#or traffic lights. or speed limit reductions.
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frasermints · 11 months ago
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not to be a nimby wrt urbanization on main but what rural america needs is adequate road conditions (re: filled potholes) and bridge repair and stable communication lines and power grids. not 500 ft long bike lanes on county roads that no one will use because there's at least 6 feet of snow in the area 6 months out of the year.
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andmaybegayer · 2 years ago
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Someday soon I'll be getting rid of Flint, my 2012 Chevrolet Spark, because I'm moving. The Spark is an oft-maligned car as being both too cheap and not cheap enough, low on power and scrawny, but I really love mine. I'm glad other people seem to recognise that too. There's a couple other articles written by more sensible and sober-minded car reviewers who recognise that for a lot of people a sub-$10k car that handles decently and gets around without burning too much fuel is all many people want.
It's a fun car to drive, it gets skittish at just the right speeds that you can feel yourself approaching the control limits long before you actually break loose, it's got enough power to get out of its own way and even with both me and my brother's bad habit of enjoying hard acceleration at every traffic light, it gets great mileage.
You can get better economy than this but it requires 90's-style body weight reduction, a '93 Corolla or Tercel can just beat this out and it'll be more powerful, but good luck keeping the air conditioning running in a '93 Corolla. I drove one for a while and that shit never worked for more than a few months after a repair.
I do not treat this drivetrain gently, I drove 45km each way to work at my first job on the highway which meant having this tiny 1.2 liter inline four scream at me for like 25 minutes straight. Never had a single leaky gasket or damaged motor mount the whole time.
It's big enough to pile in four people and several bags of equipment without actually being very large on the outside at all, and the tiny Daewoo engine can move all that weight astonishingly well, despite being a car that you can feel change in handling characteristics before and after you fill up the tank.
It's also weirdly good at keeping its value? We got this as an almost new demo at like R100k, and a decade later you can sell it... for R100k. Inflation has obviously eaten the difference, but hey, most cars do way worse than that.
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megalimochicago · 3 hours ago
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How Limo Services Ensure a Safe Ride?
Limo services prioritize passenger safety just as much as comfort and luxury. Here are some of the key ways they ensure a safe ride:
1. Experienced and Qualified Drivers
Trained Drivers: Limo drivers are highly trained to ensure safe driving practices and provide excellent customer service.
Background Checks: Drivers undergo thorough background checks to ensure they have clean driving records and no criminal history.
Proper Licenses: Limo drivers have commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) and the required certifications to operate large vehicles safely.
2. Regular Vehicle Maintenance
Routine Inspections: Limousines are regularly inspected to check that everything is in good working order, including brakes, tires, and lights.
Pre-Ride Checks: Before every trip, the driver inspects the limo to ensure it’s safe and ready to go.
Well-Maintained Fleets: Reputable companies keep their vehicles in top condition, replacing old cars when necessary.
3. Safe Driving Practices
Following Traffic Laws: Limo drivers stick to speed limits and traffic laws to ensure safety.
Defensive Driving: Drivers are trained to anticipate potential hazards on the road and avoid accidents.
Adapting to Weather: In bad weather, limo drivers adjust their driving to keep everyone safe.
4. Vehicle Safety Features
Seatbelts for Everyone: Limousines are equipped with seatbelts for all passengers.
Airbags & Technology: Modern limos have airbags and advanced safety features, like anti-lock brakes, to protect passengers in case of an accident.
Emergency Equipment: Limos often carry fire extinguishers and first aid kits.
5. Insurance and Liability
Comprehensive Insurance: Limo services have insurance to cover passengers and any damage to the vehicle.
State Regulations: Limo companies follow state laws requiring insurance to protect passengers in case of an incident.
6. Emergency Preparedness
Driver Emergency Training: Limo drivers are trained in emergency procedures, including first aid and CPR.
Emergency Contacts: Passengers can easily reach customer service in case of an emergency.
Communication Systems: Many limos are equipped with systems that allow drivers to contact help if needed.
7. Passenger Safety Guidelines
Respecting the Driver: Passengers are expected to follow safety rules, such as not distracting the driver or engaging in risky behavior.
Security Checks: Some companies may screen passengers for safety, especially for high-profile events.
8. 24/7 Support and Tracking
Real-Time Vehicle Tracking: Some limo services allow real-time tracking of vehicles to monitor the trip.
Round-the-Clock Support: If there are issues during the ride, customers can contact support for assistance anytime.
9. Comfort and Risk Reduction
Spacious and Comfortable Interiors: Comfortable seating helps keep passengers relaxed and less likely to be distracted.
Alcohol Policies: Limo services often set limits on alcohol consumption to avoid unsafe situations.
Limo services focus on providing a safe, secure, and luxurious experience. With trained drivers, well-maintained vehicles, regular safety checks, and insurance, you can trust that your ride will be both comfortable and safe. Whether it's for a wedding, business event, or night out, safety is always a priority.
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photonplayus · 21 days ago
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Enhancing Traffic Safety with the iCop R1800M Radar Speed Sign
IntroductionThe iCop R1800M Radar Speed Sign is a state-of-the-art solution for traffic management, designed to promote safer roads by encouraging responsible driving behavior. Featuring a high-visibility LED display, precise radar detection, and customizable settings, the iCop R1800M delivers real-time speed feedback that alerts drivers when they’re going over the limit. Ideal for school zones, construction areas, and residential neighborhoods, this radar speed sign helps reduce speeding and prevent accidents. Its versatility, energy-efficient operation, and robust construction make it a valuable tool for communities, law enforcement, and transportation authorities aiming to improve road safety.
Key Features of the iCop R1800M Radar Speed Sign
High-Accuracy Radar DetectionThe iCop R1800M is equipped with advanced radar technology that accurately detects the speed of approaching vehicles. This real-time detection capability provides immediate feedback, allowing drivers to adjust their speed as they approach high-risk areas. By offering precise speed measurements, the R1800M helps ensure that drivers are constantly aware of their speed, reinforcing safe driving habits.
Bright, Customizable LED DisplayThe R1800M’s LED display is designed for optimal visibility, with high-intensity lighting that is easily readable in both bright daylight and nighttime conditions. This bright display makes it easy for drivers to notice and read their current speed, and the sign can be configured to display additional alerts, such as “SLOW DOWN,” if drivers exceed a set speed threshold. The adjustable display settings allow communities to tailor the R1800M to their specific needs and ensure that it provides clear, impactful feedback.
Solar Power and Energy EfficiencyOne of the standout features of the iCop R1800M is its option for solar-powered operation. This energy-efficient alternative reduces electricity usage and provides an eco-friendly solution for traffic management, especially in remote or off-grid locations. The solar power option also minimizes maintenance costs, making the R1800M a low-maintenance yet highly effective tool for long-term installations.
Durable, Weather-Resistant DesignBuilt for durability, the iCop R1800M can withstand various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Its weather-resistant construction protects the sign’s internal components from damage, ensuring consistent performance year-round. This robust build makes the R1800M a reliable choice for communities that require a long-lasting solution to traffic safety.
Customizable Speed Thresholds and AlertsThe iCop R1800M’s customizable settings allow traffic authorities to set specific speed limits and alerts based on the area’s unique requirements. When a driver exceeds the designated speed limit, the sign can be programmed to flash or display a warning message, encouraging drivers to slow down. This feature is particularly effective in areas where even slight reductions in speed can significantly improve safety, such as in school zones or near pedestrian crossings.
Benefits of the iCop R1800M Radar Speed Sign
Increased Driver Awareness and ResponsibilityThe iCop R1800M provides instant feedback on drivers’ speed, helping them remain aware of their speed as they enter high-risk zones. This real-time feedback encourages drivers to be more mindful and responsible, making it less likely they will unintentionally exceed speed limits.
Effective Speed Reduction and Accident PreventionRadar speed signs like the iCop R1800M have been proven to reduce speeding and lower accident rates. By alerting drivers to their speed and reminding them to slow down, the R1800M reduces the likelihood of collisions, especially in areas with high pedestrian activity. Its consistent presence acts as a deterrent, reminding drivers to approach these areas with caution.
