#sensor select monitor

[sw5w]

Our Missing Planet Kamino

STAR WARS EPISODE II: Attack of the Clones

[dandelionsresilience]

Dandelion News - January 15-21

Like these weekly compilations? Tip me at $kaybarr1735 or check out my Dandelion Doodles!

1. Landmark debt swap to protect Indonesia’s coral reefs

“The government of Indonesia announced this week a deal to redirect more than US$ 35 million it owes to the United States into the conservation of coral reefs in the most biodiverse ocean area on Earth.”

2. [FWS] Provides Over $1.3 Billion to Support Fish and Wildlife Conservation and Outdoor Access

“Through these combined funds, agencies have supported monitoring and management of over 500 species of wild mammals and birds, annual stocking of over 1 billion fish, operations of fish and wildlife disease laboratories around the country, and provided hunter and aquatic education to millions of students.”

3. Philippine Indigenous communities restore a mountain forest to prevent urban flooding

“Indigenous knowledge systems and practices are considered in the project design, and its leaders and members have been involved throughout the process, from agreeing to participate to identifying suitable land and selecting plant species that naturally grow in the area.”

4. Responsible Offshore Wind Development is a Clear Win for Birds, the U.S. Economy, and our Climate

“[T]he total feasible offshore wind capacity along U.S. coasts is more than three times the total electricity generated nationwide in 2023. […] Proven strategies, such as reducing visible lights on turbines and using perching deterrents on turbines, have been effective in addressing bird impacts.”

5. Illinois awards $100M for electric truck charging corridor, Tesla to get $40M

“The project will facilitate the construction of 345 electric truck charging ports and pull-through truck charging stalls across 14 sites throughout Illinois[…. E]lectrifying [the 30,000 daily long-haul] trucks would make a huge impact in the public health and quality of life along the heavily populated roadways.”

6. Reinventing the South Florida seawall to help marine life, buffer rising seas

“[The new seawall] features raised areas inspired by mangrove roots that are intended to both provide nooks and crannies for fish and crabs and other marine creatures and also better absorb some of the impact from waves and storm surges.”

7. Long Beach Commits to 100% All-Electric Garbage Trucks

“[Diesel garbage trucks] produce around a quarter of all diesel pollution in California and contribute to 1,400 premature deaths every year. Electric options, on the other hand, are quieter than their diesel counterparts and produce zero tailpipe emissions.”

8. ‘This Is a Victory': Biden Affirms ERA Has Been 'Ratified' and Law of the Land

“President Joe Biden on Friday announced his administration's official opinion that the amendment is ratified and its protections against sex-based discrimination are enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.”

9. A Little-Known Clean Energy Solution Could Soon Reach ‘Liftoff’

“Ground source heat pumps could heat and cool the equivalent of 7 million homes by 2035—up from just over 1 million today[…. G]eothermal energy is generally considered to be more popular among Republicans than other forms of clean energy, such as wind and solar.”

10. Researchers combine citizens' help and cutting-edge tech to track biodiversity

“Researchers in the project, which runs from 2022 to 2026, are experimenting with tools like drones, cameras and sensors to collect detailed data on different species, [… and] Observation.org, a global biodiversity platform where people submit pictures of animals and plants, helping to identify and monitor them.”

January 8-14 news here | (all credit for images and written material can be found at the source linked; I don’t claim credit for anything but curating.)

[materialsscienceandengineering]

Researchers have developed a new optical sensor that provides a simple way to achieve real-time detection of extremely low levels of arsenic in water. The technology could enable household testing for arsenic, empowering individuals to monitor their own water quality. Arsenic contamination is a serious environmental and public health challenge affecting millions of people around the world. This contamination occurs when natural geological processes release arsenic from rocks and soil into groundwater and can be exacerbated by mining, industrial waste disposal and use of arsenic-based pesticides. "Consuming arsenic-contaminated water can lead to severe health conditions including arsenic poisoning and cancers of the skin, lung, kidney and bladder," said lead researcher Sunil Khijwania from the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati. "By creating a sensor that is sensitive, selective, reusable and cost-effective, we aim to address the need for a reliable and user-friendly tool for routine monitoring, helping to protect communities from the risks of arsenic exposure."

Read more.

[altaqwaelectric]

Top 5 Industrial Automation Low-Voltage Switchgear Accessories You Need to Utilize

Stable and proper electrical systems are most important in industrial automation, and low-voltage switchgear is one of the most important elements that connects these systems. However, to reach the best performance, safety, and lifespan, the correct accessories for low-voltage switchgear need to be selected.

In this article, we will discuss the 5 must-have low-voltage switchgear accessories that industrial automation requires to run at its optimum and be less down.

1. Circuit Breakers – Protection and Safety from Overloading

Circuit breakers are the most important devices of low-voltage switchgear equipment. Circuit breakers safeguard electric circuits from problems like short circuits, overloads, and faults by breaking power supply to the circuit when they detect abnormal conditions.

Why They Are Important?

- Protect equipment from electrical fire and damage.

- Comply with industry safety standards.

- Recover quickly from a fault.

Recommendation: Use high-level circuit breakers with remote monitoring and diagnostic capabilities to improve automation efficiency.

2. Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) – Voltage Spike Protection

Voltage spikes and transients destroy electrical equipment in automation systems. SPDs function by absorbing excess voltage, thereby safeguarding sensitive hardware.

Why They Are Important?

- Reduce electrical surge downtime.

- Protect the automatic equipment and control panel from damage.

- Extend the life of electrical equipment.

Pro Tip: Install SPDs with real-time sensing sensors. That way, you can detect and fix voltage problems as they occur.

3. Busbar Systems – More Efficient Power Distribution

A busbar system is important since it allows the transmission of electrical energy more efficiently in switchgear setups. Busbars conduct better, lose less energy, and work better with systems than regular wiring.

Why They Matter?

- Simplified and less costly wiring installation.

- Minimization of energy losses by reducing the power loss.

- Simple extension to and integration with automated systems.

It is suggested that insulated busbar systems shall be employed for safety and to prevent accidental short circuits.

4. Motor Protection Relays – Intelligent Monitoring for Motors

Electric motors are a fundamental component of industrial automation. Motor protection relays safeguard motors against overloading, phase imbalance, and overheating to enable motors to run faultlessly and continuously.

Why Are They Important?

- Prevent costly motor failure and operational downtime.

- Allow remote monitoring for easy predictive maintenance. - Improve operational efficiency with auto-reset.

Tip: Incorporate programmable motor protection relays with automation systems for real-time monitoring and control.

5. Remote Monitoring and Control Devices – Increasing Automation Scope

New businesses must monitor switchgear remotely to be efficient and have low maintenance costs.

Remote monitoring devices allow operators to monitor voltage levels, power consumption, and system status from a distance.

Why Are They Important?

- Perform routine maintenance to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

- Require fewer resources and time to reduce manual inspections.

- Increase system reliability with real-time fault notifications.

Pro Tip: Implement IoT-enabled remote monitoring systems for easy integration with industrial automation systems.

Final Thoughts:

Buy good quality low-voltage switchgear accessories when you purchase them for safety, performance, and efficiency in industrial automation.

Circuit breakers, surge protective devices, busbar systems, motor protection relays, and remote monitoring systems will help you to ensure a healthy and strong electrical system.

[bluescarfvivi]

“Why do we have to wear all these ridiculous ties?”

