing might not be a bad thing either.

MC: That way, I can see how far I still have to go before I can beat you.

Lucien: [chuckles] That's very good.

Lucien: ‘Desire to win’ is the first step towards victory.

He gently caresses the chess piece in his hand, stretches his arms out even more languidly, and makes no attempt to hide his overflowing eagerness and anticipation.

Lucien: MC, do you still want to play?

MC: Of course.

He smiles ambiguously, his narrow eyes taking me in completely.

Lucien: Then, go ahead and beat me quickly.***

✂———————–

[T/N]

p.s. Did you catch all the references to S1 chapter 23 👀 Very interesting to see him saying essentially the same thing as Winter World Lucien/Ares, but more in casual tone and wording🤧 Also, as for the plot,… For now, I can only say that he's truly a black-bellied ‘beauty bait’ 😂 I will talk more about the plot at the end of the date~

*: In Chinese, 'capture' in chess is expressed as 吃掉 (chī diào), which literally means 'to eat up' or 'devour.' This creates an interesting double meaning in the MC's line, if you know what I mean🥴

**: The phrase used here is 囊中之物 (náng zhōng zhī wù), which literally translates to "something in the bag". It implies that something is already securely in one's possession, entirely under one's control, or easily obtainable—like something that's already been caught and placed in a bag or like a prize of a secured victory. By using this phrase, besides being overconfident she also expresses a desire to assert her “sovereignty” on him~

Also as for the line right after that (仿佛他本就是我的), a more literal translation would be that “as if he inherently/naturally/fundamentally belongs to me.”. like, him belonging to her just feel natural and inherent 🤧. That sounds awkward in EN so I use a more natural-sounding phrase sksksksks

***: Alternative translation: “Then, go ahead and win me quickly.” . 赢我 (literally, “win me”)can either be interpreted as him urging her to beat him in the game or literally ‘win’ him, with him still wearing her necklace a.k.a her stake on him, like a prize yet to be claimed… both can be true imo-

✂———————–

=[Part 4]=

Throughout our trip, Lucien's chess lessons continue to progress step by step.

Soon, it's the last day, and we're heading back to the guesthouse after completing our itinerary.

I rest boredly on Lucien's lap, thinking about how to properly wrap up the vacation.

Suddenly, an idea pops into my mind.

MC: Lucien.

Lucien: MC.

Our voices ring out at the same time, and then we both laugh together.

Lucien: [chuckles] You go first.

MC: I've been learning chess for a week. Shouldn't the teacher check the results?

Seeing me glance meaningfully at the chessboard on the desk, he catches my meaning with a knowing smile.

Lucien: It seems a chess match is inevitable then.

MC: Hee hee~ But since Professor Lucien often has a habit of going easy on me, I must give you a serious reminder…

MC: If you don't give it your all, then I won't play with you anymore.

Seeing my eager expression, Lucien smiles and winks.

Lucien: In that case, I'll probably give it my all even more than I would for the championship.

✂———————–

MC: Woo hoo, you're too amazing!

Lucien innocently arranges the chessboard, as if he wasn't the one who checkmated me three times in five minutes.

Lucien: Do you want to play another round?

MC: No, no, no more. If we keep playing, I might develop some psychological scars…

Lucien: [chuckles] In that case, why don't we go have some fun?

MC: Hm?

As Lucien draws open the floor-to-ceiling curtains, a bright orange-pink view suddenly floods my retinas.

Flamingo floaties, heart-shaped balloons, and red lip-shaped water balloons are arranged around the pool, creating a lively party atmosphere.

Lucien: We agreed to have a pool party on the first day we arrived here.

Lucien: It's just that a certain classmate was so engrossed in learning chess that she seems to have completely forgotten about this.

Hearing the pretend grievance in his tone, I laugh and pinch his nose.

MC: Could it be that a certain professor was playing such a fast game of chess just to get me to go have fun sooner?

Lucien doesn't say anything, but a smile plays on his lips as if in confirmation.

Lucien: You always keep your head down when we play chess. It seems like I haven't seen your eyes in a long time.*

✂———————–

A party should naturally have the vibe of a party.

By the time I arrive in the garden, having changed into my pink dress, Lucien is already waiting for me.

The beige suit hugs his elegant form, accentuating his sharp lines, while the light green tie adds a touch of freshness.

MC: This trip is totally worth it!~ I unexpectedly got to see so many different styles of Professor Lucien.

Lucien: Initially, I didn't quite understand why you didn't want to wear a swimsuit to the party, but now—

Lucien: Seeing such a lovely picture, I think I understand.

The summer breeze gently tousles his bangs, and I suddenly realize that his hair has grown longer without me noticing.**

I can’t help but reach up to fiddle with his hair a couple of times, but it doesn't feel like enough. So I take off my hair clip and stand on tiptoe toward him.

My fingertips twirl a strand of his hair. He seems to realize what I'm doing and gently leans down. His warm breath falls steadily on the corner of my lips, like a phantom of a kiss.

His naturally exquisite brows and eyes are now fully unveiled, making me smile with satisfaction.

MC: It's better this way~ I can see your eyes all the time now.

Those dark eyes freezes for a fleeting second, then the world held within his gaze curves into the faintest of smiles. For a moment, I'm completely spellbound by the sight.

"Pop!" The balloon bursts with a bang, and we both blink in surprise, then burst into laughter together.

Sunlight casts dappled light and shadow on the water's surface, and a giant flamingo float drifts towards us, like an invitation of some sort. So, I reach out my hand to Lucien.

MC: Are you ready?

Lucien: Although I don't know what MC is referring to, I think I'd be more than happy to entrust myself to you.

He places his hand on my palm, and I immediately hold it tightly.

MC: [laughs] Then I won't hold back-

I raise our intertwined hands high above our heads and take a big step forward, jumping towards the flamingo with all my might.

As we float in midair, the warm sunlight, woven with dappled shadows cast by the trees, rushes toward me, and a joyful exclamation escapes my lips.

His familiar gentle voice sounds by my ear as his strong arm pulls me close and protects me firmly in his embrace.

Bam-!

We feel a soft, bouncy sensation on our backs as we sink before being bounced back up.

Colorful balloons float in mid-air, while polka-dotted water balloons bobbing along with the waves, like a pop art canvas unfolding before one's eyes.

The splashing water droplets glint like the world’s own flash, capturing all the joy in that moment.

The flamingo drifts leisurely until the waves finally calm down, and I turn to look at the person beside me.

MC: Once you board my “pirate ship”, there's no easy escape!

Lucien: [chuckles] If you're using yourself as bait to lure me onto your pirate ship…

Lucien: Then it seems this pirate miss has ensnared herself in her own trap. After all, we're in the same boat now... [whispers] you can't escape either.

With a soft laugh, he deliberately tightens his arms around me.

MC: Hahaha! Don't underestimate me!

I feign a struggle to break free but discover something tangled around my arm—

Several bright red lipstick decorations each trailing a long red thread, winding messily and mischievously around our bodies.

I'm just about to take it off, but then an idea strikes me, and with a smile, I tilt my chin up.

MC: Shall we play a little game?

Under his noncommittal gaze, I loop a red thread around his fingertips, pressing one red lip against his chest. The other, I keep in my hand.

MC: Let's see who can snatch away the other's 'red lips' first. I may not be able to beat you at chess, but I'm still quite confident in this kind of little game—

Before I even finish speaking, I feel a sudden tug on my fingertip.

I turn my head in surprise and find that Lucien has already firmly grasped the “red lips” in my hand.

MC: ….

Isn't this too fast?!

I laugh in spite of myself as I turn my head back, meeting that gaze filled with a hint of smugness and mischief.

MC: [pouts] So you really have such a high desire to win.

Lucien: Of course.

He gives a subtle, almost imperceptible smile, and purposefully tightens his grip on the red lips, but doesn't take it away.

Lucien: But compared to winning, I find myself savoring this moment even more.

Lucien: A well-matched opponent... makes the competition itself more enjoyable.***

Gazing deeply into his calm, smiling eyes, I can't help but hook my finger around his tie, pulling myself closer to drown in their depths.