Cost-Effective Solution for Traffic CalmingCompared to other traffic-calming solutions like speed bumps or automated cameras, the iCop R1800M is a cost-effective, non-invasive alternative that is easy to install and requires minimal maintenance. Its energy-efficient operation and solar power option further reduce operational costs, making it a budget-friendly choice for municipalities and communities focused on long-term traffic management.
Valuable Data Collection for Traffic AnalysisFor communities interested in analyzing traffic trends, the iCop R1800M offers optional data-logging capabilities. This feature allows the collection of data on vehicle speeds, traffic volume, and peak times, which can be invaluable for traffic authorities seeking insights into local traffic behavior. This data can help inform decisions on where to place additional traffic-calming measures or adjust speed limits to enhance road safety.
Applications of the iCop R1800M Radar Speed Sign
School Zones: The iCop R1800M is particularly effective in school zones, where reduced speeds are essential for protecting children and pedestrians. Its high-visibility display and instant feedback encourage drivers to slow down, making school areas safer.
Residential Neighborhoods: Speeding is a common concern in residential areas, where pedestrians and families are at risk. The R1800M’s clear, immediate feedback helps reduce speeding, creating a safer environment for residents.
Construction Zones: In work zones, maintaining safe speeds is crucial to protect workers and equipment. The iCop R1800M reminds drivers to slow down in these areas, reducing the risk of accidents.
Busy Intersections and High-Traffic Areas: The iCop R1800M is ideal for intersections and other areas with high vehicle or pedestrian traffic, helping maintain safe speeds where speeding is a common problem.
ConclusionThe iCop R1800M Radar Speed Sign is a powerful, adaptable solution for enhancing road safety and promoting responsible driving behavior. Its advanced radar technology, bright LED display, and customizable alerts provide real-time feedback to drivers, effectively reducing speeding in high-risk zones. With solar power options and a weather-resistant design, the R1800M is an energy-efficient, low-maintenance solution suitable for various traffic management needs. For communities and municipalities committed to creating safer roads, the iCop R1800M is a valuable tool that not only prevents accidents but also provides essential data to help inform future traffic planning and safety initiatives.
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cynthialily · 1 month ago
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Can a Reckless Driving Lawyer Help Get Your Charge Reduced to Improper Driving?
Introduction:
Reckless driving is a serious traffic offense in many states, often carrying harsh penalties such as fines, points on your driving record, license suspension, increased insurance rates, and even jail time. In states like Virginia, reckless driving is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor, placing it in the same category as criminal offenses. However, there are situations where an experienced reckless driving lawyer may be able to get the charge reduced to improper driving, which is a much less severe offense.
Improper driving is typically considered a traffic infraction rather than a misdemeanor and carries lighter penalties. It represents a significant reduction in the seriousness of the charge, often leading to lower fines, fewer or no points on your driving record, and the avoidance of a criminal conviction. The role of a reckless driving lawyer is crucial in navigating the legal process and working with the prosecutor or court to secure this reduction. Here’s a detailed explanation of how a reckless driving lawyer can help get your charge reduced to improper driving.
1. Understanding the Difference Between Reckless Driving and Improper Driving
Before diving into how a lawyer can help, it's essential to understand the distinction between reckless driving and improper driving. Dinwiddie reckless driving lawyer involves operating a vehicle in a manner that demonstrates a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of others. This can include speeding excessively (20 miles per hour or more over the limit), driving aggressively, or engaging in dangerous behaviors such as racing or passing a school bus.
Improper driving, on the other hand, is a much less serious offense. It is often used to describe situations where a driver made an error in judgment or committed a minor traffic violation that doesn’t rise to the level of reckless driving. In Virginia, improper driving is treated as a traffic infraction rather than a criminal offense, which means it typically results in a fine and fewer demerit points on your driving record.
2. Evaluating the Strength of the Case
One of the first things a reckless driving lawyer will do is evaluate the strength of the prosecution’s case. This involves reviewing the evidence against you, including the police report, witness statements, and any available video footage or speed readings. If the evidence supporting the reckless driving charge is weak or inconclusive, the lawyer can use this as a foundation for requesting a reduction in the charge.
For example, if the reckless driving charge is based on speed, the lawyer may challenge the accuracy of the speed-measuring device, such as a radar gun. If the equipment was not properly calibrated or maintained, the speed reading may be unreliable. Similarly, the lawyer can look into whether the arresting officer followed proper procedures during the traffic stop. If there are discrepancies in the evidence, the lawyer can argue that a reckless driving charge is not warranted and that improper driving would be more appropriate.
3. Highlighting Mitigating Factors
A norfolk reckless driving lawyer can also present mitigating factors that explain why the reckless driving charge should be reduced. Mitigating factors are circumstances that may reduce the severity of the offense or explain why the driver acted the way they did. These factors can persuade the prosecutor or judge to view the incident in a more lenient light and consider a reduction to improper driving.
Some common mitigating factors include:
Medical Emergency: If the driver was speeding or driving erratically due to a medical emergency, the lawyer can present this as a reason for reducing the charge.
Poor Weather Conditions: If the reckless driving occurred during adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, the lawyer can argue that the driver’s behavior was influenced by the road conditions.
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Clean Driving Record: A driver with an otherwise spotless driving record is more likely to receive leniency. The lawyer can highlight the defendant's clean history to argue that the reckless driving incident was an isolated mistake.
Taking Responsibility: If the driver has already taken steps to rectify the situation, such as attending a defensive driving course or traffic school, the lawyer can use this as evidence that the defendant is taking responsibility for their actions.
4. Negotiating with the Prosecutor
In many cases, a prince william reckless driving lawyer will negotiate directly with the prosecutor to get the charge reduced to improper driving. Plea bargaining is a common practice in criminal and traffic cases, and the goal of the lawyer is to secure a favorable outcome for their client without going to trial.
Prosecutors are often open to reducing charges if they believe the evidence for reckless driving is weak or if the defendant has a strong case for mitigation. The lawyer will present the case for why improper driving is a more appropriate charge, emphasizing the factors mentioned above. By negotiating a plea deal, the defendant can avoid the uncertainty of a trial and secure a lesser charge with lighter penalties.
5. Presenting the Case to the Judge
If negotiations with the prosecutor are unsuccessful or if the case proceeds to court, the reckless driving lawyer will present the case to the judge. In some states, including Virginia, judges have the discretion to reduce a reckless driving charge to improper driving if they believe the defendant’s actions were not egregious enough to warrant a criminal conviction.
The lawyer will make a compelling argument based on the evidence and mitigating factors, urging the judge to exercise discretion and reduce the charge. Judges are often more willing to reduce the charge if the defendant demonstrates remorse, has a clean driving record, and has taken steps to improve their driving habits.
6. Avoiding Criminal Penalties
By reducing a reckless driving charge to improper driving, the defendant can avoid the more severe penalties associated with reckless driving. Improper driving typically carries a fine of around $500 or less and results in fewer demerit points on the driving record. More importantly, improper driving is not a criminal offense, so the defendant will avoid having a misdemeanor conviction on their record, which could have long-term consequences for employment, insurance rates, and driving privileges.
Conclusion
A reckless driving lawyer plays a critical role in helping defendants reduce their charges to improper driving. Through a combination of evaluating evidence, presenting mitigating factors, negotiating with the prosecutor, and advocating in court, an experienced lawyer can significantly improve the outcome of a reckless driving case. By securing a reduction to improper driving, the defendant can avoid the harsh penalties of a reckless driving conviction and move forward with a much lighter legal burden.
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rubysneakers · 2 months ago
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The Benefits of Using Raised Pavement Markers in Urban Areas
Raised pavement markers (RPMs) offer significant benefits in urban areas by enhancing road safety and traffic management. These markers improve visibility, especially at night or during adverse weather conditions, guiding drivers and reducing accidents. Additionally, RPMs help delineate lanes, pedestrian crossings, and other critical areas, promoting orderly traffic flow. Their durable construction requires minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective solution for cities looking to improve infrastructure and ensure safer streets for all road users.