Oh you wanna know why? I'll tell you why. It's symbolic. The management wants you to know that you're their dog, so you're wearing their leash. You don't see me wearing a tie, do you? You know why? Because I'm a rebel. The day they try to enforce the dress code on me, I let them know there could be an accident around here if that happened. And by 'accident' I mean 'bomb the place'. Hey are you even listening? Eh forget you. My voice falls on deaf ears. I don't even know why I waste my time on you sheep. I wonder if Feynman felt the same way. What the hell? Whose stuff is this? There's my name, but... But, here's a bowling certificate, baby pictures, blue poncho...? WHERE'S ALL MY STUFF?! WHERE'S MY STASH?! This is freaking me out. It's like everything's backwards, and I'm not even left-handed. Okay, I'm just gonna go to work and hope all these problems go away. Yeah. Oh, come on! Now somebody's taken my helmet! Eh, screw it, I probably won't need it anyway. HEV: Welcome to the HEV Mark 4 Protective system. Oh no, there's that voice. HEV: For use in hazardous environment conditions. Shh! HEV: High-impact reactive armor: activated; Atmospheric contaminant sensors: activated; Quiet! HEV: Vital sign monitoring: activated; Automatic medical systems: engaged; Wow, this suit does not shut up. HEV: Defensive weapon selection system: activated; Munition level monitoring: activated; Communications interface: online; Okay, this thing's ridiculous. Where's the 'off' button? HEV: Have a very sa-- [beep] There we go. Huh, didn't it say, "Munitions level monitoring"? What does that mean? Does the left hand turn into a chaingun? I wish! GUARD: Go right on through, sir. Looks like you're in the barrel today. Oh! Did he just say I'm in the barrel today? Oooh, shit! Looks like I'm not the only person here who knows some dirty jokes. "You're in the barrel..." I can't believe he said that. I bet he says that to the other scientists and it goes right over their head. He probably thinks I don't know what it means either, but I do.

Send my muse unhinged anons

"...is this gibberish supposed to mean something?"

"I killed twelve dumbass scientists and not one of 'em fought back, Mr. Freeman..."

[g-girlshavingfun]

December Prompts

14) Silent films - Abby x Townsend

Set in between OSOT and UWS, Townsend and Abby are doing surveillance on the Winters in Rome when they start talking about the past. (3,243)

———————————————————————

There was a lingering chill in the air of their apartment. Carefully selected so that they could see the Embassy from the restricted access roof, not overlooked by other nearby buildings so as to avoid counter-surveillance, limited entrances but plenty of local security cameras so they could detect any suspicious activity approaching. It was a compromise between the safe house Edward selected, further from their targets but easier to monitor their own safety, and the hotel room Abby had voted for, a direct view of Samual Winter’s office window but absolutely no security measures to protect their anonymity.

Neither were particularly happy with the solution they came to, but it would do.

The chill was creeping in from the open window, cracked ajar so that their sensors could pick up any suspicious noise activity from outside, so that any bugs that were missed in Abby’s initial sweep, in his subsequent three more, would be scrambled by the sounds of traffic. Edward didn’t mind the cold so much, nor the noise, it kept him awake. It bit at his fingers and clawed through his skin, slipping through his bones and breathing life into his overworked brain.

Plus, it reminded him of London, of the north of England where his mother’s family resided. Once upon a time he would said that it reminded him of home, but now he wasn’t so sure.

“Why’s it so cold in here?”

Speaking of which.

“I thought Italy was supposed to be warm and sunny, like beaches and sunhats and gelato.”

“It’s the middle of the night in December Abigail, my apologies that the temperature doesn't quite meet your tropic expectations.”

“Can we at least close the window? I can see my breath.”

“Perhaps opening your mouth less will solve that problem.” He could sense her, feel her rolling her eyes behind his back. “Besides, we need the open window to get a good range on our listening equipment, we wont be able to hear anything from the Embassy’s perimeter if we close it.” At any given time, there were close to twenty different trains of thought running through Abigail Cameron’s head, and close to zero of them were concerned with her personal safety and self-preservation, so he didn’t think a lecture on monitoring activity in and around their own hideout would be too effective. “There’s tea here if you’re cold.” He nodded towards the mugs nestled amongst blueprints and schedules and known associate profiles, prepared by himself a short moment ago when he heard her start to wrap up her phone call.

He heard a huff from behind the couch and felt her start to round it, muttering a mocking imitation of his words and his accent under her breath. Not a phone call with their superiors then, that wouldn’t have put her in such a childish state, nor with Solomon, who she spent most of her time teasing recently, leaving her in a relatively good mood each time they spoke. She was too grumpy to have been speaking to either Baxter, too energised to have been speaking with her niece. Edward suspected that it had been Rachel ending their talk with a lecture on staying safe, or Miss McHenry calling to try needle information from her again that had left her so aggravated.

She came into view out the corner of his eye and he felt his head begin to turn involuntarily, jaw tightening and teeth clenching in an effort to keep his mouth from gaping.

Despite her incessant whining about the temperature, Abby wasn’t exactly dressed with warmth in mind. Her feet were bare, toes curling against the cool tile beneath them, as were her legs, pale in the dark glow of the sitting room. They seemed to stretch for miles, strong muscles carving their way up her figure and eventually disappearing beneath the hem of her oversized button up shirt. His shirt, he corrected himself. It hung loosely around her thighs, buttoned up to her chest, sleeves folded back so they only just hung over her wrists. Her hair fell loose over her collarbones, around her shoulders, down her back, dark waves glistening almost as bright as her eyes in the gloom of the night.

It wasn’t fair that she could look so stunning when he was trying to think straight.

Clearing his throat, he tried to force something intelligible out of his mouth before he stated drooling. “You know Abigail, most people might think about layering up before complaining that they’re cold.”

A smirk danced across her face, obviously catching the way his eyes had latched onto her legs, the way a flush was building up his cheeks, the way his breath had caught in his chest. “Oh I’m sorry Townsend, did you want me to put something else on?”

Grumbling under his breath, he forced his gaze away from her, unwilling to give her the satisfaction of lying, unwilling to look at her and tell her no. Her resultant laugh made him breathless. She settled next to him on the couch, knees tucked to her chest and hands curled around one of the mugs, angled slightly so they could still catch each other’s eyes without turning their heads. Her smile was infectious. The shirt had risen slightly up her legs as she sat, releasing a small pair of shorts hugging her upper thighs, and for a moment he found himself disappointed. She was so close her could smell her, jasmine perfume clinging to her neck.

He wanted to kiss her.

All he wanted to do these days was kiss her.

But they didn’t do that anymore. Not since the afternoon in Buenos Aires when he woke up with a head stuffed full of cotton, delirious from the drugs she had slipped into his system the previous night. Not since he had woken up alone in bed, alone in their room, a note of apology left on his bedside table. Not since he had tracked her down at the sight of a suspected Circle handover, fire wreaking through the the old building, her lithe body crumpled on the ground beneath an exploded wall several stories up, not moving, not responding, not breathing. Not since he had stood over her hospital bed, screaming at her in furious whispers of betrayal and lies and irresponsibility, mindful of her sleeping sister in the same room, tears on both their cheeks and heartbreak in his chest.

No. Now they stuck to safer territory. Bickering about work and their personalities and their lives. Ignoring how his heart ached when he heard that she was shot, how she came straight to him when she thought her best friend had betrayed her family, how they both dropped everything to scour the continents together after Cameron went missing. Ignoring how he longed for her more than anything.

It was easier that way.

Chest tight, pulse racing, brain short-circuiting as she tucked her toes under his leg for warmth, Edward wasn’t sure if that was accurate anymore.

“You need to get your circulation checked, it can’t be normal for someone’s feet to be that cold.” He batted at her legs half heartedly with the blueprints to the building opposite the Embassy.

“You need to get your personality checked, it can’t be normal for someone to be that annoying.”

“And yet here you are.” Like a child, she stuck her tongue out at him, a smile gleaming in both their eyes.

Looking away from him, she curled up tighter into the couch, nodding her head towards the black and white picture displayed on the TV. “What are we watching?” A gentle smile danced across her face as he draped a blanket over her, one foot peeking out from under his leg to prod at the work spread out on the table before him. “Besides the scintillatingly entertaining list of customers who visit the local coffee stand. We better keep an eye out for Misty Furglough, that’s a suspicious amount of espressos she’s buying”

Head shaking at her teasing tone, trying valiantly not to rise to her challenge, he dropped what he was reading back on the table. “ It’s A Christmas Carol. From 1910.”

“Hmm, I’ve only seen the muppets version.”

He stared at her, long and hard. They had known each other for years, had worked together on countless assignments, had shared a room and a bed and a heart. He knew her intimately, knew where scars stained her skin, knew the sounds her throat made when she lost control, knew the exact spots where a kiss made her body arch and toes curl. Reading her was second nature to him now. And yet sometimes he couldn’t tell if the amusement in her eyes could be attributed to the lies she was telling, or the exasperated reaction she knew he’d have.