MC: But... when I really think about it…

MC: Lucien, have I ever won against you?

Lucien: [chuckles] What do you think?

His dark, ink-like eyes glimmer with interest, yet remain extraordinarily serious as they're waiting for my answer.

MC: I don't know.

MC: Sometimes I feel like I've never won, because it seems that even when I use all my strength, I'm only just engaging in a match with you, still a distance away from victory.

MC:  Sometimes I feel like I've won, but those instances don't seem to count as ‘winning or losing’.

The shimmering light of the waves drowns in the depths of his tender gaze, making me fall into those eyes just by looking at them.

Lucien: [sincerely] You've won against me many times.

Lucien: Sometimes, even when I fight back with everything I have, I still can't overcome you.

He smiles, a little helplessly, yet with a hint of willing surrender in his expression.

MC: Am I really that powerful?

Lucien: [chuckles] Mm. Besides, whenever I'm playing with MC, the rules, the strategies, winning or losing… none of it holds any significance anymore.

Lucien: I think, maybe you're just naturally talented at turning everything into the world's most fun game, making people want to keep playing…

Before I know it, he has silently wound a red thread around us, like the unbreakable red thread of fate. Greedily, I wind it tighter, until my fingertips touch his.****

MC: So, can I take that to mean that Professor Lucien enjoys playing with me the most?

Lucien: [chuckles] If I said yes…

Lucien: [whispers hoarsely] Would you be willing to play with me forever, MC?

✂———————–

[T/N]

*: “You always keep your head down when we play chess. It seems like I haven't seen your eyes in a long time.”- By seeing her eyes, he confirms that she’s also ‘looking’ at him, paying attention to him. He's basically saying that she's so absorbed in chess that she seems to haven't looked at him for so long🥺 Although he's saying this in a lighthearted way, it also hints at his longing for her attention 🤧

**: This highlight how MC hasn't paid much attention that now his hair has grown longer without her noticing u.u

***: 旗鼓相当 (qí gǔ xiāng dāng) - "Evenly matched" or "well-matched." This idiom literally translates to battle flags and drums being of equal strength, symbolizing that both sides in a competition are equally capable or have the same chance of winning. It also implies mutual respect for the opponent, recognizing them as a worthy rival.

****: The red string/thread of fate! In the East, it conveys a sense of destined love. Lucien being the one who silently wounds it around them, he takes the initiative to establish the bond between them, but it is loosely at first, as if inviting her to be the one who tightens it. He’s not just forcing a bond; he’s creating an opportunity for her to choose how close they want to be. And longingly and greedily, she tightens the bond because she wants them to be as close as possible 🥺 Love is always a two-way street that requires active participation from two sides 🤧. Along with his “childish” proposal, you could also interpret it as a “trap” that he weaves for the two of them, but it’s one that neither of them wants to escape from 😂

✂———————–

[Moments- Emotional Expression]

Lucien's post: Sometimes, showing childishness can be seen as a way of expressing emotions.

MC: Do you also feel this way?

Lucien: Of course. In front of you, I often can't help but want to act a little spoiled.

[Reply 2]

Lucien's post: Sometimes, showing a ‘childish’ side can be seen as a way of expressing emotions.

MC: Does Professor Lucien like this way of expressing emotions?

Lucien: Mm, if lovers can freely show their childishness, it might mean their relationship has entered a new stage.

[Reply 3]

Lucien's post: Sometimes, showing a ‘childish’ side can be seen as a way of expressing emotions.

MC: I agree! Sometimes I want to act like a little kid in front of you~

Lucien: You have always been my little friend.

[T/N]

While "childishness" has a negative connotation in English, it carries a more neutral and sometimes even endearing connotation in Chinese. In this context, it conveys a sense of playfulness and innocence rather than pure immaturity👀

✂———————–

[Lux's Afterwords]

Not gonna lie, when I first read it, I felt a bit disappointed because this date seems to emphasize Lucien's victories despite being promoted as an "evenly matched game." 😂 However, after reading it a second time, I think I understand what the writers are trying to convey with this date (Also thank God at least they show this ‘evenly matched’ aspect in his Halloween date LOL).

I think this date is really trying to showcase Lucien's mischievous and “childish” side, reminiscent of his childhood before everything changed after the car accident 🤧 As we know from the R&S (that I shared before the beginning of the date- go read it if you haven't ahah), he was a gentle and quiet kid, yet there’s also that little “bad” streak in him. As a child, he loved teasing Fan Zihang (Zack in EN localization), and now he’s shifted that teasing to his girlfriend🤣 although there's still an obvious double standard like him still willing to go easy on her from time to time~

Just like what his reply in the moments said, a partner showing ‘childishness’ might mean that the relationship is entering a new stage. The fact that he can show this side of himself means he feels comfortable enough with MC to let his guard down. It’s like he’s letting her see a glimpse of the genuine him, the one who can be mischievous and has a high desire to win, just like he was as a kid. Perhaps…this is the kind of person he would have become if his parents were still alive. From being indifferent and distant, the snow is melting and he's entering a new spring in his life🤧

Then, reflecting on how the date mostly highlights his victories, I think Lucien’s not letting her win easily isn’t just about his mischief or his strong desire to win. He also hopes to challenge her with, make her understand, and eventually surpass his true capabilities 🥺. What MC says (“That way, I can see how far I still have to go before I can beat you.”) emphasizes this point. His display of true strength is meant to motivate her, not discourage her. He’s willing to give her a taste of victory, making the game more enjoyable regardless of winning or losing, and is even willing to teach her how to beat him. After all... an evenly matched opponent makes competition all the more enjoyable.

Furthermore, Lucien sincerely acknowledges that there are times when he can't win against her even when he fights with all of his might. Although it feels hollow if we only based it on the date alone, there are many, many instances of him ‘losing’ to her in previous dates and main stories- one instance that I can think of is this line from The Sea No Longer Distant MQ:

He feels as if she has left him far behind, as if she knows more things that he cannot comprehend.

He’s helpless to such outcomes, yet willing to surrender (coming from someone with such a strong desire to win... if this isn’t love, I don’t know what is). The result doesn’t matter as much as just enjoying the moment together🥺 Lastly, let's talk about his last line.

MC愿意永远和我一起玩下去吗? (Would you be willing to play with me forever, MC?)

With this date revolving around games and his ‘childishness’, the closing line is perfect ｡⁠:ﾟ⁠(⁠;⁠´⁠∩⁠`⁠;⁠)ﾟ⁠:⁠｡ 永远 (forever) is a heavy word, and it turns this seemingly playful line into something like an earnest yet almost childlike proposal 🥺. Through this, he’s expressing a wish for her lifelong companionship and commitment. There’s also an underlying vulnerability here—by asking for "forever”, Lucien hints at a deeper hope that she’ll stay by his side, to keep ‘playing’ with him until the end of life and more🤧

[dogtoling]

Biology of Inkfish - Senses

Most Neocephalopods have a well-developed sense of vision, which is also their primary sense for navigating their environment. The pupil shapes and even the type of eyes may vary from species to species, with some cephalings having relatively poor eyesight, and others being adapted to spot and track moving prey hundreds of meters away. In neonautiloids and cirrates, which tend to hunt slow-moving prey or scavenge on carrion, the eyes are generally less complicated and can only form high-resolution images at a close distance. In inkfish, pupils come in primarily three shapes; the star-shaped pupil of squid, the horizontal pupil of octopuses and the W-shaped pupil of cuttlefish, with some variety and exceptions. Pupils of inkfish can dilate and retract freely, offering different use cases. inkfish also have dark patterns around their eyes to absorb the sun’s glare for hunting during periods of light.

[Three types of inkfish eyes (squid, octopus, cuttlefish) and the eye of a nautilus showing variety in pupil and "mask" shapes. The nautilus eye is quite different to that of other neocephalopods.]

The color vision of some neocephalopods is quite advanced, especially in inkfish which can differentiate between even minute hue shifts. This color vision seems to have evolved as a response to territory marking and communication via color, the efficiency of bright deimatic displays, and due to the addition of fruit into their diets. On the contrary, the color vision of non-inkfish is typically less advanced, especially in neonautiloids and cirrates, which do not have color-based visual communication or incorporate fruit into their diets and are able to detect less than half of the tones that inkfish do.