Improved Visibility with Raised Pavement Markers  
Raised pavement markers (RPMs) significantly enhance visibility on urban roadways, especially in low-light conditions or during inclement weather. Their reflective surfaces catch the light from vehicle headlights, making them easily noticeable. This visibility helps drivers stay aware of lane boundaries, guiding them safely through intersections and along winding roads.
Enhanced Safety Features of Raised Pavement Markers  
Incorporating raised pavement markers into urban infrastructure provides an added layer of safety. These markers serve as physical barriers that can deter vehicles from straying into oncoming traffic or pedestrian areas. They are particularly effective in areas with high pedestrian activity, such as school zones or shopping districts, where safety is a primary concern.
Cost-Effectiveness of Raised Pavement Markers  
The installation of raised pavement markers is a cost-effective solution for urban planners looking to improve road safety without incurring the expenses associated with full road construction or resurfacing. RPMs can be installed quickly and require minimal maintenance, making them an economically viable option for cities seeking to enhance their transportation infrastructure.
Versatile Applications of Raised Pavement Markers  
Raised pavement markers can be utilized in a variety of applications within urban settings. From delineating bike lanes and crosswalks to marking turns and exits on highways, RPMs offer flexibility in design and placement. Their adaptability allows cities to customize road layouts according to specific traffic patterns and community needs.
Reduced Accidents with Raised Pavement Markers  
Statistical studies have shown that the use of raised pavement markers can lead to a reduction in accidents. By clearly defining lane boundaries and highlighting critical road features, RPMs help prevent driver confusion and misjudgment, ultimately lowering the likelihood of collisions. This benefit is particularly crucial in busy urban environments where traffic congestion is common.
Environmental Impact of Raised Pavement Markers  
Raised pavement markers are often made from sustainable materials, making them an environmentally friendly choice for urban infrastructure. Additionally, they contribute to traffic management by encouraging better driver behavior, which can lead to decreased fuel consumption and lower emissions from vehicles idling in congested areas.
Increased Compliance with Raised Pavement Markers  
Drivers are more likely to comply with road rules and regulations when raised pavement markers are present. The physical presence of RPMs acts as a visual cue, reminding drivers to adhere to speed limits and lane restrictions. This increased compliance can lead to smoother traffic flow and a more organized driving environment, benefiting all road users.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the benefits of using raised pavement markers in urban areas are manifold. From improved visibility and enhanced safety to cost-effectiveness and versatile applications, RPMs play a vital role in modern urban infrastructure. By reducing accidents, positively impacting the environment, and increasing driver compliance, raised pavement markers contribute to creating safer and more efficient urban spaces. Cities that prioritize the installation of RPMs can expect to see significant improvements in their transportation networks and overall public safety.
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Last leg
Well, it certainly was a rocky night. The boat is going north/south and the wind west/east. The Kwells means I felt fine, but the motion prevented sleep until about 4 am when it calms. During my sleepless night I finally remembered who designed Norway. In the ever entertaining Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, it was Slartibartfast who was the planet designer whose favourite part of his job was creating coastlines and he won an award for his creation of Norway.
My alarm goes off at 6.30 and time for a coffee. We are disembarking at 8 am, but unlike the cross channel ferries, we all have to be on the car deck and in the cars for 7.30. The port is Hirtshals which is the northern tip of the Jutland Peninsula. The rain is biblical; Noah would have felt at home; and out of the shelter the gale is still blowing. On the dual carriageway road of this very flat part of Denmark the  big lorries have claimed the outside lane. It is going to be a slow journey for me as big lorries in this weather just throws the water right over the car and the body is aluminium so it is light. Not good Morgan conditions.
It is a pity that the North Sea crossing ferries no longer exist. There used to be at least one direct to Scandinavia from the UK and Hull to Hamburg was popular but clearly not popular enough. The only one left is Hook of Holland to Harwich or Newcastle  but as the Hook is only a couple of hours from Calais and is a very short night crossing to Harwich, it is not worth it for me.
A couple of stops - one Talk Radio interview and another on GB news (energy price cap announcement day and they want comments)- and a very slow crawl round Hamburg again, after some  400 miles from Hirtshals I arrive at Bremen for my last night of my holiday. The booking.com app I had used again at one of my stops and it gives me a 10% discount for customer loyalty. I have booked Raddison again and as the room wasn’t quite ready they give me a free drink voucher; and I use my points for food. Not a bad clutch of reductions!
Then on the following beautiful and balmy summer day, I leave Bremen and head for Calais. I have looked at every web site possible and it is going to be fine  weather at last, so it’s roof off and tonneau back on. As it is a good 6 hour plus drive depending on the traffic, I decide to book my crossing when I am closer to Calais.
It’s 13.30 and I have just filled up with petrol and got an ice cream: the sun really is out. Day still glorious I have done half the journey so I go onto the website which gives me ferries and the tunnel. Tunnel for preference, but nothing until 9pm; the P&Os have space at around 5pm which is too early and then again not until 9pm.  DFDS has a 6.05pm crossing. My road app says I should be at the port by 5pm; a tad fine but I reckon I can make it so I book it online. If you are interested, Direct Ferries is easily the best of the sites and does ferries and other options and more or less everywhere.
So it’s 3hours 30mins to the port. No probs and I set off. A couple of queues but nothing serious I should still be there by 5pm. And then an hour out from the port and the red flashing lights come on ahead. Now as you will all know, there is no speed limit on German motorways and undertaking is almost as normal as overtaking. At 80mph I am slow- any more and the wind in my face is too much - and even a Fiat 500 passed me doing about 90 (infra dig!). So when I saw the red lights I assumed an accident. Wrong. It was yet another huge rainstorm and even the seriously fast stuff had dropped to around 50mph. I am instantly soaked. I put my dark glasses so I can see (it is easier to wipe water off specs than off your eye balls) and carry on until I see a services. I get the tonneau off and the roof back on in 10 mins-  I challenge anyone to do it in that time- and get back on the road, using The last of my paper hanks to wipe down the screen on the inside and the mirrors. Forget me, I am just wet! With the speed down and with that stop, I am going to be lucky to get to the port on time.
I finally draw up 5.15pm by the only DFDS booth without a queue, as it’s on the left hand side. Not entirely surprising that the rest have gone for booths on the drivers,  but I am short of time, it’s still pouring rain, I have my shower  jacket on, there is no cover and my  hair is wrecked anyway! ‘You have just made it’ she says and gives me my lane number. 1105.
I do the same at French passport control and he leafs through my totally full passport. I still have 2 years to go but every page is full now; maybe I can get an extension as I have my visas in this passport and having them visible is better than relying on them being on a system. He can’t find what he is looking for and says ‘when did you enter France?’ ‘August 5’ I replied. I neither look or sound like an illegal immigrant and there is no room in the Morgan for anything, so he gave up looking for the entry stamp and passed it back and waved me through. 
The queue for British passport control is wholly different and is long. It is now 5.25 pm and I am seven cars back and each car seems to be taking about 4mins to get through, so I clearly can’t catch that ferry. There is another line moving quicker so I get out for a look and to see if they will let me in as most people’s hangers say they are on the 7.20pm. There are a couple of others though going for 6.05pm so I splash across to the two lanes reserved for lorries as they are empty. I ask the  man in the  booth…... ‘Yes’ he says. 
So I slosh back knocking on the windows of the other two cars I could see with the same ferry time, say follow me and inch the Morgan out of the existing lines into the lorry lane. They follow me and someone shouts. I assume that shout is either ****!!! or ‘I have the same problem have you a solution’. No time for a discussion so I just shout back ‘yes’! 
It worked and I and now several others are through and race for the DFDS which is at the far end of the dock. The ferry is already loading, but we make it into the last line the 1105, with a handful of minutes to spare before the ferry departs. It actually finally departed about ten minutes late.  
Now I am wholly prepared to take my responsibility for being a bit late and deciding to take the option of 6.05pm rather than wait for the later one, but how many people missed that ferry because on the British customs side, they neither had enough officers on duty (some of the customs booths were closed), nor did they have the equivalent of a ���last calls’ line for those who were booked on a ferry that was shortly due to depart? Maybe this is a customs officer go slow in support of a 35% pay rise from Starmer, or maybe no one has just thought about it from the customer perspective - who knows.