“You’re joking right?” Her grin only grew, something devilish gleaming in her eyes. “Abigail. Tell me you’re joking.”

“The Muppet Christmas Carol has the most direct quotes from the book-”

“It’s basically a glorified puppet show-”

“Muppets, they’re very different. Besides Michael Cain is brilliant-”

“He could’ve won an Oscar for all I care, it doesn’t make it the best-”

“Oh because your opinion is obviously absolute fact-”

“A Christmas Carol is a Dickens’ classic-”

“Funnily enough Townsend, I know who wrote the book.”

“-there’s no way the best version has talking frogs playing the Cratchits!”

“Half of them are talking pigs actually.” She paused for a moment, assessing him, “Wait you’ve actually seen it?”

His cheeks flamed. Grumbling, he ignored her delighted laugh, ignored the way his heart lit up in response. “I have nieces and a nephew you know.”

Smile impossibly soft, eyes gentle, she whispered a simple “I know,” humming quietly to herself afterwards. Edward didn’t bother trying to dissect what that meant. No matter how long he knew her, how much he felt in his bones that he knew everything about her, there would always be things about Abigail Cameron that he didn’t quite understand.

Biting her lip in thought, she turned back to the TV and assessed it for a moment. “Why isn’t anyone talking?”

“It’s from 1910 Abigail, it’s a silent film.”

“What?” She spun back to face him, eyes wide, face aghast as if he just told her that the film ends with a thousand puppies exploding as everyone cheers.

“Silent. You know, that state you sometimes enter in sleep.”

“Oh haha Townsend.” Eyes rolling at his sarcasm, her own dry tone dripping off her tongue, she huffed and crossed her arms like a petulant child. Edward felt his face doing something embarrassingly soft at the pout on her face, was relieved when she turned away from him again to glare at the TV. “That’s so boring, how am I supposed to tell my Ghosts of Christmas Past from my Ghosts of Christmas Future?”

“Usually by paying attention to the film instead of talking over it-”

“There’s no sound to talk over Townsend, I think you’ll live.”

“-and it’s actually The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come.” He couldn’t help it. He knew correcting her would rile her up but he just couldn’t resist.

“God you’re so pretentious.” The glare she shot him was weak, the smirk quirking in the corner of her mouth and the sparkle in her eyes betraying her amusement. “Is this the kind of shit they drilled into you at that fancy Cambridge college of yours?” Much like him, she was only saying it to get a rise out him, getting it wrong on purpose to piss him off. He shouldn’t give her the satisfaction. Shouldn’t give in.

“… It was Oxford.”

“Pretentious” The way she sang the word simultaneously grated on his nerves and made his own heart sing in his chest. It still amazed him how she was so easily able to do both at once.

“You went to one of the most prestigious boarding schools in America and you’re calling me pretentious?”

“Hey you’re the one choosing to watch a silent, black and white, ancient movie instead of something cool like Love Actually.”

“Love Actually is crap.”

“It’s fun Townsend, ever heard of fun?”

Sometime during their bickering they had shifted closer together. Arms wrapped around her knees, she was angled towards him, so close that he could sense his body heat seeping towards her, could count the freckles on her face, could feel her words tickle through his hair. Suddenly, he was very aware of his body. His arm was tense at his side, resisting the urge to wrap his hand around her calf, or entangle his fingers with hers, or reach around her to pull her into his chest. His head was tilted down to face hers, Abby’s own lifted up towards him, their mouths close enough that he could taste her breath on his lips. Gaze locked on her smile, the lift of her lips, the dimpling of her cheek, he didn’t miss when it started to fade, when she swallowed, mouth slightly agape.

She took a deep breath. Braced herself. Whispered into the silence that lingered in the limited space between them.

“You left.” Something in her voice hurt him, yanked his innards out of his chest and pulled them apart in front of him. “In the hospital… why did you leave?”

Caught off guard by the shift in tone, not quite being able to follow her train of thought, he gave her a questioning look, voice low with worry. “After you were shot? I thought- I didn’t think you’d want to see me. We weren’t really talking at the time.”

“No not then. I mean-” Shaking her head slowly, she cut herself off, something like confusion, like contemplation plastered across her face. “What do you mean after I was shot?”

He didn’t want to speak of it. Couldn’t speak of it. All he could think to do was raise his arm and gently run his fingers under her collarbone. There was no mark, no scar, her school’s invention doing wonders to hide the evidence of one of the worst nights of his life, but he knew that that’s where the bullet had hit, how he had almost lost her.

“You came to the hospital?” Voice impossibly small, impossibly unsure, her question sent him back in time to the moment Grace Baxter walked into his office, solemn grief already painted across her face. The moment when his world stopped, his chest cracking open, his heart thousand’s of miles and an ocean away. Edward doesn't remember leaving the office, doesn't remember getting in a taxi or a plane, doesn't remember arriving at the hospital frantically calling Rachel to find out what room she was in, he only remembers the ache of not being with her, the fear of losing her.

It was confusing. He thought nothing could be worse than Buenos Aires, could be worse than having her, loving her, and then losing her. He thought thousands of mile and years of silence between them meant that the next time she tried to throw her life away it wouldn’t hurt. He didn’t understand how it could hurt more.

“Of course I did.” How could she think he’d do anything else? “You were- I thought you were…” He trailed off, not wanting to breathe life into his darkest thoughts from that day, his deepest fears, his most endless nightmares.

The silence hung between them again. A Christmas Carol had come to an end, silent credits now rolling across the screen, and the traffic outside seemed to have reached a standstill, Rome unusually quiet this December night.

“Why did you leave?” She asked again. He started to respond as he had before, but she cut him off again, ever impatient. “Not last year, not in DC. After Buenos Aires you- I know we fought but… you just left.”

“I-” He couldn’t look at her. He couldn’t breath. He couldn’t stay there. He was terrified and furious and so hurt. But he couldn’t say all of that, it would hurt her, he didn’t want to do that anymore. “I didn’t get it, you, before.” Frowning, she started to inch away from him, but he couldn’t have that. He grabbed her hand, smoothed his thumb over her knuckles, held it to his chest. He was suddenly very serious. “I didn’t get how you could do to me what The Circle did to your sister.”

“What?” She looked so confused, shaking her head at him as if she couldn’t comprehend that he cared about her that much. “It was nothing like that we- you-”

It would’ve been worse, Edward thinks. Knows. He’s met Rachel Morgan, has seen her strength and her resilience, has seen her push through her grief for the sake of her daughter if nothing else. He wouldn’t have be able to do that. If he had lost Abigail there would be nothing holding him together anymore, he would’ve unravelled, he would’ve fallen apart at the seams with nobody left to put him back together again.

Seeing her struggle with her words, unsure for perhaps the first time in her life, he continued. “But now I’ve seen you with them, your family. Your sister and your niece, her friends, even Solomon.” Swallowing hard, he tried to get his words right, tried not to get distracted by the feel of her hand in his. “You’d throw yourself into the first sign of danger not because you’re reckless or irresponsible or selfish, but because you love them. Because you think you love them more than they could ever love you. And even though you’re wrong,” she rolled her eyes at that, tears stinging in the corners of them, “I get it now. I get you.”

“You get me?” Head cocked to the side, eyebrow raised in challenge, grin tugging at her lips, she dared him to say it. He wasn’t one to back down, not from her.

“I love you.”

Eyes closed in something like relief, a deep breath of air leapt out of her chest, smile stretching wide across her face. Dropping his hand to reach out and caress his face, his cheek, his jaw, her other hand grasping his arm, she dropped her forehead to rest near his lips. He pressed a long kiss to it, savouring the taste of her. Lifting her head back up, teeth clamped around her lip in thought, tears shining in her eyes, she gestured to the work laid out across the table with her head.

“That comes first. Tracking down Circle members, taking them down, protecting my family, that has to come first okay?”

He nodded. Of course it did, he knew that now.

She nodded back at him. Took a breath. “Okay.”