The neocephalopod sense of smell is present, but quite weak in the greater scope of the animal kingdom. The facial siphon in some cephalings is located in the middle of their face; this is used mainly for breathing, but also provides a sense of smell. Cephalings also have chemoreceptors in their suckers, which allows them to pick up chemical traces from the air as well as things they come in contact with. Suckers, including the graspers at the ends of inkfish limbs, offer a sense of taste when coming into contact with things - this enables some cephalings to taste their food or locate potential hidden prey just by touching it, for example. Taste receptors located on the radula or in the buccal cavity provide a sense of taste, as well.

Neocephalopods have a developed sense of magnetoreception. This sense is strongest in inkfish, which commonly travel long distances and traverse via air. Inkfish use magnetoreception primarily to navigate their territory as well as align their Super Jumps correctly. Inkfish are capable of sensing the Earth’s magnetic field and determine their alignments based on this; they are also able to sense weaker local magnetic fields, such as those emitted from Spawn Points and Squid Beakons.

Neocephalopods have a quite well-developed sense of hearing despite it not being their primary way of either finding prey or protecting themselves against predators. Inkfish have a tympanum on each side of the head, located just behind the eye and by the base of the fin. The tympanum transmits sound to the inner ear of the inkfish, with the closed structure protecting the ears from ink or other liquids. Inkless cephalings often have exposed ear holes rather than a closed tympanum.

[A comparison of the inkfish tympanum in a squid inkling (left) as opposed to an exposed ear hole in an inkless cirrate (right). In cephalings, the position of the tentacles or fins usually helps to direct sound into the ears.]

[aslamat]

Stonehenge Mysteries: Men, Mystery, and a Marvel of a Monument

Stonehenge is a megalith organized on the Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England, and like all ancient monuments, it has been fascinating for centuries. The construction of the pillars that form the ceiling is thought to be so tall and symbolic that it creates curiosity. Though the available knowledge regarding Stonehenge remains unbiased, several issues are still mired in controversy. This typical blog post focuses on Stonehenge mainly in terms of the purpose of its construction, the methods used in construction, and the celestial purpose that was assigned to the stone circle.

The Purpose of Stonehenge

Arguably, one of the most frequently asked questions about Stonehenge is about the monument’s function. There are a number of theories that, when examined, are proffered with much rationale as to why they should be accepted.

A Ceremonial Site

Due to its construction complexity and its specific layout, Stonehenge was expected to be used ceremonially. This indicates that it was used in religious observances since it has an alignment with the sun solstices of the summers and winters. The main structure of the Heel Stone was placed to align itself with the sun rise on the summer solstice, which suggests solar cult or agricultural rituals.

A Burial Ground

A study carried out on human bones pulled from various digs in and around Stonehenge suggests that it served as the burial place of individuals. Cremated remains were observed at the site, indicating that it was one of the important burial grounds for the elites or people of higher rank in that period and was in use as early as 3000 BC. But this theory fits with the belief that Stonehenge was built as a shrine for ancestor spirits.

A Healing Center

There are theories that certain elements of the monument, as well as the placement of Stonehenge as a whole, were intended to allow for this. A couple of skeletons bearing marks of diseases and wounds that may have been fatal imply that those in ailing states could trek to the shrine with the hope of being healed. The bluestones used in the construction of the circle were believed to have healing virtues, and these originated in Wales.

An Astronomical Observatory

One of the dominant theories is that the grand monument was an ancient observatory, and the stones were aligned with specific stars. This is consistent with the idea since the precise laying down of stones correlates with the occurrence of solstices and equinoxes. It could have probably been utilized in the prediction of astronomy, which helped in agriculture and the scheduling of religious ceremonies.

The Construction of Stonehenge

Historians and archaeologists have marveled at the creation of Stonehenge, which is a circle of stones. No technology was available, and yet it was quite intriguing how the prehistoric people moved and set up those large stones.

Transporting the stones

Stonehenge consists of two types of stones: sarsen stones and bluestones of the neolithic period from western Asia and Europe, respectively. The giant sarsen stones, which each weigh up to 25 tons, may have come from the Marlborough Downs, located 32 kilometers away. These were the smaller bluestones that could weigh up to 4 tons and were transported from Preseli Hills in Wales, more than 240 km away.

Earlier, it was assumed that the construction was transported using sledges and rollers, and later through water bodies. Such an immense operation would have necessitated proper planning in terms of human labor and advanced engineering.

Erecting the Stones

Even when the stones were on site, another problem arose as to how best to put them up or raise them. Currently, ancient writers have posited that prehistoric builders employed a system of earth ramps and wooden beams to lift the construction pieces and maneuver them to their appropriate positions. The lintels, or horizontal stones, were fitted and locked in position through the use of mortise and tenon joints, a sign of the high technicality that had been attained.

Precision and planning

Because there are only megaliths arranged in a circular fashion within the walls of Stonehenge, constructing the monument was a highly precise undertaking that needed careful planning as well as knowledge of geometry and astronomy. They are arranged neatly in a cyclic fashion, and several of them are oriented in specific positions depending on the rightful rites associated with stars. The sophistication of the measurements and the accuracy of the alignments show the builders must have been skilled people with knowledge.

Celestial Alignments

Another interesting historical fact about Stonehenge is that the construction of the circle was to have some kind of correlation with some astronomical phenomena. The feature has had people believing that it was used for astronomical purposes since it was created.

Solstices and Equinoxes

Arising from the above, it can be well argued that Stonehenge was well-aligned to create a solar calendar with shadow markers that pointed directly to the summer and winter solstices. As such, during the summer solstice, the sun reverses its position over the Heel Stone, rises directly at the monument, and provides a shadow through the heart of the stones. This formation can be observed during the shortest day of the year, the winter solstice, when the sun sets in the direction of the Altar Stone. Such alignments indicate that Stonehenge wanted to signify the change of seasons, something that was indeed important in civilizations that dealt with farming.

Lunar Alignments

However, it is not only solar alignments that have been associated with Stonehenge; lunar relationships are evident as well. Some stones are oriented north-south, east-west, and large stones lie parallel to the moon; the builders may have monitored the lunar cycle. It could have been used to estimate eclipses of the moon or some other event, and this has been achieved when its current facet aligns with a past instance.

When can Stonehenge be crowned as having the enduring mystique of Stonehenge?

Nonetheless, the mystery enveloping Stonehenge remains intact since there are countless theories developed by researchers, but the monument still has many secrets. The intent behind its creation, the architectural techniques used in building it, and the connection with astronomy continue to be the objects of discussion and wonder. These monuments oppose the question of historical relevance by holding immense aesthetic and cognitive appeal for multi-generational scrutiny.

Stonehenge is not just a set of stones set together; it is a dynamically creative structure erected by our forefathers. This alignment with the stars, together with the effort that went into the construction of the monument, shows how the value system of paleolithic people pegged heavily on the physical environment.

It does make you think that as people carry on digging around Stonehenge and researching it, will more features and facts surrounding the monument be revealed? Nevertheless, the true purpose of Stonehenge can be explained only in riddles, and a shadow of it is still being whispered to inspire and amaze people around the world, all the while making them think about our ancestors’ genius in the field of architecture.

Thus, having analyzed the mysteries of Stonehenge, we opine that it is beneficial to get closer to understanding the achievements of the ancestors. If, indeed, Stonehenge functioned as a meeting place for the elite to conduct rituals, an emplacement for burying the dead, a sanctuary to solicit healing from gods, or a site to conduct an astronomical calendar, it remains today as a testament to mankind’s wisdom and efforts to learn about the world.