My son who lives in Spain texts me and asks me to send him the rain. Would do that with pleasure!
Half way across the channel it stops raining, but whatever is ahead the roof is now staying on!
The Hurtigruten emails me and asks for feed back. I respond very fairly and say that they are running a high class floating retirement home and but they do have a responsibility to tell customers that a low deck number at the stern is noisy, before they book. I am asked for one word that describes my trip. I reply ‘boring’. I receive a response to thank me for my valuable comments - bot speak!
I get a coffee from the bar and am asked if I want the days deal which is a warm muffin. I have not had anything to eat all day and as there  is nothing that looks like a muffin I ask “which is the muffin?” She shrugs. I point at a few things. She shrugs again and so I try s'il vous plaît pouvez-vous indiquer le muffin?” I get given a  scone with jam and cream.
Dover and it’s only a couple of hours to home.
I have driven 3,365 miles plus about another 1,000 by boat and ferry; my exhaust is well and truly blown; the passenger side carpet is soaked and I will need to take it out to dry to avoid it going mouldy - and the same can be said for me- It’s been a bit too wet and I messed up the Tromso back to Bergen leg. But  I have taken the Morgan to the Arctic Circle and back and had a great adventure. What shall I do next year? Ideas on a postcard please!! 
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uk-talk · 3 months ago
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The Future of Internet Connectivity: Why Fiber Optic is Leading the Way
The fiber optic sector has seen substantial growth in recent years, which is a clear indication that their demand is increasing. As IoT (Internet of Things) is becoming increasingly common, there has been an increase in demand for higher bandwidths and fast internet among businesses and home users. The solution lies with the highly efficient and secure fiber optic internet.   What exactly is fiber optic internet? In simple words, it is a type of broadband transmitted through a cable filled with thin glass or plastic fibers. The speed is around 20 times faster than regular cable at 1 Gbps. Here are a few reasons it is considered the future of internet connectivity. Fast internet Fiber optic internet is way faster than traditional broadband connections. Its connections can range from 5 Mbps to 100 Gbps, allowing users to do multiple activities. It makes accessing files really convenient. Additionally, one can also watch their favorite movies or even participate in online gaming without interruption.
Dependability Traditional cable internet means more interruption during peak traffic hours. However, fiber optic cable can handle more users and is not prone to outages. It doesn’t need live lines, so as long as the fiber optic cable stays intact, it can offer uninterrupted internet. Safer High-speed fiber optic internet is considered the future of internet connectivity. In fiber optics, data is transmitted in the form of a light pulse, which is tough to intercept and read. They are also unsusceptible to electromagnetic interference, making them relatively more secure than traditional cable connections. Supports long-distance data transmission Transmission through optical fiber causes low power loss, which helps them to transmit signals to a greater distance with minimum data loss. Ultra-light fiber cable Optic fiber cables are ultra-light and thinner than traditional copper wires. They are made of glass or plastic and weigh about four pounds per 1000 feet. These make them more lightweight and painless to install. Economical Fiber optic cables are durable. As they are made of glass, they are less prone to corrosion and last up to 30 to 50 years, making them an economical alternative. Better signal strength Businesses and home users need higher signal strength to keep the communication flowing. Fiber Optics cables have a lower reduction in signal strength than traditional cables. This allows users to access high-speed internet in extensive areas. Summing Up Whether it is about introducing the digital economy or reaping the benefits of modern technologies, the demand for higher bandwidth and super-fast internet is always on the rise. Fiber optic transmission will continue seeing a surge and will serve future demands. UK Talk is one of the trusted names offering affordable high-speed fiber optic internet service to its esteemed clients throughout the UK. It sustains bandwidth-hungry applications, light browsing, aggressive browsing, buffer-free video streaming, and video calling. Its services include but are not limited to providing business landline, bundled packages, Business Broadband, Business Fibre, cloud voice, public Wi-Fi, broadband, 3CX phone systems, Cloud-Based Telephony Solutions, and innovative energy solutions. With UK Talk, you can enjoy high-speed internet access across all your devices and watch your company thrive.
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risingpakistan1947 · 5 months ago
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Neom City | The Future of Urban Innovation in Saudi Arabia
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Neom City, which is a futuristic project situated in the uncontaminated places of the land of Saudi Arabia, is a suspense of the capabilities of modern urban planning. This burgeoning metropolis envisages being a tech-oriented, eco-friendly, and innovative abode. Positioning its goal for renewable energy sources in the mainstream and exemplary technologies as a way to accomplish the smart city notion makes Neom stand out. The city of Neom's merit lies in its green concept and conservation pattern. The city is constructed with the aid of green areas, renewable energy sources, and an efficient system of waste management that is oriented on the happiness and bliss of people and the planet at the same time. Witnessing the progression of a technologically advanced metropolis to Neom the promising city of symbiosis plays a crucial role in the world as we are heading towards the urbanization stages. The construction moves forward in Neom City Saudi Arabia and seeing how this futuristic utopia emerges into an active and economical hub of assets and cultures, will be very entertaining. Bringing together the characteristics of the past and present in a novel way, Neom emerges as a place that may revolutionize city planning altogether in a way we haven’t considered before. Neom City Saudi Arabia | A Visionary Concept Neom is not just a city; it is an ambitious venture aimed at blowing away those limits of humans' capabilities. Neom came to life in 2017 as part of the Saudi Arabia Vision 2030 plan that aimed to diversify the kingdom's economy and remove the kingdom from oil dependency. This global center was created with a focus on innovation, technology, and sustainability. Embodying an area of 26.500 square kilometers, the plan is going to be implemented strategically in the junction of three countries – Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt – along the Coast of the Red Sea, attaining access to the markets in Asia, Europe, and Africa unsurpassed. 10 best most famous places to visit in Dubai Contrary, to that, Neom City, Saudi Arabia, comes up with the idea of sustainability and smart infrastructure. Its goal is to go with the case of setting new standards for urban development and preservation of the culture at the same time. While traveling throughout a flourishing city, visitors have the opportunity to witness how these divergent features of mass transit successfully co-exist and provide the perfect framework enabling development and progress. Pillars of Innovation At the core of the city lies a commitment to innovation, made up of several sectors which act as pillars to support and shape the city structure and social order. The other column is energy, where Neom is revolutionizing the way we harvest and utilize energy. From the fact that the city receives so much solar radiation and wind, it invests hugely in solar farms, wind turbines, and smart battery storage systems, trying to attain 100 percent of renewables. This emphasis on clean energy ensures not only carbon emissions reduction but also energy security and resilience in a time of worldwide transition in the energy sphere. 10 best places to visit in Qatar Mobility and transportation are also some of the main features of innovation of Neom. In the light of growing urgent necessity for sustainable and efficient transit systems, the city authorities begin work on the creation of driverless cars, high-speed railways, and vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. To achieve this, Neom intends to embed these technologies into its urban space, consequently decreasing traffic jams and time spent commuting and improving mobility. Besides that, the city is looking into the possibility of using hyperloop systems that can make long-distance travel and trade connections region-wide a new reality. In the scope of digitalization, Neom City, Saudi Arabia, included the rich potential of information technology to establish a connected and smooth urban environment. From smart grids and IoT sensors to blockchain-based governance systems, the city is employing digital infrastructure to optimize the use of resources, proffer public services at a higher level, and foster ecosystems of innovation. Digital inclusion is the main mission of Neom, providing each resident with high-speed internet, internet literacy programs, and e-government services to ensure future digital economy participation for all residents. Economic Catalyst Neom City, Saudi Arabia, beyond its technical power, envisions an account of a world economic power that is famous for expanding growth and employment across the world on an unmatched scale. By engaging in critical partnerships with key businesses, startups, and research establishments it is the city that plants the seeds of global innovation and entrepreneurship via an ecosystem that continuously transcends geographic borders. A myriad of companies looks forward to Neom's Special Economic Zone which is characterized by officials who are ready to work within a favorable regulatory framework, a low tax burden, and a streamlined bureaucracy to tap into the opportunities of this thriving hub of innovation. Bujh Khalifa | The tallest building in the World The provision of assistance to startup founders and startup accelerators by the city allows entrepreneurship flourishment in the city so that those innovative ideas can be turned into operation and then further expanded. Neom's dedication to knowledge-sharing and skills enhancement allows both local and foreign talents to gain knowledge and access the best mentorship programs, business incubators, and networking pools, so competition and economic prosperity will provide a nurturing environment allowing innovation to flow. Moreover, Neom City in Saudi Arabia is visionary, as this leadership understands that the protection of natural resources is the basis of long-term economic development. The city can avoid ecological risks and develop new job-making areas within and outside the economy, based on the main investments in renewable energy, car technologies, and green infrastructure. Neom's approach to sustainability does not only involve green issues but also concentrates on society and economics, which includes plans to develop equality social cohesion, and inclusivity in its population, which is diverse.