And she kissed him.

The memories of her mouth on his didn’t give the feeling justice. Soft and supple, her lips were intoxicating and slightly saltier than he remembered. One hand on his face and the other around his neck, she pulled him in close until every inch of them was pressed against one another. In turn, he wrapped an arm around her shoulders and down her back, pulling her tight to him, the other caressing her face, running through her hair. If he had his way, he’d never have to let go of her again.

And then she pulled back ever so slightly, barely a centimetre of space between them, sniffled, and whispered against his lips.

“I love you too.”

———————————————————————

Authors note:

Rachel and Abby on opposite sides of the world simultaneously trying to convince their clueless men to kiss them lol.

UK lore time: I don’t know how well known Love Actually is outside of the UK, but it’s one of the biggest Christmas films over here. Abby’s pretty well traveled and has made plenty of pitstops in England so I reckon she must’ve come across it either way. Oxford and Cambridge have a pretty famous rivalry, all in good fun of course, so Edward ‘prideful’ Townsend would not take someone getting which one he went to wrong.

Apologies in advanced because I’m definitely going to be falling behind over the next week, but they are still all going to get written!

[smokingasters]

A detail about the Peacebreakers in Providence. (translated + spoilers)

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Overseas Research Department Field Survey Team/Peace Breaker Official activity period: 2098/04~2113/04

A unit that obtains and manipulates information useful to Japan from other countries. Its main mission is to enter other countries, gather information, carry out sabotage operations, and provide weapons and operational support to anti-government organizations who support the Japanese government. Regarding anti-government support operations, operations were carried out through domestic third-party organizations

(Example 1). It has been confirmed that it was provided to and expanded to the government and rebel forces of the former Southeast Asian Union (commonly known as SEAUN) (see corresponding data 04231 for details). Through "monitoring"derived from [...] The members were selected from among the soldiers who belonged to the Special Forces of the National Defense Force, based on the Sibyl System's advanced decisions, and from among them, those who had a particularly strong sense of national pride were selected. Establishment: Wave After its establishment, the company did some original work. Main strategies and execution records. 2099_Conflict within the Union of Southeast Asia

2111_Rebellion in the Republic of South Asia 2112_Operation Footstamp 2113_Kona Island independence group reduced cropping Involved in etc. For details, see 67721 data

In June 2118, the decision was made to dismantle the unit, and in the same month, the whereabouts of the unit commander and training staff went missing.

In October 2118, independent activity was confirmed, and it was completely destroyed. To this day, it is said that its range has expanded to include Japan, Northern Russia, and the Russian Federation. Tonami is said to have been the general manager since the company's founding.

■ PB2098 type TUSIMA PS (Peacebreaker Armor) A powered suit that is standard equipment for the Peace Breaker Corps. It covers the head, upper body, and lower body, and is equipped with heavy armor and assist functions in each part. Increases the wearer's mobility by 1.25 times. Visibility is ensured by using cameras in front and behind the head to project images directly onto the eyes using internal scale projection sensors. It is also equipped with an infrared sensor and 3D prediction function MS2 as an option. It is possible to carry out operations without securing visibility even under conditions of poor visibility. Multi-type labeling function installed on the front of the waist

***

Sibyl itself is promoting conflicts to expand itself, and then denying asylum to the refugees which is why they're confined to Dejima/Kyushu. Sibyl lets MFA do the dirty work and it's obvious that Sibyl just turns a blind eye to this because it benefits their colonisation approach. I wonder what Kogami's thoughts will be when he comes to realise that his "democratisation" in Siam Reap (Psycho Pass Movie) was just a part of Sibyl's grand plan. Also Kona Island? Didn't Rutaganda and his mercenaries live on an island? The knowledge that Sibyl would let the world suffer, after having seen the true effects of it in his journey abroad and that probably every person he met or lost on his journey (including the people that Tenzing lost) was suffering due to Sibyl's duplicity. In Case 3 Novel, Frederica is investigating the Peacebreakers in Tibet-Himalaya and Garcia by extension. Honestly, Kogami Shinya seeing the horrors of war, trying to help people and then returning to become a cog in the System is a tragic enough ending for me. I guess this was the meaning of that painting in that room. (The Abyss, I assume?)

Anyhow, I'm on my fourth rewatch (first time with subs so thank god I can follow the dialogues), and Sibyl has a knack of grinding my gears (pun intended), I've come to despise the System as much as Kogami. I'll delve into a proper review later, for now just accept my ramblings. I have 10,000 thoughts on Akane too, who in this movie punched me right in the heart, honestly I don't know how Akane-chan is so strong. I admire her grit.

[republicsecurity]

Helmet Capabilities

The standard-issue helmet for the cadets in the Enforcer Academy is a multifunctional headgear designed to provide protection, communication, and situational awareness. The helmet is an integral component of the full-body armor system and offers the following capabilities:

Protection and Construction

Material: Constructed from a composite of high-strength polymers and lightweight alloys, the helmet offers excellent ballistic protection while remaining lightweight.

Ergonomics: The interior is padded with adjustable, high-density foam to ensure a secure and comfortable fit for extended wear.

Visor System

Retractable Visor: The helmet features a retractable, polycarbonate visor that can be deployed or retracted with a simple voice command or manual switch. The visor is impact-resistant and provides full facial protection.

Heads-Up Display (HUD): When the visor is deployed, it functions as a transparent display, overlaying critical information directly onto the user's field of vision. The HUD includes data such as ID overlays of other cadets, navigation aids, environmental readings, and communication messages.

Communication

Integrated Communications Suite: The helmet is equipped with a built-in communication system, allowing for helmet-to-helmet communication among cadets and instructors. This includes individual, group, and broadcast modes.

External Noise Control: The helmet can either fully block outside noise or allow selective sounds, such as authorized speech, to pass through. This feature ensures clear communication while maintaining situational awareness.

Sensory Input Management

Noise Dampening: Blocks out external noise when necessary, with adjustable settings to allow selective auditory input.

Visual Filters: Can dim, block or enhance visual input based on the cadet’s environment, reducing sensory overload.

AI Monitoring: The helmet’s integrated AI monitors conversations, filtering out unauthorized or harmful communications and providing real-time feedback.

Sensors and Monitoring

Environmental Sensors: The helmet includes sensors to monitor external conditions such as temperature, humidity, and air quality, providing real-time data to the wearer and the command center.

Biometric Monitoring: The helmet continuously monitors vital signs, including heart rate, respiration, and stress levels, transmitting this data to the central monitoring system.

Safety and Security

Neck Seal: The helmet features an airtight neck seal that integrates with the body armor, ensuring a complete protective barrier against hazardous environments.

Additional Features

Night Vision and Thermal Imaging: The helmet is equipped with night vision and thermal imaging capabilities, allowing for enhanced visibility in low-light or obscured conditions.

Custom Fit: The padding and internal structure can be adjusted to fit various head sizes and shapes, ensuring a custom fit for each cadet.

Usage and Maintenance

Battery Life: The helmet's power supply is integrated with the suit's main power system, providing continuous operation for up to five days without recharging.

Maintenance: Regular maintenance includes cleaning the visor, checking the seals, and ensuring the communication systems are functioning properly. Maintenance protocols are outlined in the standard operating procedure manual.

Remote Control and Safety Features

Instructor Control: Instructors can remotely control helmet functions, including visual and auditory inputs, to ensure cadet safety and compliance.

Emergency Lockdown: The helmet can immobilize the cadet’s head and control movements via the neural interface in critical situations.

Usage Parameters

Operational Duration: Designed for continuous use up to 7 days, with standard operational periods of 5 days.

Maintenance Cycle: Requires a maintenance check and recalibration after each operational cycle to ensure optimal performance.

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

New diagnostic tool will help LIGO hunt gravitational waves

Machine learning tool developed by UCR researchers will help answer fundamental questions about the universe.

Finding patterns and reducing noise in large, complex datasets generated by the gravitational wave-detecting LIGO facility just got easier, thanks to the work of scientists at the University of California, Riverside. 