[guerrillera-bolivarianista]

In the recent (Jan 7-9 2024) Eqtedar 1403 IRGC aerospace air defense exercise (part of great prophet 19) a new interesting weapon was shown off dubbed the '358' (likely will get a better name soon) The 358 is a loitering munition drone designed to intercept enemy aircraft and act like a traditional SAM, already interesting as this role is a new development there's an extra twist to this story

(the following is purely my theorizing don't quote me here) It's possible we've already seen the 358 in practice over the previous year. Hisballah in Lebanon and Ansarallah in Yemen have over the past year shot down a number of high budget advanced western hunter-killer drones, both forces have been unusually cagey around the footage of the incidents going to great lengths to sensor even the flying form of the weapon taking them down, but from what we can tell it seems to be engaging the drones at a horizontal. to me this sounds like exactly how the 358 would operate, launched into the air to circle while drones are over head, and strike it during a low sweep. this would be relatively logical as of course the IRGC is known for it's equipment cooperation with aligned forces globally, and the aerospace branch specifically has assisted with drone developements for both hisballah and ansarallah. of course those incidents also fit the exact characteristics of use given for the 358, meant to strike agile fast subsonic attack aircraft. If those were tests of the 358 I'd say it certainly has proven itself well.

[reducersupply]

MS Eccentric Reducer Manufacturer in Delhi, India: Udhhyog

In industrial piping systems, proper flow control is essential for efficient operations. An MS eccentric reducer plays a critical role in this, ensuring smooth transitions between different pipe sizes while preventing fluid buildup. If you're looking for a reliable MS eccentric reducer manufacturer in Delhi, India, Udhhyog is the trusted name you can count on. We specialize in manufacturing high-quality MS eccentric reducers at competitive prices, making us the go-to supplier for businesses across various industries.

What is an MS Eccentric Reducer?

An MS eccentric reducer is a pipe fitting used to connect pipes of different diameters while maintaining an offset alignment. Unlike concentric reducers, where the centerlines of both pipes are aligned, an eccentric reducer has one side flat, which helps avoid fluid accumulation at the lower part of the pipe. This feature is especially useful in applications where liquid buildup could create blockages or inefficiencies.

Key Features and Benefits of MS Eccentric Reducers

Optimized Fluid Flow: By maintaining an offset alignment, MS eccentric reducers ensure smooth transitions between pipes while preventing fluid or gas pooling at the bottom of the pipeline.

Cost-Efficient Solution: Made from mild steel, these reducers offer a budget-friendly solution for industries that need reliable and durable pipe fittings.

Durability: MS eccentric reducers are highly durable, capable of withstanding high pressure, extreme temperatures, and corrosion when coated properly.

Ideal for Horizontal Piping Systems: The eccentric design is particularly beneficial in horizontal piping systems, as it prevents liquid from settling at the pipe's lowest point.

Versatile Applications: MS eccentric reducers are widely used across several industries, including oil and gas, water treatment, chemical processing, and HVAC systems.

Applications of MS Eccentric Reducers

Oil and Gas Pipelines: In industries where fluid buildup can cause issues, MS eccentric reducers are essential for maintaining efficient fluid flow.

Water Treatment Systems: These reducers ensure that water flows smoothly without pooling in pipelines, reducing the chances of blockages.

Chemical Processing: In chemical industries, MS eccentric reducers are crucial for preventing unwanted fluid accumulation in pipelines.

HVAC Systems: MS eccentric reducers play a vital role in balancing airflow in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems by ensuring a steady flow in ducts of different sizes.

Why Choose Udhhyog as Your MS Eccentric Reducer Manufacturer?

At Udhhyog, we take pride in being one of the leading MS eccentric reducer manufacturers in Delhi, India. Here’s why businesses trust us for their industrial steel product needs:

Top-Notch Manufacturing Process: We use advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure that all our products, including MS eccentric reducers, meet industry standards for durability and performance.

Competitive Pricing: As a leading manufacturer, we provide high-quality products at the lowest prices in the market, helping businesses reduce their procurement costs.

Customized Solutions: At Udhhyog, we offer customized solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of our clients, ensuring the perfect fit for your piping system.

Extensive Product Range: Apart from MS eccentric reducers, we offer a wide range of other pipe fittings, flanges, and valves, making Udhhyog a one-stop shop for all your industrial steel needs.

Timely Delivery Across India: Based in Delhi, we cater to businesses all over India, ensuring quick and reliable delivery of products to industrial hubs and MSMEs alike.

Buy MS Eccentric Reducers from Udhhyog

Whether you're in need of MS eccentric reducers for oil and gas, water treatment, or HVAC applications, Udhhyog offers the best quality at the lowest prices. Our dedication to quality manufacturing, combined with our customer-first approach, ensures that you get the best value for your investment. Contact Udhhyog today for more information on our MS eccentric reducers and other pipe fittings.

[kemetic-dreams]

Are dips more effective than push-ups?

The debate between dips and push-ups often centers around their effectiveness in building upper body strength and muscle mass. Both exercises are valuable and offer unique benefits, but determining which is more effective depends on individual fitness goals and how each exercise is integrated into a workout routine. Here’s an in-depth comparison:

Understanding the Mechanics and Benefits of Dips

Dips are a compound exercise primarily targeting the triceps, chest, and shoulders. They can be performed using parallel bars, a dip station, or even the edge of a bench for bench dips. The vertical pushing motion of dips allows for a greater range of motion compared to horizontal pressing movements like push-ups, enabling deeper muscle activation. This increased range of motion can lead to more significant muscle growth, particularly in the chest and triceps.

Understanding the Mechanics and Benefits of Push-Ups

Push-Ups are a foundational bodyweight exercise that targets the chest, triceps, shoulders, and core. The horizontal pressing movement of push-ups requires stabilization from the entire body, making it a more comprehensive exercise for overall muscle endurance and core strength. Push-ups are highly versatile, with numerous variations that can target different muscle groups and increase difficulty.

Comparing Muscle Activation

Dips for Muscle Activation

Triceps: Dips are one of the most effective exercises for triceps development. The vertical pushing motion places a significant load on the triceps, particularly when the elbows are kept close to the body.

Chest: Leaning forward during dips can increase chest activation, making them an effective exercise for pectoral development.

Shoulders: The shoulders are engaged to stabilize the movement, particularly the anterior deltoids.

Push-Ups for Muscle Activation

Chest: Push-ups are excellent for targeting the pectoral muscles. Variations like wide-grip push-ups can emphasize chest engagement.

Triceps: Close-grip push-ups place more emphasis on the triceps, similar to the effect of dips.

Core: Push-ups require significant core stabilization to maintain proper body alignment, providing an additional workout for the abs and lower back.

Benefits of Dips for Strength and Muscle Building

Increased Range of Motion: The greater range of motion in dips can lead to enhanced muscle activation and growth, particularly in the chest and triceps.

Higher Load Potential: Dips allow for the addition of external weight (e.g., using a weight belt), making it possible to progressively overload the muscles more effectively than with bodyweight push-ups.

Muscle Hypertrophy: The ability to add weight and the deeper range of motion make dips particularly effective for muscle hypertrophy in the upper body.

Benefits of Push-Ups for Endurance and Stabilization

Core Engagement: Push-ups engage the core muscles to maintain stability and proper form, providing a more comprehensive workout that includes the abs and lower back.

Accessibility: Push-ups can be performed anywhere without any equipment, making them highly accessible and convenient for all fitness levels.

Joint Health: Push-ups place less stress on the shoulder joints compared to dips, which can be beneficial for those with shoulder issues or recovering from injuries.

Advanced Variations and Progressive Overload

Advanced Dip Variations

Weighted Dips: Adding a weight belt or wearing a weighted vest increases resistance, promoting greater muscle growth and strength.

Bench Dips: Using a bench for dips can be an excellent modification for beginners or those focusing on triceps isolation.

Advanced Push-Up Variations

Plyometric Push-Ups: Explosive push-ups that involve leaving the ground can enhance power and fast-twitch muscle fiber engagement.

Decline Push-Ups: Elevating the feet increases the intensity and shifts more focus to the upper chest and shoulders.

One-Arm Push-Ups: These push-ups challenge balance and significantly increase the load on each arm, promoting unilateral strength and muscle symmetry.

Combining Dips and Push-Ups for Optimal Results

For the best results, incorporating both dips and push-ups into your workout routine can provide a well-rounded upper body workout. Here are some strategies to combine these exercises effectively:

Supersetting: Perform dips followed immediately by push-ups to maximize muscle fatigue and growth.