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Cultural Melting Pot Neom City, Saudi Arabia exhibits this by creating an atmosphere that is highly conducive for people to come from different parts of the world. This metropolis with its open policies, and modern infrastructure may come home to a diversity of cultures, languages, and traditions as well. This diversity will cause an intricate life map, where the locals and travelers can go in different ways of living while staying in the city limits. An active cultural mingling pot demands a creative arts and amusement industry. The Neom City in Saudi Arabia could turn into a creative area in which all international artists migrate, known as a fusion of a global array of influences. The city's cultural venues would not only offer traditional music and dance performances but also involve the creation of brand-new installations. They would cater to the interests of different kinds of people; therefore, everyone could find something to enjoy. Food is the world’s language, and the city of Neom would talk it fluently. Psych out how pleasant it is to be walking in streets that are crowded with eating places around the world. If you yearn for exotic street food from Asia, or enticing delicacies from Europe, or indulge in an amalgamation of flavors across cultures, Neom City would be a gastronomic quest needing to be embarked upon. Constructing a community that sets the tone in a cultural mix is necessary. A city considering building Neom in Saudi Arabia might bring in policies to promote harmonious living based on understanding, coexistence, and respect for differences among its diverse residents. The city would sponsor cultural celebrations, community events, intercultural exchange programs, and neighborhood gatherings to create spaces for people with different backgrounds to feel welcome and respected. Challenges and Criticism A crucial aspect of Neom City, Saudi Arabia is the risk of its environmental damage. Building a large-scale urban development in a fragile desert system can be detrimental to the local environment by endangering wildlife, water resources, and air quality. Critics become anxious about the depletion of natural habitats and rising water consumption, as well as pollution from construction sites and transportation. The usage of renewable energy sources as a foundation for a project is indeed praiseworthy, but it may not fully compensate for the ecological footprint of the project if not adopted with due diligence and monitoring. The next urgent problem is the dislocation of local communities and the possible cultural heritage loss. The construction of the Neom City, Saudi Arabia, and the accompanying infrastructure projects may cause indigenous populations of the area to relocate upending their culture and access to traditional lands. On top of that, fast-paced urbanization together with the increased influx of foreigners will bring about certain social tensions and conflicts over resources, jobs, and cultural heritage. The developers of Neom need to engage with local communities, take heed of their rights, and involve them in the planning process so that their needs are adequately reflected in the plans. Additionally, the geopolitical significance of Neom City, Saudi Arabia, cannot be ignored. Located at a strategic intersection of three countries, the growth of the city would have domino effects on the region's politics, economics, and security. Neom's heavy dependence on foreign investment and expertise poses some crucial questions of compliance with the norms of sovereignty and control over key assets and resources. Completion Date of Neom City, Saudi Arabia The deployment of NEOM City, Saudi Arabia is a major and complicated issue that needs several stages and takes years to realize. Progress goes on in the construction and development of different parts of the city, but some challenges like financing, logistics, and legality can cause changes in the completion period, which is difficult to estimate beforehand. however, the city streets are now being worked on and the goal is to have the rest of the city done by 2039. Neom City, Saudi Arabia - The Future of Smart Cities Neom, Saudi Arabia's futuristic city under construction, has an impressive area of 26,500 km2(10,200 sq. mi), which allows you to look at it from the point of view of the universe. Such an entire area will host varied districts incorporating both a floating industry complex and a global trade center undertaking different functions. Neom futuristic idea as an aggregate shows the intention of crossing the boundaries and rethinking urban development through an unprecedented approach. The floating industrial complex is another fascinating feature of Neom's concept that makes it stand out. Through the use of an untraditional method, the city's farsighted vision is demonstrated by a quest for new options for a city's infrastructure and economy. Moreover, Neom as a global focal point with an exciting potential for international connectivity and economic growth can be seen as an important part of the global trading system. The Neom City, in Saudi Arabia, scheduled for 2039, will set the foundation for the ambitious futuristic city that will be defined by a new urban landscape. The city is not only the world's technology and practice but also makes focuses on innovation and new industries. The aim of making the town a smart one through the adoption of renewable energy sources makes it a symbol of not only environmental protection but progressive urban planning. Furthermore, joining AI and robotics into daily life in Neom City, Saudi Arabia many times shows a society where automation boosts efficiency but at the same time raises several questions regarding the future of work and human contact. Besides making life easier, this tech hub will bring to the fore cultural issues of how such technologies may reform society’s traditional values and norms in surprising ways. Along with the excitement as the goal of the Neom City project becomes more and more real, we also cannot help but step back and think about the consequences of such a tremendous level of technology integration in the designed space. Read the full article
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nuhman-shibili232 · 8 months ago
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Navigating the Road - Exploring the Various Types of Road Markings
Road markings serve as essential visual cues that guide and inform drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians on roadways. From simple lines to intricate symbols and patterns, road markings play a crucial role in promoting safety and efficiency on our roads. In this guest blog post, we'll explore the different types of road markings, including lines, symbols, and patterns, and their significance in facilitating smooth and orderly traffic flow.
Lane Lines: Lane lines are perhaps the most common type of road marking, consisting of solid or dashed lines that delineate individual lanes of traffic. Solid white lines indicate boundaries between lanes traveling in the same direction, while dashed lines denote lanes where lane changes are permitted. Lane lines help drivers maintain proper lane discipline, reduce lane drifting, and navigate multi-lane roadways safely and efficiently.
Crosswalks: Crosswalks are markings designated for pedestrians to safely cross the road at intersections or designated crossings. These markings typically consist of parallel white lines perpendicular to the direction of travel, often accompanied by additional markings such as zebra stripes or pedestrian symbols. Crosswalks enhance pedestrian safety by providing clear paths for crossing and signaling to drivers the presence of pedestrians.
Symbols and Icons: Road markings include a variety of symbols and icons that convey specific messages and instructions to road users. These symbols, painted in distinct colors and shapes, communicate information such as upcoming hazards, speed limits, pedestrian crossings, and lane designations. Common symbols include arrows for indicating direction, yield signs, stop signs, bicycle symbols for bike lanes, and school zone markings.
Pavement Patterns: Pavement patterns are specialized road markings that serve various purposes, including traffic calming, speed reduction, and delineation of special lanes. These patterns, such as chevrons, diagonal lines, and hatched markings, are painted directly onto the pavement surface and are often accompanied by corresponding signage. Pavement patterns are effective in enhancing visibility, alerting drivers to changing road conditions, and promoting safer driving behaviors.
Specialized Markings: In addition to standard road markings, there are specialized markings designed for specific purposes and conditions. These include high-visibility markings for foggy or low-light conditions, reflective markings for enhanced nighttime visibility, and tactile markings for visually impaired pedestrians. Specialized markings cater to unique road environments and contribute to improving overall road safety and accessibility.
Road markings encompass a wide range of lines, symbols, and patterns that serve as essential tools for guiding and organizing traffic on roadways. From lane lines that delineate travel lanes to symbols that convey important messages to road users, each type of road marking plays a crucial role in promoting safety and efficiency on our roads. By understanding the significance of different road markings and adhering to their instructions, drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians can navigate roadways safely and confidently.