The UCR researchers presented a paper at a recent IEEE big-data workshop, demonstrating a new, unsupervised machine learning approach to find new patterns in the auxiliary channel data of the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory, or LIGO. The technology is also potentially applicable to large scale particle accelerator experiments and large complex industrial systems.

LIGO is a facility that detects gravitational waves — transient disturbances in the fabric of spacetime itself, generated by the acceleration of massive bodies. It was the first to detect such waves from merging black holes, confirming a key part of Einstein’s Theory of Relativity. LIGO has two widely-separated 4-km-long interferometers — in Hanford, Washington, and Livingston, Louisiana — that work together to detect gravitational waves by employing high-power laser beams. The discoveries these detectors make offer a new way to observe the universe and address questions about the nature of black holes, cosmology, and the densest states of matter in the universe.

Each of the two LIGO detectors records thousands of data streams, or channels, which make up the output of environmental sensors located at the detector sites. 

“The machine learning approach we developed in close collaboration with LIGO commissioners and stakeholders identifies patterns in data entirely on its own,” said Jonathan Richardson, an assistant professor of physics and astronomy who leads the UCR LIGO group. “We find that it recovers the environmental ‘states’ known to the operators at the LIGO detector sites extremely well, with no human input at all. This opens the door to a powerful new experimental tool we can use to help localize noise couplings and directly guide future improvements to the detectors.”

Richardson explained that the LIGO detectors are extremely sensitive to any type of external disturbance. Ground motion and any type of vibrational motion — from the wind to ocean waves striking the coast of Greenland or the Pacific — can affect the sensitivity of the experiment and the data quality, resulting in “glitches” or periods of increased noise bursts, he said. 

“Monitoring the environmental conditions is continuously done at the sites,” he said. “LIGO has more than 100,000 auxiliary channels with seismometers and accelerometers sensing the environment where the interferometers are located. The tool we developed can identify different environmental states of interest, such as earthquakes, microseisms, and anthropogenic noise, across a number of carefully selected and curated sensing channels.”

Vagelis Papalexakis, an associate professor of computer science and engineering who holds the Ross Family Chair in Computer Science, presented the team’s paper, titled “Multivariate Time Series Clustering for Environmental State Characterization of Ground-Based Gravitational-Wave Detectors,” at the IEEE's 5th International Workshop on Big Data & AI Tools, Models, and Use Cases for Innovative Scientific Discovery that took place last month in Washington, D.C.

“The way our machine learning approach works is that we take a model tasked with identifying patterns in a dataset and we let the model find patterns on its own,” Papalexakis said. “The tool was able to identify the same patterns that very closely correspond to the physically meaningful environmental states that are already known to human operators and commissioners at the LIGO sites.”

Papalexakis added that the team had worked with the LIGO Scientific Collaboration to secure the release of a very large dataset that pertains to the analysis reported in the research paper. This data release allows the research community to not only validate the team’s results but also develop new algorithms that seek to identify patterns in the data.

“We have identified a fascinating link between external environmental noise and the presence of certain types of glitches that corrupt the quality of the data,” Papalexakis said. “This discovery has the potential to help eliminate or prevent the occurrence of such noise.”

The team organized and worked through all the LIGO channels for about a year. Richardson noted that the data release was a major undertaking. 

“Our team spearheaded this release on behalf of the whole LIGO Scientific Collaboration, which has about 3,200 members,” he said. “This is the first of these particular types of datasets and we think it’s going to have a large impact in the machine learning and the computer science community.”

Richardson explained that the tool the team developed can take information from signals from numerous heterogeneous sensors that are measuring different disturbances around the LIGO sites. The tool can distill the information into a single state, he said, that can then be used to search for time series associations of when noise problems occurred in the LIGO detectors and correlate them with the sites’ environmental states at those times.

“If you can identify the patterns, you can make physical changes to the detector — replace components, for example,” he said. “The hope is that our tool can shed light on physical noise coupling pathways that allow for actionable experimental changes to be made to the LIGO detectors. Our long-term goal is for this tool to be used to detect new associations and new forms of environmental states associated with unknown noise problems in the interferometers.”

Pooyan Goodarzi, a doctoral student working with Richardson and a coauthor on the paper, emphasized the importance of releasing the dataset publicly. 

“Typically, such data tend to be proprietary,” he said. “We managed, nonetheless, to release a large-scale dataset that we hope results in more interdisciplinary research in data science and machine learning.”

The team’s research was supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation awarded through a special program, Advancing Discovery with AI-Powered Tools, focused on applying artificial intelligence/machine learning to address problems in the physical sciences. 

[june-gdprototyping]

CNC development history and processing principles

CNC machine tools are also called Computerized Numerical Control (CNC for short). They are mechatronics products that use digital information to control machine tools. They record the relative position between the tool and the workpiece, the start and stop of the machine tool, the spindle speed change, the workpiece loosening and clamping, the tool selection, the start and stop of the cooling pump and other operations and sequence actions on the control medium with digital codes, and then send the digital information to the CNC device or computer, which will decode and calculate, issue instructions to control the machine tool servo system or other actuators, so that the machine tool can process the required workpiece.

‌1. The evolution of CNC technology: from mechanical gears to digital codes

The Beginning of Mechanical Control (late 19th century - 1940s)

The prototype of CNC technology can be traced back to the invention of mechanical automatic machine tools in the 19th century. In 1887, the cam-controlled lathe invented by American engineer Herman realized "programmed" processing for the first time by rotating cams to drive tool movement. Although this mechanical programming method is inefficient, it provides a key idea for subsequent CNC technology. During World War II, the surge in demand for military equipment accelerated the innovation of processing technology, but the processing capacity of traditional machine tools for complex parts had reached a bottleneck.

The electronic revolution (1950s-1970s)

After World War II, manufacturing industries mostly relied on manual operations. After workers understood the drawings, they manually operated machine tools to process parts. This way of producing products was costly, inefficient, and the quality was not guaranteed. In 1952, John Parsons' team at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) developed the world's first CNC milling machine, which input instructions through punched paper tape, marking the official birth of CNC technology. The core breakthrough of this stage was "digital signals replacing mechanical transmission" - servo motors replaced gears and connecting rods, and code instructions replaced manual adjustments. In the 1960s, the popularity of integrated circuits reduced the size and cost of CNC systems. Japanese companies such as Fanuc launched commercial CNC equipment, and the automotive and aviation industries took the lead in introducing CNC production lines. 

Integration of computer technology (1980s-2000s)

With the maturity of microprocessor and graphical interface technology, CNC entered the PC control era. In 1982, Siemens of Germany launched the first microprocessor-based CNC system Sinumerik 800, whose programming efficiency was 100 times higher than that of paper tape. The integration of CAD (computer-aided design) and CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) software allows engineers to directly convert 3D models into machining codes, and the machining accuracy of complex surfaces reaches the micron level. During this period, equipment such as five-axis linkage machining centers came into being, promoting the rapid development of mold manufacturing and medical device industries.

Intelligence and networking (21st century to present)

The Internet of Things and artificial intelligence technologies have given CNC machine tools new vitality. Modern CNC systems use sensors to monitor parameters such as cutting force and temperature in real time, and use machine learning to optimize processing paths. For example, the iSMART Factory solution of Japan's Mazak Company achieves intelligent scheduling of hundreds of machine tools through cloud collaboration. In 2023, the global CNC machine tool market size has exceeded US$80 billion, and China has become the largest manufacturing country with a production share of 31%.

2. CNC machining principles: How code drives steel

The essence of CNC technology is to convert the physical machining process into a control closed loop of digital signals. Its operation logic can be divided into three stages:

Geometric Modeling and Programming

After building a 3D model using CAD software such as UG and SolidWorks, CAM software “deconstructs” the model: automatically calculating parameters such as tool path, feed rate, spindle speed, and generating G code (such as G01 X100 Y200 F500 for linear interpolation to coordinates (100,200) and feed rate 500mm/min). Modern software can even simulate the material removal process and predict machining errors.