Circuit Training: Include dips and push-ups in a circuit to improve cardiovascular endurance and overall muscle conditioning.

Balanced Routine: Alternate between dips and push-ups throughout the week to ensure balanced muscle development and prevent overuse injuries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Improper Form: Using incorrect form in either exercise can lead to injuries and reduce their effectiveness. Focus on maintaining proper alignment and controlled movements.

Overtraining: Excessive frequency without adequate rest can lead to overtraining and muscle fatigue. Ensure balanced training and recovery.

Lack of Variation: Sticking to only one type of push-up or dip variation can lead to plateaus. Mix up your routine to continually challenge your muscles and promote growth.

Conclusion

Both dips and push-ups are highly effective exercises for building upper body strength and muscle. Dips offer a greater range of motion and higher load potential, making them excellent for building triceps and chest strength. Push-ups provide comprehensive muscle engagement and core stabilization, making them a versatile and accessible exercise. The best approach is to incorporate both exercises into your routine, leveraging their unique benefits to achieve a well-rounded upper body workout. By focusing on proper form, progressive overload, and balanced training, you can maximize the effectiveness of both dips and push-ups, leading to improved strength, muscle growth, and overall fitness.

[the2flexibleplatform]

CSS One-Liners to Improve (Almost) Every Project

CSS One-Liners to Improve (Almost) Every Project

#css#webdev#listicle

Most of these one-liners will be one declaration inside the CSS rule. In some cases, the selector will be more than just a simple element; in others, I will add extra declarations as recommendations for a better experience, thus making them more than a one-liner —my apologies in advance for those cases.

Some of these one-liners are more of a personal choice and won't apply to all websites (not everyone uses tables or forms). I will briefly describe each of them, what they do (with sample images), and why I like using them. Notice that the sample images may build on top of previous examples.

Here's a summary of what the one-liners do:

Limit the content width within the viewport

Increase the body text size

Increase the line between rows of text

Limit the width of images

Limit the width of text within the content

Wrap headings in a more balanced way

Form control colors to match page styles

Easy-to-follow table rows

Spacing in table cells and headings

Reduce animations and movement

Limit the content width in the viewport

body { max-width: clamp(320px, 90%, 1000px); /* additional recommendation */ margin: auto; }

  Adding this one-liner will reduce the content size to occupy 90% of the viewport, limiting its width between 320 and 1000 pixels (feel free to update the minimum and maximum values).

This change will automatically make your content look much nicer. It will no longer be a vast text block but something that looks more structured and organized. And if you also add margin: auto; to the body, the content will be centered on the page. Two lines of code make the content look so much better.

Aligned and contained text looks better than a giant wall of text

Increase the text size

body { font-size: 1.25rem; }

  Let's face reality: browsers' default 16px font size is small. Although that may be a personal opinion based on me getting old 😅

One quick solution is to increase the font size in the body. Thanks to the cascade and em units browsers use, all the text on a web page will automatically increase.

Larger text size makes things easier to read.

Increase the space among lines

body { line-height: 1.5; }

  Another preference for improving readability and breaking the dreaded wall of text is increasing the space between lines in paragraphs and content. We can easily do it with the line-height property.

Spaces between lines break the wall of text and the rivers of white.

This choice (with the previous two) will considerably increase our page's vertical size, but I assure you the text will be more readable and friendlier for all users.

Limit the size of images

img { max-width: 100%; }

  Images should be approximately the size of the space they will occupy, but sometimes, we end up with really long pictures that cause the content to shift and create horizontal scrolling.

One way to avoid this is by setting a maximum width of 100%. While this is not a fool-proof solution (margins and paddings may impact the width), it will work in most cases. 

Prevent horizontal scrolling and make images flow better with the text

Limit the width of text within the content

p { max-width: 65ch; }

  Another tactic to avoid the dreaded wall of text and rivers of space is to apply this style even in conjunction with the max width in the body. It may look unnecessary and sometimes weird, as paragraphs will be narrower than other elements. But I like the contrast and the shorter lines.

A value of 60ch or 65ch has worked for me in the past, but you can use a different value and adjust the max width to match your needs. Play and explore how it looks on your web page.

Break the bigger chunks of text into smaller blocks for readability

Wrap headings in a more balanced way

h1, h2, h3, h4, h5, h6 { text-wrap: balance; }

  Headings are an essential part of the web structure, but due to their larger size and short(-er) content, they may look weird. Especially when they occupy more than one line. A solution that will help is balancing the headings with text-wrap.

Although balance seems to be the most popular value for text-wrap, it is not the only one. We could also use pretty, which moves an extra word to the last row if needed instead of balancing all the content. Unfortunately, pretty has yet to count on broad support.

Balanced wrapping can improve visibility and readability

Form control colors to match page styles

body { accent-color: #080; /* use your favorite color */ }

  Another small change that does not have a significant impact but that makes things look better. Until recently, we could not style native form controls with CSS and were stuck with the browser display. But things have changed.

Developing a whole component can be a pain, but setting a color that is more similar to the rest of the site and the design system is possible and straightforward with this one-liner.

It's the small details (and colors) that bring the page together

Easy-to-follow table rows

:is(tbody, table) > tr:nth-child(odd) { background: #0001; /* or #fff1 for dark themes */ }

  We must use tables to display data, not for layout. But tables are ugly by default, and we don't want data to look ugly. In particular, one thing that helps organize the data and make it more readable is having a zebra table with alternating dark/light rows.

The one-liner displayed above makes achieving that style easy. It can be simplified to be only tr without considering the tbody or table parent, but it would also apply to the table header, which we may not want. It's a matter of taste.

Easier to follow the data horizontally (by row)

Spacing in table cells and headings

td, th { padding: 0.5em; /* or 0.5em 1em... or any value different from 0 */ }

  One last change to make tables more accessible and easier to read is to space the content slightly by adding padding to the table cells and headers. By default, most browsers don't have any padding, and the text of different cells touches, making it confusing to differentiate where one begins and the other ends.

We can change the padding value to adjust it to our favorite size. However, avoid overdoing it to avoid unnecessary scrolling or too much blank space.

Easier to follow data horizontally and vertically

Reduce animations and movement

@media (prefers-reduced-motion) { *, *::before, *::after { animation-duration: 0s !important; /* additional recommendation */ transition: none !important; scroll-behavior: auto !important; } }

  Okay, okay. This code is way more than a one-liner. It has a one-liner version (removing animations by setting their duration to zero seconds), but other things on a web page make elements move.

By setting these declarations inside the prefers-reduced-motion media query, we will respect the person's choice to have less movement. This approach is somewhat radical because it removes all movement, which may not necessarily be the user's intent -it is "reduced motion" and not "no motion." We can still preserve movement on a case-by-case basis if appropriate.

No animations? No problem!

[dangersam]

Hey everyone, quite a few fixes and improvements have accumulated since the last demo update, so I decided it was worth releasing another one.

Release notes:-

Many optimisations to UI, overlays, and indicators. Improves performance especially with a large number of parts / constructions.

Minor tweaks to builder tool:-

Click and drag "threshold" now only applies to move manipulator.

Prevented dragging the part selection's pivot point below ground.

Increased targeting distance.

Removed "Prevent Interpenetration When Attaching Parts" toggle from "advanced options" (still available in the demo by setting "PartPenetrationTestEnabled" to false in the debug console).

Added toggle to "advanced options" to disable the centre of mass indicator.

Modified control wheel part behaviour to check for player distance and facing direction.

Added option to light part behaviour settings for disabling shadow casting.

Implemented copy paste for part behaviour settings.

Improved part resizing indicator to show numbered unit dimensions.

Gear engagement indicators now shown for all gears in part selection when aligning.

Added settings to controls options to invert horizontal and / or vertical mouse rotation of the part selection.

Updated help UI screen.

Bug fixes.

Upgraded to Unity 2021.3.26.