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abhishekinfotech · 9 months ago
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Green Technology: A Game-Changer in the Fight Against Climate Change
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The Impact of Green Technology on Climate Change: A Closer Look
In a world grappling with the escalating consequences of climate change, green technology has emerged as a beacon of hope. It represents a transformative approach to addressing environmental challenges by harnessing sustainable practices, renewable energy sources, and innovative eco-friendly tech solutions. In this article, we will delve into the realm of green technology, exploring its diverse facets, its impact on climate change mitigation, and its potential to usher in a more sustainable future for our planet.
1. Understanding Green Technology
Green technology, often referred to as clean technology or eco-friendly technology, encompasses a wide array of innovations and practices designed to minimize the environmental impact of human activities. Its primary aim is to reduce resource consumption, minimize waste generation, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Let's take a closer look at some key components of green technology: 1.1 Renewable Energy Sources One of the cornerstones of green technology is the utilization of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. These sources generate electricity without depleting finite resources or emitting harmful pollutants. Solar panels, wind turbines, and hydroelectric dams have become increasingly prevalent as the world seeks cleaner alternatives to fossil fuels. 1.2 Energy Efficiency Improving energy efficiency is another crucial aspect of green technology. This involves developing technologies and practices that consume less energy to achieve the same or even enhanced results. From LED lighting and smart thermostats to energy-efficient appliances and well-insulated buildings, energy efficiency plays a pivotal role in reducing carbon footprints. 1.3 Sustainable Transportation Green technology extends its reach to transportation solutions. Electric vehicles (EVs) have gained traction as a sustainable alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars. Furthermore, advancements in public transportation systems, including electric buses and high-speed trains, contribute to reduced emissions and traffic congestion. 1.4 Waste Reduction and Recycling Efforts to minimize waste and promote recycling are fundamental to green technology. Innovations in waste management, such as waste-to-energy conversion and biodegradable materials, are helping to divert waste from landfills and reduce environmental harm.
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Green Technology Impact
2. The Role of Green Technology in Combating Climate Change
Now that we've established what green technology encompasses, let's explore its significant role in mitigating climate change: 2.1 Reduced Carbon Emissions The transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources is pivotal in reducing carbon emissions. Solar and wind power, in particular, produce electricity without emitting carbon dioxide, making them key players in the fight against climate change. As more countries adopt these technologies, the global carbon footprint is expected to decrease significantly. 2.2 Energy Independence Green technology promotes energy independence by reducing reliance on fossil fuel imports. Countries that invest in renewable energy sources become less vulnerable to energy supply disruptions and price fluctuations in the global market, enhancing their economic stability. 2.3 Sustainable Agriculture Innovations in agriculture, a critical component of green technology, enable farmers to adopt sustainable practices. These practices reduce deforestation, limit the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers, and promote soil health. Sustainable agriculture not only combats climate change but also ensures food security for future generations. 2.4 Conservation of Natural Resources Green technology also focuses on conserving natural resources, such as clean water and forests. Technologies like water purification systems and sustainable forestry practices help protect vital ecosystems and biodiversity, which are essential for climate regulation.
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The Impact of Green Technology
3. Innovations in Green Technology
To combat climate change effectively, green technology continually evolves and innovates. Here are some recent breakthroughs in the field: 3.1 Battery Technology Advancements in battery technology have accelerated the adoption of renewable energy sources. Energy storage solutions, such as lithium-ion batteries and emerging solid-state batteries, are making it possible to store excess energy generated by solar and wind installations for use during cloudy or windless periods. 3.2 Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) CCU technologies capture carbon dioxide emissions from industrial processes and convert them into valuable products or store them underground. This innovation helps industries reduce their carbon footprint while turning a liability into an asset. 3.3 Artificial Intelligence (AI) AI-driven algorithms optimize energy consumption in buildings, factories, and transportation systems. By analyzing data and making real-time adjustments, AI enhances energy efficiency and reduces waste. 3.4 Circular Economy The concept of a circular economy encourages reusing, recycling, and refurbishing products instead of producing and disposing of them. This approach minimizes waste and extends the lifespan of goods, reducing the strain on natural resources.
4. The Global Impact of Green Technology
Green technology is not limited to developed countries; it has a global impact. Developing nations are increasingly embracing eco-friendly tech solutions as they seek to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. International collaborations and agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, encourage countries to commit to reducing emissions and investing in green technology.
5. Challenges and Future Prospects of Green Technology
While green technology holds immense promise, it faces certain challenges, including the initial high costs of implementation and the need for infrastructure upgrades. Nevertheless, as technology continues to advance, costs are likely to decrease, making green solutions more accessible.
Overview of Green Technology
Green technology represents humanity's collective effort to address climate change and build a sustainable future. By harnessing renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and embracing sustainable practices, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint. The innovations in green technology we've discussed are not only combating climate change but also creating opportunities for economic growth and a healthier planet. As individuals, communities, and nations, we must continue to support and invest in green technology to ensure a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come. Read This Also 👉 Fiverr Affiliate Program. How to earn $1000 per month with Fiverr Affiliate? Watch Video 📺 👉 How to Earn Money Online? Create a Fiverr Buyer and Seller Account | Abhishek InfoTech
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Read the full article
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photonplaysystems · 1 year ago
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In the era of rapid technological advancements, traditional static speed limit signs are being replaced by the cutting-edge innovation of digital speed limit signs. These smart traffic management devices are revolutionizing road safety by providing real-time updates and dynamic speed limit adjustments. This article explores the features and benefits of digital speed limit signs, shedding light on how they are transforming our roads for the better.
Introducing Digital Speed Limit Signs
Digital speed limit signs are technologically advanced road signs that display variable speed limits based on prevailing road conditions, traffic density, and other factors. Unlike traditional signs that remain fixed, these digital marvels are equipped with sensors and communication modules that enable them to adapt to real-time traffic data.
Real-Time Traffic Monitoring
The heart of digital speed limit signs lies in their ability to monitor traffic in real-time. With the integration of sensors, cameras, and communication systems, these signs can gather data on traffic flow, vehicle speed, and density continuously. This information is then processed, allowing the signs to adjust the displayed speed limits accordingly.
Dynamic Speed Limit Adjustments
Static speed limit signs may become inadequate during unpredictable road conditions, such as heavy traffic or adverse weather. Digital speed limit signs solve this problem by dynamically adjusting speed limits in response to changing traffic patterns. For example, during peak hours, the signs can lower the speed limits to ensure smoother traffic flow and reduce the risk of accidents.
Improved Road Safety
The core objective of digital speed limit signs is to enhance road safety. By providing drivers with real-time information about appropriate speed limits, these signs raise awareness and encourage motorists to drive more responsibly. Studies have shown that the presence of digital speed limit signs contributes to a reduction in speeding incidents and overall road accidents.
Weather-Responsive Signage
Adverse weather conditions can significantly impact road safety. Digital speed limit signs are equipped with weather sensors that can detect changes in weather patterns, such as rain, fog, or snow. When unfavorable conditions are detected, the signs adjust speed limits to accommodate safer driving practices.
Conclusion:
Digital speed limit signs are transforming the landscape of traffic management, ushering in a new era of smart and safe roadways. With real-time monitoring, dynamic speed limit adjustments, and integration into smart traffic systems, these signs are proving to be invaluable tools in reducing accidents and promoting responsible driving habits. As we embrace the digital age, digital speed limit signs will continue to play a pivotal role in making our roads safer for all road users.
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lanshengic · 1 year ago
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ON Semiconductor Introduces New Hyperlux Image Sensor Family, Leading the Development of Next-Generation Advanced Driver Assistance Systems to Improve
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【Lansheng Technology Information】ON Semiconductor launched the Hyperlux™ automotive image sensor series, which has a 2.1 µm pixel size, industry-leading 150 dB ultra-high dynamic range (HDR) and LED flicker reduction (LFM) function The range provides high performance, high speed and advanced functions, advancing the development of the next generation of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). HyperLux also supports a smooth transition to Level 2+ autonomous driving, which only requires the driver to take over when a technical alert is received.
The Hyperlux family covers products from 3 megapixels (MP) to 8 megapixels and beyond for perception and vision camera applications. Its HDR of 150 dB captures high-quality images in the most extreme lighting conditions without sacrificing low-light sensitivity. The platform's LFM capability ensures that pulsed light sources do not flicker, thereby avoiding machine vision problems caused by flicker.