Numerical control system analysis and implementation

The "brain" of CNC machine tools - the numerical control system (such as Fanuc 30i, Siemens 840D) converts G codes into electrical pulse signals. Taking a three-axis milling machine as an example, the servo motors of the X/Y/Z axes receive pulse commands and convert rotary motion into linear displacement through ball screws, with a positioning accuracy of up to ±0.002mm. The closed-loop control system uses a grating ruler to feedback position errors in real time, forming a dynamic correction mechanism.

Multi-physics collaborative control

During the machining process, the machine tool needs to coordinate multiple parameters synchronously: the spindle motor drives the tool to rotate at a high speed of 20,000 rpm, the cooling system sprays atomized cutting fluid to reduce the temperature, and the tool changing robot completes the tool change within 0.5 seconds. For example, when machining titanium alloy blades, the system needs to dynamically adjust the cutting depth according to the hardness of the material to avoid tool chipping.

‌3. The future of CNC technology: cross-dimensional breakthroughs and industrial transformation

Currently, CNC technology is facing three major trends:

‌Combined‌: Turning and milling machine tools can complete turning, milling, grinding and other processes on one device, reducing clamping time by 90%;

Additive-subtractive integration: Germany's DMG MORI's LASERTEC series machine tools combine 3D printing and CNC finishing to directly manufacture aerospace engine combustion chambers;

‌Digital Twin‌: By using a virtual machine tool to simulate the actual machining process, China's Shenyang Machine Tool's i5 system has increased debugging efficiency by 70%.

From the meshing of mechanical gears to the flow of digital signals, CNC technology has rewritten the underlying logic of the manufacturing industry in 70 years. It is not only an upgrade of machine tools, but also a leap in the ability of humans to transform abstract thinking into physical entities. In the new track of intelligent manufacturing, CNC technology will continue to break through the limits of materials, precision and efficiency, and write a new chapter for industrial civilization.

[alternis]

Figment au snippet, aka 'the scene where Figment and Aestel end up fused together'

Tim's pulse roared in his ears so loud it almost drowned out the wail of the alarm system. The monitors displayed the spread of contamination though error messages as systems failed and sensors fell offline, each room flickering from green to red in a tightening net as the infection travelled from the outer perimeter of Station Tau towards the central command room. 

Towards him.

Instinctively he reached for the Aestel, stopping himself as soon as he registered his hand touching the cool metal. His time limit had gotten longer, sure, but even if he stretched it to twenty minutes—even if he stretched it to an hour, to a day—there wasn’t enough time for anybody to reach him, out here in the dead of space. Not with the biomechanical virus still an existential threat, not when… 

They didn’t even know he was here. He wasn’t supposed to be here. He’d stuck his nose where it didn’t belong, like an idiot, and some horrible accident of malfunctioning technology had sent him here. Now he was trapped and alone and all of his worst nightmares had come to life.

The corridor outside the command room flickered, green to red. He was alone, and out of options, and nobody was coming to save him. The Aestel was cold against the skin of his palm. He was out of options, out of choices, and as he activated the amulet he couldn’t tell if the relief that sunk into his gut came from him or from it.

The world was cold around him, and utterly silent. The virus spread across the floor and the walls and the ceiling, warping and distorting the metal. The computer screen turned an angry, weeping red. The alarm rose in agony and then, abruptly, fell silent. Figment stepped through the door and into the corridor, following his memory of the station map, trying to ignore how the walls glistened and flexed like exposed muscle.

He was such an idiot. He’d quit, he’d walked away, he was working as ‘Tim Drake, intern’ and ignoring the amulet hung around his neck, but the moment he realised he could help—that he was the only person who’d figured out Station Tau was next, and he didn’t even have time to warn anybody because every second he spent convincing them was a second they couldn’t afford to lose—he’d used the Aestel’s powers to break into the comms room and then set off the emergency mass evacuation protocol, just as a contaminated meteor hit the base shields. Of course if he’d known he was going to end up hit by quantum displacement and take their place on the station he likely wouldn’t have set the station transporters to remote-destruct after evacuating the crew, but hindsight was, well. Probably going to comprise the rest of his very short life.

It was lucky he didn’t need to breathe when he was phased because he was pretty sure that he’d be hyperventilating, otherwise. He stepped through another door and out into the centre of the viewing deck. A hemisphere of glass arced out from the side of the station like an open eye, seemingly untouched by the virus, revealing the planet below and the stars beyond. It was beautiful—if you discounted the transparent floor and the endless starlit void underneath him. He stepped gingerly forward, trying not to look down, until the curved glass window was right in front of him. It was a meaningless barrier, now, with death on one side and death on the other.

Maybe if he held out long enough Superman would come, or a Green Lantern, or somebody at the lab would figure out what happened and put together a rescue for him. But the life support systems were all infected, and even if the virus hadn’t visibly corrupted the glass he couldn’t be sure it wasn’t infected too, and—he could feel the Aestel growing warmer in his hand. His legs trembled.

There was nowhere to sit so he knelt instead. He’d never figured out why he seemed able to select what felt tangible and what didn’t, when he was phased, why sometimes the floor was solid enough to sit on and sometimes he could drop through it like it wasn’t there. It seemed like he never would. He didn’t even leave a note. Didn’t make his bed this morning, or finish washing the dishes from last night, or—

One for a hundred and nineteen wasn’t such a bad trade, was it? He’d probably make it again, even if he knew what was going to happen. 

He just always thought he'd have more time.

The Aestel burned against his skin. He pressed his clenched fist against his chest.

“Please,” he whispered soundlessly, no breath in his lungs and no air to vibrate, “please.”

It burned and it burned and he waited for the override, for the Aestel to turn cold again as the world drew him back into it. 

There was a distant note vibrating in his chest, like an echo, all of his desperation and fear turned back on him. A plea for him to live. Please.

The Aestel grew hotter and hotter, hotter than heat, hotter than fire, until all the force of a newborn star was blazing in his palm.

The note in his chest grew stronger, louder, until his entire body felt like a tuning fork eternally ringing with that same frequency, that sound that wasn’t a sound—

He held the Aestel in his hand and it held him outside of space, outside of death, an unfurled map, time moving in eddying currents around him—

Part of him was aware of how 

Light and darkness slid over the surface of the planet below, chasing each other, 

Planets twisting around their star, dancing—

Another part was aware of things moving in the void, sailors approaching a shipwreck, 

Metal returning to metal as sickness was purged—

“—ent!”

“F—ment!”

“—ound hi—ot res—”

“—an yo—hear me?”

There was a vibration. A sound. A voice. A fragment of a fragment of eternity, a single lens of an infinitely compound eye, bottled lighting. 

“Tim—”

Safety. It was safe. The star inside him cooled as his body drew back into the shape of itself, as space and time settled around him like his father’s coat thrown over his shoulders.

He caught a glimpse of Impulse’s worried face, just for a moment as his eyes slid shut, then knew no more.

[cretivemachinery]

7 Insider Secrets: How Are Cement Bricks & Blocks Manufactured for Superior Construction?

How are cement bricks and blocks manufactured?

Cement bricks and blocks form the backbone of modern construction, and understanding their manufacturing process can provide invaluable insights for contractors, engineers, and investors alike. In today’s competitive market, knowing what goes behind creating these essential building components not only improves decision-making but also instills confidence in the durability and quality of construction materials. In this article, we uncover the secrets behind the manufacturing process, address frequently asked questions, and highlight key statistics that underline the importance of precision in production.

Introduction

The construction industry relies heavily on the consistent quality of building materials. Cement bricks and blocks, known for their strength and longevity, are manufactured through a systematic, multi-step process that transforms raw materials into essential components for modern infrastructure. This blog post will walk you through the manufacturing process, answer common queries, and reveal industry insights that every professional and enthusiast should know. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or new to the industry, these insider secrets will elevate your understanding and guide your next project.

The Manufacturing Process Uncovered

1. Raw Materials: The Foundation of Quality

The journey begins with sourcing high-quality raw materials. The primary ingredients include cement, aggregates (like sand and gravel), water, and sometimes additives to enhance performance. Each component plays a crucial role:

Cement: Provides binding strength.

Aggregates: Offer structural stability.

Water: Initiates the hydration process.

Additives: Enhance durability and workability.