[radobjectdreamland]

Straddle Carrier Market Growth Forecast: Evaluating Port Automation and Logistics Demand Driving Global Equipment Adoption

Introduction

The straddle carrier market is undergoing significant transformation, driven by the dual forces of port automation and escalating global logistics demands. As ports worldwide strive for enhanced efficiency and reduced environmental impact, straddle carriers have emerged as pivotal equipment in modern cargo handling operations. This article delves into the factors fueling market growth, technological advancements, regional trends, and the challenges shaping the future of straddle carriers.

Market Overview and Growth Projections

Valued at approximately $1.1 billion in 2022, the global straddle carrier market is projected to reach $1.9 billion by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.0%. This growth is underpinned by the increasing need for efficient container handling solutions in the face of expanding global trade and the push towards automated port operations.

Technological Advancements Driving Efficiency

Automation and digitization are at the forefront of straddle carrier evolution. The integration of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced navigation systems has led to the development of autonomous straddle carriers. These innovations enhance operational efficiency, reduce labor costs, and improve safety. AI-enabled systems have demonstrated increased horizontal transportation efficiency and near-perfect accuracy in container handling.

Additionally, the shift towards electric and hybrid straddle carriers addresses environmental concerns. Electric models offer significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals and increasing regulatory pressure to adopt green technologies.

Regional Insights and Market Dynamics

The Asia-Pacific region is poised to dominate the straddle carrier market, driven by rapid industrialization and the expansion of major ports in countries like China, India, and Japan. India, in particular, is expected to witness strong growth, reflecting substantial investments in port infrastructure and logistics capabilities.

In North America and Europe, the focus is on modernizing existing port facilities and adopting sustainable practices. The United States, for example, is exploring increased automation to handle surging import volumes, despite challenges related to labor union negotiations and the high costs associated with full automation.

Challenges and Considerations

While the prospects for the straddle carrier market are promising, several challenges persist. The high initial investment required for automation technologies can be a barrier for some port operators. Additionally, integrating new systems with existing infrastructure demands careful planning and skilled personnel to avoid disruptions in daily operations.

Labor concerns also play a significant role, particularly in regions where automation may impact employment. Balancing technological advancement with workforce considerations remains a critical aspect of strategic planning for port authorities and equipment manufacturers.

Conclusion

The straddle carrier market is on an upward trajectory, fueled by the imperative for efficient, automated, and environmentally sustainable port operations. Technological innovations, regional infrastructure developments, and the global emphasis on reducing carbon footprints are converging to reshape the landscape of cargo handling. As the industry navigates challenges and embraces opportunities, straddle carriers will continue to be integral to the evolution of global logistics and port automation.

[mordorintelligencemarketresearch]

Saudi Arabia’s Construction Industry: Building a Vision for the Future 

Saudi Arabia's construction industry stands at the heart of the country’s ambitious economic transformation. Fueled by Vision 2030—a national development framework to diversify the economy and reduce its dependence on oil revenues—the construction sector is experiencing rapid expansion. The Kingdom is channeling significant investments into mega projects, infrastructure development, residential and commercial real estate, and sustainable urban design. This wave of growth is redefining the landscape of Saudi Arabia while attracting attention from global investors, developers, and construction firms.    The Saudi Arabia Construction Market size is estimated at USD 74.11 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 96.26 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 5.37% during the forecast period (2025-2030).    

Transformation Driven by Vision 2030 

The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative is more than a policy framework—it's a blueprint for reinventing Saudi Arabia's future. It emphasizes diversification through sectors like tourism, entertainment, technology, and sustainable living. Construction lies at the core of this transformation, with numerous high-profile developments designed to reposition the nation as a global hub for innovation, culture, and commerce. 

Mega projects such as Neom, The Line, and New Murabba exemplify this vision. These projects aim to integrate futuristic architecture with smart city technologies and environmental sustainability. Neom, a planned cross-border city, seeks to redefine urban living with autonomous transportation, AI-driven services, and renewable energy sources. Similarly, The Line, a linear city project, aims to eliminate cars and roads entirely, prioritizing walkability and clean energy. 

Residential and Commercial Real Estate Boom 

Saudi Arabia is witnessing an increasing demand for housing, driven by a rising population, a young demographic, and an expanding middle class. Government programs to boost home ownership and provide affordable housing options have created a fertile ground for residential development. 

On the commercial front, Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam are becoming regional centers for business and retail. Office buildings, shopping malls, and mixed-use developments are proliferating to cater to local demand and foreign enterprises seeking entry into the Saudi market. This growth is accompanied by robust demand for hospitality infrastructure to support tourism, another cornerstone of Vision 2030. 

Infrastructure Modernization 

Beyond vertical development, Saudi Arabia is making substantial investments in horizontal infrastructure—roads, bridges, airports, railways, and water treatment facilities. Transport infrastructure is being expanded and upgraded to support both domestic mobility and international connectivity. Projects like the Riyadh Metro and upgrades to existing airports reflect this effort. 

The government also prioritizes utilities infrastructure to support industrial expansion and urban growth. Investments in power generation, water desalination, and wastewater treatment are critical to meeting the needs of new cities and communities emerging across the Kingdom. 

Emphasis on Innovation and Sustainability 

Innovation is no longer a luxury but a necessity in Saudi Arabia’s construction sector. The adoption of advanced construction methods such as modular building, prefabrication, and 3D printing is increasing. These technologies are improving efficiency, reducing waste, and enabling faster project delivery. 

Sustainability is another major focus. New developments are required to meet green building standards and reduce their carbon footprint. Smart building technologies that enhance energy efficiency, water conservation, and environmental monitoring are being integrated from the planning stage onward. This shift reflects a global trend, but also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s goal to be a leader in climate-conscious development in the region. 

Private Sector Participation and Investment 

Saudi Arabia has opened up its construction sector to greater private sector involvement. Through public-private partnerships (PPPs), the government is inviting foreign and local investors to participate in major infrastructure and real estate projects. This collaborative approach not only eases the financial burden on the state but also brings in expertise, innovation, and competition. 

Real estate investment funds and construction conglomerates are actively entering the Saudi market. Incentives such as regulatory reforms, ease of doing business initiatives, and free economic zones are being introduced to attract and retain investors. 

Challenges in the Construction Landscape 

Despite the positive outlook, the construction industry in Saudi Arabia faces several challenges: 

Labor and Workforce Management: The industry relies heavily on migrant labor, raising concerns about labor rights, safety, and welfare. Efforts to reform labor laws and improve working conditions are ongoing but need consistent enforcement. 

Regulatory and Bureaucratic Hurdles: Navigating the regulatory landscape can still be complex. Project approvals, permitting, and land acquisition processes sometimes delay timelines and increase costs. 

Environmental and Social Concerns: Large-scale developments can strain natural resources and ecosystems. Balancing growth with environmental stewardship is crucial, particularly for projects claiming sustainability as a core principle. 

Project Feasibility and Long-Term Viability: Some mega projects have been met with skepticism regarding their feasibility, cost-efficiency, and ability to meet projected returns. Managing scope, timelines, and budgets will be critical to their success. 

The Road Ahead 

Saudi Arabia’s construction industry is poised to remain a pillar of economic development in the coming decade. The pipeline of upcoming projects is extensive, with opportunities across residential, commercial, and industrial segments. As the Kingdom transitions into a more diversified, knowledge-based economy, construction will serve as both a physical and symbolic foundation for change. 

To capitalize on this momentum, stakeholders must focus on innovation, governance, sustainability, and skills development. By overcoming operational challenges and maintaining strategic alignment with Vision 2030, the Saudi construction industry has the potential to set new standards for scale, ambition, and impact in the region.    For a detailed overview and more insights, you can refer to the full market research report by Mordor Intelligence: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/construction-sector-in-the-kingdom-of-saudi-arabia-industry 

[oliviiaagraceeeeee]

Kalkine Canada Technical Review of Sub-Dollar Equities on Canadian Exchanges

Highlights

Sub-dollar equities are assessed using chart-driven tools focusing on volume, price range, and trend analysis.

Canadian exchanges such as the TSX Venture and Canadian Securities Exchange serve as the primary listing venues.

The review includes companies in mining, biotech, energy, and digital sectors, screened using technical consistency filters.