"As cars become more connected and move towards autonomous driving, safety is more important than ever," said Chris Adams, Vice President of ON Semiconductor's Automotive Perception Division. "Our understanding of automotive applications and trends, coupled with Combining our engineering expertise in image perception, our customers can develop the next generation of products to move towards the 'Vision Zero' strategy to completely eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries."
Hyperlux is designed to meet the stringent safety requirements of Automotive Safety Integrity Level D (ASIL D) systems, while integrated security maximizes protection against cybersecurity threats. These sensors also provide dual output streams at different resolutions, allowing sensing and other functions to be performed simultaneously. Designers can benefit from its flexible architecture to implement multiple functions with one camera, reducing design time, risk and cost.
Lansheng Technology Limited, which is a spot stock distributor of many well-known brands, we have price advantage of the first-hand spot channel, and have technical supports. 
Our main brands: STMicroelectronics, Toshiba, Microchip, Vishay, Marvell, ON Semiconductor, AOS, DIODES, Murata, Samsung, Hyundai/Hynix, Xilinx, Micron, Infinone, Texas Instruments, ADI, Maxim Integrated, NXP, etc
To learn more about our products, services, and capabilities, please visit our website at http://www.lanshengic.com
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piermanwalter · 3 years ago
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Thief’s Apprentice: Core Gameplay Part 1 - Fights
Index: You are Being Warned
Index
Overview
FIGHTS
Figures 1 and 2, Table 1
SUPER SUMMARY
How Stats Affect Fighting
Status Bars
Weapons
Figure 3
Fight Controls
Purpose of Fighting
Aesthetics of Fighting
Final Thoughts
OVERVIEW 
Thief’s Apprentice is a shitty evil retro open world game about Medieval zombie crime. Being an immortal corpse with no physical senses should be reinforced in every aspect of its design, as well as the day-to-day functions of an entire undead city fuelled by maniacal devotion to half-forgotten joys of life. 
The aimless story composed of seemingly inconsequential and unrelated events culminating into huge payoffs and/or disasters should be reinforced by the gameplay, with the same set of stats influencing and being influenced by every mechanic.
Most fights can be headsmashed through with your gigantic healthbars, so fights should be ended in ways conducive to your goals, not just by winning. To compensate for fights technically being easier than most games, many abstractions and widely accepted quality of life features have been removed from dialogue and inventory to make them as infuriating as I can get away with.
Unsecured objects will move, rot, break, sprout, and form junk piles in your inventory. There is a very simple turn based RPG hidden in the dialogue with “elemental attacks” based on various methods of persuasion, “status effects” based on political affiliation, and “items” based on rare information. 
FIGHTS
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Fig. 1: Health, soul, and stagger bars. 1A-C: Charming Conman, Fleetfooted Housebreaker, Greedy Pickpocket. 1D: Housebreaker partially staggered. 1E: Housebreaker fully grounded, soul partially depleted. 1F: Conman health low (Note: After some changes after rendering in Godot, Fig. 1 is already out of date.)
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Fig. 2: Evil bullshit damage formula, made to maximise evil bullshit
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Table 1: Material impact type grid (values placeholders for now but it should get the vibe across)
SUPER SUMMARY: Revenants don’t usually fight to kill, since even the most deprived madman is very hard to kill and injuries don’t heal naturally. They fight to run away or establish social hierarchy. If you are careful, you can fight a lot through the entire game without being a nohit speedrunner and not heal even once.
Two out of three bros are bad at fighting, so it is not a priority, but if you want to attack, fighting is based on staggering people until they fall over and using the right type of attack on the right type of tissue to maximise damage while making sure it doesn’t happen to you.
HOW STATS AFFECT FIGHTING
Secret stat: weight. The bros have a base minimum and maximum weight based on how much of each type of health they have, but it can go over max by carrying items in inventory or holding heavy containers. Having a giant weight makes your soul decrease faster, makes more noise while walking, and breaks certain types of floors, but has great benefits otherwise, such as increasing your “tipping point” and making you harder to stagger, and as a damage multiplier. It is both thematically appropriate and mechanically advantageous to carry many things and be heavy as hell. Most weapons increase damage simply by increasing your weight. Hopefully there are some playstyles and outrageous cheat methods based on being light, but in a game about gutting the wealth out of an entire city, being heavy should not be discouraged.
Strength: Allows the bros to carry heavy objects and move faster while carrying them. Also acts as a damage multiplier. Damage is calculated when hit boxes on different individuals intersect, as...
((Enemy Stagger X Vector Difference X Weight X Strength X Attack / Hit Point Conversion)) + (Sharpness Boolean or Maybe Not a Boolean if Weapon Sharpness Will Be More Extensive X Sleight)  - (Enemy Defence X Defence Conversion X  Material Impact Type Grid) = Points of Damage per Material
This looks like absolute bullshit, but a majority of these stats don’t change a lot during fights and can be precalculated and reduced into a Super Fight Multiplier (Weight X Strength X Attack / Hit Point Conversion) and Super Damage Additive (Weapon Sharpness Boolean or Maybe Not a Boolean if Weapon Sharpness Will Be More Extensive X Sleight) - (Enemy Defence X Defence Conversion X  (Material Impact Type Grid) . The values of the Material Impact Type Grid, while changing depending on material and impact type, can be called upon with no calculation, so maybe it is a good idea to store nine Super Damage Additives at once. If not, the Super Damage Additive should be calculated without the grid part and there’s also a Super Defence (Enemy Defence X Defence Conversion) to compensate.
There will need to be some kind of iterable that cycles upon all three material types for damage calculation and skips over materials that aren’t there. For the sake of sanity, each attack can only have one type of impact.
The Super Fight Multiplier and Super Damage Additive can easily be stored somewhere and only updated when their component stats change, to prevent processing meltdown hell from calculating the entire damage formula each frame.
Thus the entire formula in terms of frame by frame calculation can be reduced to...
(Stagger X Vector Difference X Super Fight Multiplier) + Super Damage Additive = Points of Damage per Material.
Or with separate Super Damage Additives...
(Stagger X Vector Difference X Super Fight Multiplier) + Super Damage Additive - (Super Enemy Defence X Material Impact Type Grid) = Points of Damage per Material.
I am not sure if the vector difference should just be the speed stat and be consumed by the Super Fight Multiplier, or if it can be calculated in real time based on the movement vectors of each hit box with “approaching” vectors of great difference and “retreating” of little difference upon the first frame of interaction, but the point of this pointlessly complicated damage system is to not have categorical differences between different hit box interactions.
Essentially, this means attacks will hurt more if they are faster and hit head on, and not hurt at all as glancing blows dealt to someone actively running away. This also means it’s easy to accidentally or “accidentally” hurt someone or break things by filling your pockets with bricks and running into them.
This also allows multiple hit box interactions at once. For example, a kick where one corner of your hit box clips slightly into your enemy’s shoulder does one box interaction worth of damage, but if you bodyslam someone, you have so many hit and hurt box interactions and a lot of damage is done.
Attack priority will be easier to figure out after I can see all the boxes, so I’ll do that later.
I hope making the graphics and loading zone sizes purposefully shitty and limited will allow large numbers of hit box interactions and vector calculations to happen relatively quickly, to achieve situations like running away while people throw rocks at you, but the rocks are doing no damage, or charging into oncoming traffic and exploding, or loading your pockets with bricks and ganking someone by jumping off a building on top of them.
Defence: Decreases damage taken by a set amount. Also used to generate a minimum damage threshold, which governs whether or not a regular box turns into a hurt box during box interactions. If not, no damage is taken.
This is EXTREMELY NOT the same as turning into a hurt box and taking no damage from set damage reduction. I will explain this in the Starting and Ending Fights section. 
This also means you can whale to your shrivelled little corpse heart’s content beating on a monolith of defence and they won’t care.
Charisma: This is used to get into and out of fights, which is technically a part of dialogue.
Attack: As you may remember, this is also a damage multiplier.