Ensuring the correct proportions is essential. For example, maintaining a water-to-cement ratio between 0.4 and 0.6 is critical for achieving optimal strength and durability. Industry statistics indicate that up to 80% of the final product’s quality is determined during this initial stage.

2. Mixing: Precision in Every Batch

Once raw materials are selected, the next step is mixing. Modern facilities employ high-speed mixers that blend the materials to a uniform consistency. This stage is crucial because even a minor imbalance in the mix can result in compromised strength or an inconsistent texture.

Mixing involves:

Batching: Precise measurement of each component.

Blending: Combining materials uniformly to ensure consistent distribution.

Monitoring: Continuous quality checks to ensure the mix adheres to industry standards.

Transitioning to the next phase, advanced monitoring systems now utilize sensors and automation to fine-tune the process, reducing human error and enhancing quality control.

3. Molding and Shaping: Crafting the Perfect Form

After mixing, the homogeneous material is transferred to molds to create bricks or blocks. The manufacturing process here can vary:

Cement Bricks: Typically, the mixture is compressed in a mold using a hydraulic press. The pressure applied can reach up to 10,000 psi, ensuring that the bricks are dense and robust.

Cement Blocks: Larger in size, these blocks are often cast using automated machines. The molds are designed to produce uniform shapes, which is critical for ensuring ease of installation and structural consistency.

Storytelling element: Imagine the precision of an orchestra playing in perfect harmony; every press and cast is a note contributing to the grand symphony of construction excellence.

4. Curing: Transforming Fresh Casts into Durable Structures

Curing is perhaps the most critical phase in the manufacturing process. Once molded, the bricks or blocks must cure—essentially, they undergo a controlled hardening process. This is achieved through:

Moisture Retention: Maintaining adequate moisture levels to allow the chemical reactions in cement to complete.

Temperature Control: Ensuring that environmental conditions support optimal hydration.

Time: Curing can take anywhere from 7 to 28 days depending on the product specifications and environmental conditions.

Statistics show that proper curing can improve the strength of cement bricks and blocks by up to 50% compared to those that are not cured under controlled conditions.

5. Quality Assurance: The Final Seal of Approval

Before cement bricks and blocks reach the market, they undergo rigorous quality assurance tests. These tests include:

Compression Strength Tests: Verifying that each unit can withstand heavy loads.

Dimensional Checks: Ensuring uniformity in size and shape.

Surface Inspections: Checking for any defects that could impact the performance or aesthetics of the final product.

Quality assurance protocols are not just about meeting regulatory standards—they provide peace of mind to builders and investors, ensuring that every brick or block contributes to a safe and sustainable construction.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are cement bricks different from cement blocks?

Cement bricks are usually smaller and are often used for walls and smaller constructions, whereas cement blocks are larger, offering enhanced structural stability for load-bearing walls. Their manufacturing process is similar, but the molding and curing processes may differ slightly to accommodate size differences.

What are the key factors that affect the quality of cement bricks and blocks?

The quality of these products largely depends on the quality of raw materials, the precision of the mixing process, the effectiveness of the molding and pressing systems, and the rigor of the curing and quality assurance processes. Maintaining the optimal water-to-cement ratio and ensuring a controlled curing environment are paramount.

How long does it take to manufacture cement bricks and blocks?

The manufacturing process itself is relatively quick, with mixing and molding taking just a few hours. However, the curing phase can take anywhere from 7 to 28 days, which is essential to achieve the desired strength and durability.

Can the manufacturing process be automated?

Yes, automation plays a significant role in modern production facilities. Automated mixers, robotic molding systems, and digital monitoring for curing are now common, increasing both efficiency and product consistency.

What are the environmental impacts of manufacturing cement bricks and blocks?

While the production process does involve energy consumption and carbon emissions, many manufacturers are adopting eco-friendly practices. Innovations like using recycled materials, optimizing energy usage, and exploring alternative fuels are gradually reducing the environmental footprint.

[aquanalytics]

Understanding Smart Water Metering: A Comprehensive Guide

Smart water metering is revolutionizing how individuals, businesses, and municipalities manage water usage. With its advanced technology, it provides real-time data, improves efficiency, and promotes sustainable water consumption practices. This blog delves into the essentials of smart water metering, covering critical topics, challenges, step-by-step implementation, a real-life case study, and a concluding overview.

What is Smart Water Metering?

Smart water metering refers to the use of advanced metering systems that monitor water consumption in real-time and transmit data to consumers and service providers. Unlike traditional water meters, smart meters are equipped with wireless communication technologies, offering a more interactive and efficient water management system.

Unique Topics Everyone Should Know About Smart Water Metering

1. How Smart Water Meters Work

Smart water meters rely on sensors and communication networks to collect and transmit data. These meters often use IoT (Internet of Things) technology, connecting them to centralized data systems for seamless operation.

Key Features:

Real-time monitoring

Leak detection

Usage analytics

2. Benefits of Smart Water Metering

Smart water metering offers multiple advantages:

Enhanced Accuracy: Reduces billing errors.

Water Conservation: Identifies wasteful practices.

Convenience: Provides users with detailed consumption reports.

Cost Savings: Promotes efficient water use, lowering bills.

3. Applications of Smart Water Meters

Smart water meters are used across various sectors:

Residential Areas: Encouraging homeowners to adopt water-saving habits.

Commercial Buildings: Monitoring high water usage.

Municipal Systems: Managing city-wide water distribution.

Challenges in Smart Water Metering

While smart water metering presents many benefits, it also has challenges:

1. High Initial Investment

The cost of installing smart meters can be prohibitive, especially for large-scale projects.

2. Data Security Concerns

Since smart meters rely on digital communication, they are susceptible to cyber threats.

3. Infrastructure Requirements

Implementing smart water meters requires robust communication networks and integration with existing systems.

4. Resistance to Change

Some users may resist transitioning from traditional meters due to unfamiliarity or skepticism.

Step-by-Step Guide to Implementing Smart Water Metering

Step 1: Assess Requirements

Evaluate the specific needs of the property or area. Consider water usage patterns and infrastructure compatibility.

Step 2: Choose the Right Technology

Select smart water meters that align with your objectives, such as those offering real-time analytics or advanced leak detection.

Step 3: Plan the Deployment

Create a comprehensive plan outlining the installation process, data management protocols, and training requirements.

Step 4: Install and Integrate

Install the smart water meters and integrate them with your existing water management systems.

Step 5: Monitor and Optimize

Regularly monitor the performance of the smart meters and optimize their settings to maximize efficiency.

Case Study: Smart Water Metering in Urban Communities

Background

A mid-sized city faced challenges with water waste and inaccurate billing due to outdated water meters. The local government decided to implement smart water metering across residential and commercial zones.

Implementation

Conducted a city-wide assessment to identify high-priority areas.

Chose smart meters with real-time data transmission and leak detection capabilities.

Trained staff and launched an awareness campaign to educate residents.

Results

Reduction in Water Waste: Decreased water loss by 25% within the first year.

Improved Billing Accuracy: Resolved 90% of previous billing disputes.

Enhanced User Engagement: Residents actively monitored and reduced their water usage.

Conclusion

Smart water metering represents a significant step toward efficient and sustainable water management. By providing real-time insights, reducing waste, and promoting conservation, it benefits individuals, businesses, and municipalities alike. Despite initial challenges such as cost and infrastructure needs, the long-term advantages outweigh the hurdles. Adopting smart water metering not only ensures better resource management but also fosters a culture of accountability and sustainability.

Whether you are a homeowner looking to monitor your water usage or a city planner aiming to optimize municipal water distribution, smart water metering is the future of water management. Start exploring your options today to make a difference for tomorrow.

By implementing the concepts discussed, leveraging the step-by-step guide, and learning from successful case studies, you can effectively embrace the revolution of smart water metering. Together, we can work towards a smarter and more sustainable future.