Equities priced below one dollar form a significant subset on Canadian markets, particularly across platforms known for listing early-stage or emerging companies. These include the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV) and the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE). Companies in this segment operate in a variety of sectors such as mineral exploration, healthcare innovation, renewable energy, and software development.

Kalkine Canada applies a systematic approach to review these stocks using established technical analysis principles. Rather than incorporating projections or thematic narratives, the review focuses exclusively on technical data points derived from historical price movement and trading activity.

Screening Criteria and Technical Focus

The technical review is developed using a structured methodology that applies filters to a broad universe of low-priced equities. Core screening parameters include daily trading volume, historical volatility, and price structure reliability. Stocks that demonstrate irregular chart patterns or insufficient liquidity are excluded from the coverage.

Tools used by Kalkine Canada assess price channels, support-resistance zones, and breakout levels. These tools help identify active technical formations without relying on external market assumptions. Volume behaviour is reviewed to ensure alignment with price movement, offering additional clarity on strength or weakness in trends.

Core Indicators and Chart Configuration

Each stock assessed in the report includes standard technical elements such as moving averages, Bollinger Bands, and RSI (Relative Strength Index). Candlestick arrangements are reviewed to detect zones of accumulation or distribution, while chart-based annotations capture directional developments.

Patterns such as symmetrical triangles, descending wedges, and horizontal consolidations are highlighted when present. These formations are presented with their corresponding volume shifts and technical thresholds, with each entry aimed at illustrating recent behaviour through an objective lens.

Coverage Across Key Canadian Platforms

The stocks evaluated are primarily drawn from the TSXV and CSE, where low-priced listings are most concentrated. These exchanges often feature companies in the resource sector, including mining and oil exploration, which undergo frequent technical reassessments due to ongoing operational updates. In addition, biotech firms working on developmental pipelines and technology companies advancing digital products are regularly included.

Kalkine Canada applies an automated filtering system that updates as new stocks meet the specified technical criteria. This ensures the report remains current and relevant, capturing emerging formations without manual bias.

Industry-Level Technical Correlations

When several equities within a sector exhibit synchronized technical signals, the report organizes them by industry. For example, if multiple energy companies reflect consistent MACD crossovers or RSI convergence, they are grouped under the sector heading. Similar treatment is given to material stocks, cannabis firms, or digital service providers showing cohesive trend behaviour.

Chart snapshots are paired with concise annotations identifying trend indicators such as moving average crossovers or narrowing Bollinger Band ranges. This format supports a comparative view across sectors based strictly on chart signals.

Report Delivery and Structure

Each stock entry in the report includes the ticker symbol, exchange listing, and a visual summary of recent technical behaviour. The format is built for efficiency, allowing readers to scan multiple stocks quickly while maintaining clarity on the technical backdrop of each.

The full report, curated by Kalkine Canada, is hosted on a structured platform that supports timely updates. Users are notified when stocks enter the technical radar based on volume and price screeners. The aim is to offer a consistently objective presentation of sub-dollar equities using only measurable, chart-based data across the Canadian and US markets.

[swimwithturtlesgoldcoast]

What Does a Surveyor Do During New Construction Projects?

When it comes to new construction projects, there are numerous professionals involved in ensuring that the work is done to the highest standards and according to local regulations. One such professional is a surveyor. Their role is vital throughout the construction process, ensuring that the project proceeds with accuracy and compliance. But what does a surveyor do during new construction projects? This article dives into the various responsibilities of a surveyor and explains why their expertise is crucial for the successful completion of construction work.

The Role of a Surveyor in New Construction Projects

A surveyor in the context of new construction projects is responsible for gathering precise measurements and data about the land and its surroundings. This data is essential for engineers, architects, and construction teams to design and build safely and according to plan. Without a surveyor, the risk of mistakes or compliance issues could significantly increase, potentially costing time and money.

Initial Site Surveys and Land Evaluation

At the start of any new construction project, a surveyor conducts an initial site survey. This involves measuring the land, analyzing the topography, and determining boundary lines. What does a surveyor do during new construction projects at this stage? They provide crucial information about the land's elevation, slope, and any existing features, such as trees, roads, or buildings.

This survey is important for various reasons:

Establishing Boundaries: The surveyor identifies where the property lines are, ensuring there are no encroachments or disputes with neighbors.

Topographical Data: The surveyor provides information about the natural landscape, which helps architects and engineers design the project.

Geotechnical Considerations: In some cases, surveyors may also assess soil quality, which is crucial for determining foundation requirements.

This early involvement sets the foundation for the entire construction process and is an essential first step to avoid potential problems later on.

Setting Out the Building Plan

Once the site survey is complete, the next responsibility of the surveyor is setting out the building plan. This process involves transferring the design of the building from paper (or digital plans) to the actual construction site.

What does a surveyor do during new construction projects at this stage? They use precise measurements to mark the locations of foundations, roads, utilities, and other key features on the ground. This is often done using specialized equipment like GPS systems, total stations, and laser scanners. Setting out is crucial to ensure that the construction work proceeds in the right locations and aligns with the architectural design.

Monitoring the Progress of Construction

Surveyors play a key role in monitoring construction progress to ensure that the building is being constructed as planned. This involves conducting regular checks throughout the construction process to verify that the measurements and alignment of the project are correct.

What does a surveyor do during new construction projects in this phase? They:

Check vertical and horizontal alignment to ensure the structure is being built in the correct position.

Verify the levels of the foundation and other major structures.

Ensure compliance with local zoning laws and building codes.

Surveyors use advanced tools to track changes and detect errors early. This proactive approach helps to avoid costly mistakes, rework, or delays, especially when dealing with complex projects.

Providing Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Surveyors also ensure that all aspects of a construction project comply with the relevant legal and regulatory frameworks. Whether it's ensuring the proper placement of structures within zoning laws or making sure the project meets environmental and safety standards, the surveyor helps the project stay compliant from start to finish.

What does a surveyor do during new construction projects in this regard? They:

Confirm that the construction complies with land use regulations.

Provide reports required by authorities or other stakeholders, including documentation on boundaries, setbacks, and any required permits.

Ensure that the building is aligned with planning permissions and other legal requirements, helping to avoid legal disputes.

Their role extends to ensuring that any adjustments made during construction are accurately recorded and compliant with the original plans or any approved amendments.

Final Survey and Handover

After the construction is completed, the surveyor conducts a final survey to ensure that everything has been built to specification and within the required tolerances.

What does a surveyor do during new construction projects in the final phase? The surveyor:

Verifies that the building is properly aligned, level, and built according to the approved plans.

Provides final certification that the construction complies with all local laws and regulations.

May conduct a boundary survey to confirm that the property lines are correctly marked for future reference, especially if the property is being subdivided.

In many cases, this final survey is necessary for obtaining occupancy permits, registering the property with local authorities, and transferring the property to its new owners.

The Tools and Techniques Used by Surveyors

Surveyors use a variety of tools and techniques to carry out their tasks. These tools ensure the accuracy and reliability of their work, which is essential for the success of any construction project.

Total Stations: A total station is an electronic/optical instrument used for measuring angles and distances. It's commonly used for setting out buildings and monitoring the construction process.

Global Positioning System (GPS): Surveyors often use GPS systems for precise measurements, especially for large-scale projects or when high accuracy is required.

Laser Scanning: Laser scanners provide detailed 3D data about a site, allowing surveyors to capture the exact contours of the landscape.

Drones: In some cases, drones are used to capture aerial images and topographic data, particularly for larger construction projects or difficult-to-access sites.

These advanced tools allow surveyors to provide precise, reliable data, helping ensure the accuracy of the construction project.

Why Surveyors Are Essential for New Construction Projects

Without surveyors, the risk of errors in design, construction, or legal compliance would significantly increase. Their involvement at every stage of the construction project ensures that the final structure is safe, accurate, and in full compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

In short, what does a surveyor do during new construction projects? They provide critical measurements, monitor the progress of construction, ensure legal compliance, and ensure that everything is built to plan. Their role is indispensable in making sure that the construction project is completed successfully, on time, and within budget.

Conclusion

Surveyors are integral to the success of any new construction project. They offer expertise in measuring, planning, and verifying the alignment of the project with architectural and legal standards. Whether they are conducting an initial site survey, monitoring construction progress, or providing final certifications, their role is pivotal in ensuring that projects are built accurately and compliantly. With the help of surveyors, construction projects can proceed smoothly and without costly errors.

[evehkimblog]

Week 8 SDL 2.6 Contextual Annotation: Motion Graphics

The motion was designed by Hyunho Yang, with graphic design by Eojin Kim and Hyunho Yang, produced under the Seoul-based studio Everyday Practice.

This poster explores the theme of speculative futures through the question “What If?”. It visualises the fusion of art and technology using a dynamic visual system that reflects cultural transformation in response to scientific advancement. The design aims to establish a modular identity system that is flexible, adaptive, and forward-thinking.

The animation combines position-based transitions, rhythmic repetition, and grid realignment to create a sense of systematic motion, echoing the logic and structure of data. The way text disappears and reappears mimics a blinking effect, evoking the fleeting nature of imagination and uncertainty prompted by the festival’s theme.

Typography is the central element, treated as both message and form. With minimal illustrative or visual distraction, the use of a narrow, horizontally compressed typeface allows the motion to express compression, tension, and flow, emphasizing transformation and variability.

The pacing is precise and mechanical, with consistent rhythm interrupted by moments of acceleration and deceleration. This structured timing supports the festival’s tech-driven identity, while flickering and scattered text animations introduce a feeling of shifting possibilities and imagined futures.

This piece expands my understanding of motion design as a tool for communicating conceptual tone and systems, not just visual aesthetics. It reminds me of the value of repetition, alignment, and modular structure.

In my own work, it encourages me to explore more ways of visualising ideas without relying heavily on illustration. The way this project uses type alone to convey meaning is something I want to learn from and apply to my work.

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[dimconcomp48]

Dimensional Control Survey Companies

Dimensional Control Survey Companies: Precision Partners in Modern Industry

In a world driven by infrastructure, energy, technology, and large-scale manufacturing, precision is everything. The accuracy of measurements and the alignment of structures and systems can make or break a project. This is why dimensional control survey companies are becoming essential partners across industries. These specialized firms bring the technical expertise and advanced equipment needed to ensure that structures are built, assembled, and installed exactly as designed—eliminating costly errors, enhancing safety, and saving time.

Dimensional control survey companies provide a level of precision that general surveying often cannot. Whether working on offshore platforms, industrial facilities, or aerospace components, they apply rigorous measurement techniques that ensure every part fits together with minimal tolerance for deviation. Their services help bring complex engineering plans to life with exactness and confidence.

Understanding the Role of Dimensional Control Survey Companies

Dimensional control is a specialized branch of surveying that focuses on measuring and verifying precise locations, alignments, and geometries of structures, systems, or fabricated parts. Dimensional control survey companies offer this high-accuracy measurement service using advanced technologies such as laser trackers, total stations, 3D scanners, and coordinate measuring systems. Their job is to ensure that the physical reality of a project matches the engineering design.

Unlike traditional land surveyors who may map topography, boundaries, or elevations over large areas, dimensional control surveyors deal with refined, detailed measurements often within fractions of a millimeter. Their expertise is especially critical in fields where misalignments can lead to significant delays, rework, safety hazards, or equipment failure.

Industries That Rely on Dimensional Control Survey Companies

Dimensional control survey companies serve as strategic partners across numerous high-stakes sectors:

Oil and Gas In both offshore and onshore environments, dimensional control helps ensure accurate installation of modules, platforms, piping systems, and subsea components. This avoids stress points, misfits, and costly installation issues.

Marine and Shipbuilding Ship construction demands flawless alignment between hulls, propulsion systems, engines, and other structural components. Dimensional control ensures precise fits even in large-scale builds.

Construction and Civil Infrastructure From skyscrapers to stadiums, construction projects benefit from dimensional verification of columns, beams, and prefabricated modules, especially when steel and concrete tolerances must match engineering models.

Aerospace and Defense Aircraft and military equipment require extremely tight tolerances. Survey companies use laser-based systems to verify geometry during fabrication and final assembly, contributing to safety and functionality.

Renewable Energy Wind farms, solar fields, and hydro projects all rely on accurate positioning to optimize energy generation. Dimensional control ensures turbines, panels, and mechanical systems are properly aligned.

Heavy Industry and Manufacturing Large components such as pressure vessels, turbines, cranes, and automation systems must be aligned during installation and throughout their lifecycle. Dimensional control survey companies assist in both setup and periodic verification.

Core Services Offered by Dimensional Control Survey Companies

Dimensional control survey companies typically offer a range of precision-based services including:

As-Built Verification: Confirming that a structure or component has been constructed exactly according to design drawings or models.

Alignment and Leveling: Ensuring that mechanical and structural systems are aligned with exact horizontal or vertical axes.

Fabrication Verification: Checking prefabricated components before transport or installation to prevent fit-up issues in the field.

Pre-Installation Surveys: Verifying anchor points, support structures, and layout prior to installation of major components.

Post-Installation Analysis: Assessing how closely the finished installation aligns with engineering plans and identifying any deviations.

Reverse Engineering: Capturing the dimensions of existing components or environments to produce updated drawings or digital models.

Key Technologies Used

To deliver these services, dimensional control survey companies rely on some of the most advanced surveying technologies available:

Laser Trackers: Portable, high-precision instruments used for measuring large components in real-time.

3D Laser Scanners: Capable of capturing entire environments in point clouds for modeling and measurement.

Total Stations: Combining optical and distance measurements to determine precise coordinates of points in space.

Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs): Often used in manufacturing settings for tight-tolerance parts.

CAD and Modeling Software: Used to compare measured data against 3D design models for deviation analysis.

Benefits of Working with Dimensional Control Survey Companies

There are several advantages to partnering with a professional dimensional control survey company:

Extreme Accuracy: These firms are trained to deliver measurements with sub-millimeter precision, ensuring parts and structures fit as designed.

Reduced Rework and Downtime: Catching issues early saves time and money, especially on large projects where mistakes can ripple through entire workflows.

Compliance and Quality Control: Ensuring installations meet regulatory and safety standards is easier with verified, documented measurements.

Improved Efficiency: Dimensional control supports lean project execution by reducing the need for trial-and-error adjustments.

Advanced Visualization: The use of 3D point clouds and digital models helps stakeholders better understand the data and plan accordingly.

Challenges in the Field

Although the work of dimensional control survey companies is vital, it is not without challenges:

Complex Working Conditions: Many jobs take place in active construction zones, harsh environments, or remote offshore sites.

Technical Demands: Operators need extensive training to manage, calibrate, and interpret data from complex equipment.

Data Management: Large volumes of measurement data must be accurately processed, stored, and analyzed without loss or error.

Coordination with Project Teams: Survey companies must work closely with engineers, designers, and construction crews to ensure that their data informs the project efficiently.

Trends Shaping the Future of Dimensional Control Surveying

Several trends are transforming how dimensional control survey companies operate and deliver value:

Automation and Robotics: Robotic scanning systems are being deployed to improve consistency and safety in repetitive tasks.

Cloud-Based Collaboration: Survey data is increasingly shared and accessed in real-time via cloud platforms, improving communication across project teams.

Integration with BIM and Digital Twins: As-built data from dimensional control is being integrated into Building Information Modeling (BIM) systems and digital twin environments for ongoing maintenance and simulation.

Sustainability and Asset Lifecycle Management: Long-term monitoring using dimensional control data helps identify shifts, wear, and potential failure points in infrastructure and machinery.

Conclusion

Dimensional control survey companies are the backbone of precision in the built environment. They bring together advanced technology, skilled personnel, and refined methodologies to ensure that every element of a complex project aligns with exact specifications. From oil rigs to aircraft, bridges to industrial robots, these companies help shape our world with millimeter-level certainty.

As industries push the boundaries of what’s possible in design and construction, the need for expert dimensional control only becomes more urgent. Choosing to work with a professional dimensional control survey company isn’t just about accuracy—it’s about investing in safety, efficiency, and long-term project success.