[hasbr0mniverse]

Transformers Battlefront 1984 - Soundwave has great physical strength and intelligence. He is a skilled and highly professional soldier and lieutenant. Soundwave’s intemal scanners can detect even the lowest level energy transmissions for communications purposes, as well as sounds that are nearly inaudible to most audio sensors. His advanced sensor suite allows him to monitor electrical impulses, giving. him a limited level of telepathy at close range. He can also act as a communications center for the Deceptions, keeping all units within 1,000 miles in contact. In robot mode, he wields a concussion gun and a shoulder-mounted, multi-chambered mini rocket launcher. In both modes, his chest cavity can store the compressed forms of the assorted Decepticon cassettes. Subject can then select and launch any of the stored cassettes.

[teine-mallaichte]

Instruction and Training for Handlers: Managing Assets with Implants

CW: dehumanisation, whump, living weapon, non-con drugging.

Dear Handler,

Congratulations. Your asset, [insert designation number], has been selected to be fitted with an implant. This is a significant milestone, indicating that the asset has reached a high enough rank and level of operational success to warrant the enhancement. Implants are cutting-edge devices embedded under the skin, typically near the shoulder blade, designed to monitor, control, and optimise the asset’s performance and compliance. These devices are integral to ensuring peak operational efficiency, extending mission endurance, and mitigating risks posed by physical or psychological limitations.

Understanding the Implant System

The implant uses real-time data to administer precise doses of performance-enhancing, pain-relieving, and compliance-inducing drugs. This system enables the asset to operate beyond normal human limits, ensuring mission success under the most demanding conditions. Additionally, the implant includes several failsafe measures to maintain control over the asset in high-stress or defection scenarios.

The implant is a cutting-edge biofeedback device designed for subdermal placement, typically near the shoulder blade. It represents the pinnacle of asset management technology, combining advanced monitoring, drug administration, and failsafe mechanisms in a compact, durable unit.

Design and Features

Sleek, Durable Structure The implant is encased in a lightweight, metallic alloy resistant to damage from environmental factors, including extreme temperatures, moisture, and impact. Its design ensures long-term reliability in harsh operational conditions.

Integrated Monitoring Systems The implant houses a network of sensors capable of real-time monitoring of vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, brain activity, muscle tension, and more. Data is continuously transmitted to the facility’s control systems or the handler’s interface for remote observation.

Automated Drug Delivery Built-in reservoirs store a range of drugs, including stimulants, painkillers, regenerative treatments, and compliance agents—these reservoirs need regular monitoring and refilling. Micro-needles extend from the implant to administer precise doses directly into the bloodstream based on the asset’s physiological needs.

Visual Indicators The implant features subtle glowing elements (e.g., blue or green light) to indicate active monitoring or drug administration. These indicators can assist handlers in quickly assessing the implant's status during close interactions.

Failsafe Mechanisms The implant includes emergency protocols such as sedative bursts for asset incapacitation or a lethal dose for termination. These are accessible remotely by the handler or facility in critical situations.

Key Features

Vital Monitoring: Tracks critical metrics such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and brain activity.

Automated Drug Delivery: Administers stimulants, painkillers, and regenerative treatments based on the asset’s needs.

Emotional and Cognitive Regulation: Suppresses disobedience, reduces stress, or enhances focus.

Failsafes: Includes sedative bursts for asset incapacitation and lethal doses as a last resort.

Handler Responsibilities

As a handler, your primary responsibility is to utilize the implant's capabilities to maximize the asset’s performance while ensuring they remain compliant and functional. This involves:

1. Remote Monitoring and Control:

Although the implant is capable of functioning independently, administering doses based on biofeedback, you may also use the implant’s interface to monitor your asset’s condition and adjust their drug dosages as needed.

If your asset shows signs of fatigue, disobedience, or emotional instability, you are authorized to activate specific drug protocols.

2. Reward and Punishment Mechanisms:

The implant includes a reservoir of Euphoria-X, which can be used to reward compliance and exceptional performance.

Conversely, if the asset demonstrates disobedience or failure, sedative bursts or withdrawal-inducing drugs may be administered as corrective measures.

3. Communication and Conditioning:

Regularly reinforce the asset’s conditioning by pairing implant activations (e.g., reward or punishment) with verbal commands.

This strengthens their association between behavior and consequences, ensuring long-term compliance.

4. Failsafe Activation:

In extreme situations where the asset becomes a threat to themselves, their team, or the mission, you are authorized to initiate failsafe protocols. This includes sedative bursts to incapacitate or a lethal dose to terminate.

Key Reminders

Maintain the Illusion of Trust: Most assets believe the implant is a “reward” for their success. Reinforce this perception to reduce resentment and ensure compliance.

Minimize Dependency on Failsafes: Overusing sedatives or punitive measures can lead to long-term degradation of the asset’s mental stability. Reserve these for situations of critical disobedience.

Monitor for Overuse: Excessive reliance on performance enhancers or painkillers can result in addiction, burnout, and reduced efficiency. Ensure the asset is rotated out of high-stress missions when possible.

Protect Facility Interests: If an asset demonstrates patterns of instability or questions facility authority, inform your superior immediately. Assets with implants are highly valuable and highly dangerous.

By following these guidelines, you will ensure that your asset remains an efficient and compliant tool in service of the facility’s objectives.

[mariacallous]

Among the many victims of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine are some of the most important ecosystems in Eastern Europe: Ukraine’s forests and protected areas.

The full extent of the damage, however, is unknown. That’s why we are launching a new tool that will help open source researchers track destruction from afar.

In September 2022, Ukrainian environmental researchers visited national parks — which are more resilient to climate change than artificial plantings and support crucial biodiversity—to assess damage to forests and wildlife. Initial findings revealed broken trees, damaged root systems due to trench digging and unexploded munitions scattered across protected lands.

“Forests have suffered a lot on the frontline… huge areas of forests are being mined”, Yehor Hrynyk, an environmental campaigner at the Ukrainian Nature Conservation Group, told Bellingcat. But large parts of Ukraine’s vast national parks, mountainous regions and woodlands are inaccessible for on-the-ground environmental monitoring.

That’s where open source techniques come in.

The OSINT Forest Area Tracker

We’ve launched the “OSINT Forest Area Tracker”, hosted on Google Earth Engine. Our tool compares data collected by Sentinel-2, a satellite which detects changes in infrared wavelengths and can be used to study the health of forests. 

The tool reveals the scale and intensity of anomalous changes on land. This narrows down search areas for researchers working on environmental damage in Ukraine. 

Importantly, the map does not attribute the cause of these changes, meaning that it is crucial to find corroborating evidence from other sources before concluding that they were the result of military activity. 

The tool uses the Normalised Burn Ratio (NBR) index to estimate burn severity.

Researchers can also use the tool to select custom date ranges for geographic locations of interest. 

As Ukraine’s official database of protected areas includes over 7,500 sites, we chose not to study them all — among their number are botanical gardens, city parks and archaeological sites. That list also includes many areas in the far west of the country which have not seen intense conflict. 

Therefore, we selected 16 areas which featured the highest number of detected fires over the first year of the war, based on Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data. MODIS is a sensor which allows satellites to detect thermal anomalies, including fires in active war zones (Along with VIIRS, MODIS data can be accessed on the FIRMS system; you can read more about its use to open source researchers here). We also added Svyati Hory National Park because of its proximity to fighting. The tool includes a drop down list preset areas from across the country, including those near military activity. These preset areas are referred to by their acronyms, for example SHNP for Svyati Hory National Park. A full list of these acronyms can be found on the tool’s GitHub page. If researchers are interested in areas of the country not included in the dropdown menu, the coordinates can be entered manually.

While the new tool focuses on Ukraine by default, the methods it employs could be used to analyse areas elsewhere in the world.

...

Future Development

In the case of Svyati Hory, the tool identified damage to a protected area which deserved further investigation. In the case of the Kinburn Spit, it allowed us to further verify existing open source claims about an attack which had caused damage to a forest – also enriching our knowledge about the extent of the damage, which was less easily visible on real colour satellite imagery. However, both cases demonstrate the importance of corroborating the tool’s findings with other sources before drawing any conclusions about the causes of such damage. The author will continue refining and improving this tool in order to better understand the scale of damage to Ukraine’s many protected areas. Feedback or suggestions for improvements are welcomed. For further technical details on this tool and updates following the publication of this article, please read the description on the author’s GitHub page.