Speed: Increases movement speed, including fight animations. Increasing speed by a single point is barely perceptible, but the evil bullshit damage formula means this may be enough to reach victory.
Sleight: Also a damage multiplier, but solely acts on sharp and/or finicky attacks. Does nothing otherwise. 
Stamina: Increases your rate of stagger and soul regeneration.
Class: Class may enable the bros to get into or avoid fights, but once a fight starts it doesn’t matter in terms of stats. Enemies may use certain attacks against specific classes. 
STATUS BARS
As seen in Fig. 1, there are three health bars: metal (grey), flesh (red), and bone (beige). There are two other indicators: stagger (dark square turns red while depleting), and soul (light green loops). 
With at least one health bar still there, you will still be alive. When all three bars are depleted, you die. In practice, this means when fighting a knife-wielding enemy who slashed all your flesh apart, you are still alive because your bones and prosthetics are still intact. In 1E, the health bar gets a pointy end, as an indicator of low health, and also because if it stayed square, it would be very hard to see how much you have left as a tiny triangle of pixels stuck behind the stagger bar. I hate when that happens. 
Most importantly, all these health bars are gigantic. I won’t know how the numbers behave until this gets programmed, but assuming fights with regular non-towering-prosthetic-monstrosity Veilheimers deal 0-40 damage per hit, it is normal to have a total of 6000 hit points across all health bars. In practice, this means you die after getting impaled by a spearman running into you at full speed 50 times. This sounds incredibly lenient, but remember revenants are sustained by Death Magic and feel no pain.
At high metal, you are very heavy, highly resistant to physical status types of damage, increases defence and strength greatly, but decreases stamina. High metal also reduces the rate of soul regeneration, to the point where you might die from having more prosthetics than your soul can support. At low metal, you are lighter, speed and stamina increase, but charisma decreases because your fit is busted as hell.
At high flesh, you are heavy, strength, speed, and stamina increase colossally, soul regeneration increases, but you are highly likely to get physical status effects, like burning, smelly, maggots, or rotting. At low flesh, you are light, but charisma and sleight increases because being a skeleton is a lifestyle. 
At high bones, you are heavy, strength and defence increase a bit, and soul regeneration increases massively. At low bones, your charisma and sleight tank catastrophically. Take care of your bones.
Realistically there would also be a fabric health bar, but the UI is cluttered enough already and the in-universe explanation is that the bros are Cyrenean and good at repairing clothes.
Bear in mind that health isn’t the only thing affecting stats.
Because revenants feel no pain and are horrifying tanks in general, there are very few damage indicators like flinch animations and particle effects. To make sure the player understands revenants are horrifying tanks while still being aware when damage is taken, the health bars will break off and fall down the screen. The status bars need to be in the top left. The health bars also need to be this thick because I feel like a single pixel falling down is hard to see.
Note that this only applies to revenants. The living have one tiny health bar and die if it depletes.
The stagger bar, the pink square, determines when you will fall over, and basically acts as a traditional stamina and balance meter. Every action from walking to doing hit animations increases the stagger bar because revenants don’t have a sense of balance. Being in windy or slippy environments automatically increases stagger. Having high stagger, as seen in the evil bullshit damage formula, increases the amount of damage you take as a percent of max stagger, which I realised i did not properly convey in the evil bullshit damage formula, but I can’t be assed to change it. When your stagger reaches maximum, you fall down and your movements are much more limited on the ground, but hopefully you can take someone down with you because it counts as an attack. For the sake of sanity, the stagger formula for getting hit is...
(Vector Difference X Weight X Strength / Stagger Conversion) = Points of Stagger
With the Super Stagger Multiplier (Weight X Strength / Stagger Conversion)...
Vector Difference X Super Stagger Multiplier = Points of Stagger
The stagger formula for getting staggered by your own actions is...
Arbitrary Stagger Value X Weight X Strength / (Stamina X Self Stagger Conversion) = Self Stagger
I’m not sure how the maximum stagger should be calculated. Should it just be...
Stamina X Weight = Max Stagger? 
Stagger is still tracked above the maximum and you can only stand up when it goes under the maximum. It should be really easy to get stunlocked. Being grounded is debilitating for Conman because he can’t do anything except get up. Housebreaker also can’t do anything on the ground, but he does a devastating attack while getting up. Pickpocket can crawl and roll around and has a new set of attacks on the ground, so it may be advantageous to intentionally get knocked over. 
The soul bar is the overlapping green line and is basically your magic meter and level of motivation. Bear in mind as a revenant, every movement and thought is done with magic and every action burns soul. Conman is not physically violent by nature, so his attacks burn a lot of soul. Pickpocket is totally amoral, so his attacks burn some amount of soul. Housebreaker is a belligerent asshole fuelled by violence, so his attacks burn very little soul and the simple ones actually increase soul. In practice, this means you can hide in an alley punching the air until you feel good enough to talk to people without insulting them.
You can also burn soul to empower activities by pressing and holding the soul button (haven’t decided which key it is yet) before pressing another button. If you hold the soul button while running, speed increases, and if you attack while burning soul it will increase attack. I’m not sure if using soul counts as an all-stat boost or if it uses button press context to only boost specific stats. Latter is better I think.
You can also burn soul with a different button to empty your stagger bar, or refill your health bars, except the metal bar. For shitty evil reasons, this burns a ton of soul. Revenants will instinctively let their bodies fall into ruin to conserve soul, which takes huge chunks out of the flesh and bone bars. It should be possible to make a terrible mistake by burning soul to heal flesh, but it’s too much soul, so now you have less flesh than you did before. Fortunately, the bros are also shitty and evil and can increase soul by doing crime.
WEAPONS
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Fig. 3: Circumferential movement increases effectiveness of polearms. 3A: Short star mace. 3B: Long star mace. 3C: Vector difference is calculated by this frame data and previous frame data, meaning you will never get a perfect instantaneous velocity tangent. Deal with it. I will also have to deal with it, to prevent frame disasters leading to infinite damage.
The best and hopefully not the only good thing about the evil bullshit damage formula is that it allows weapon damage to scale in accordance to the range and shape of the actual weapon, not just base stats, although those are also here. As seen in Fig. 3, the hit box of long weapons physically move faster than short weapons, increasing damage.
This technically means damage is affected by framerate, since many frames means smaller vector differences and less damage. Maybe the framerate can be capped, or damage be based on a specific time unit, but it would be super funny if the game was unplayable at high frame rates because the vectors become infinitesimally small and deal no damage.
Weight in the evil bullshit damage formula is actually (Total Weight + Weapon Apparent Weight), which I realised i did not properly convey, again. The Master Design Document is stored somewhere else and posting a scrungy and unreadable design doc draft only makes my ideas harder to copy. In fact, I’m counting on people to not read this.
Weapon Apparent Weight takes into account deliberately unbalanced weapons like maces and gourds on a stick that concentrate weight on the end to hit harder. Sharpness Boolean or Maybe Not a Boolean takes into account weapon sharpness and proper edge alignment. If it’s not a boolean, it could be a Sharpness Proficiency Type Grid.
Different attacks with the same weapon can have different damage types. For example, hitting someone with the flat side of a shovel is blunt damage, hitting them with the edge is cut damage, and piercing them with the point is still cut damage. Stabbing someone with a sword is stab damage, but hitting them with the hilt does blunt damage.
There should be some button to press to change grip, thus changing damage type without needing to open your inventory and switch weapons mid fight. I hate doing that. It also won’t fit the shitty and evil design ethos to switch between weapon loadouts quickly. 
There should be breakable weapons, but I haven’t decided how to do it yet. Ideally, a random object like a gourd on a stick breaks instantly, a regular intended weapon’s health bar is as big as yours, and well made weapons are nearly indestructible. 
Weapon sharpness and apparent weight worsen by either the boolean or by the grid. I haven’t decided.
Holding weapons can have different effects on stats aside from weight. Holding a menacing weapon increases attack. Holding something that’s not a weapon decreases attack for Conman, but increases attack for Housebreaker because he’ll beat your skull in with a gourd on a stick if he has to. Conman also gets more attack from having weapons in his inventory, not just by holding them. Pickpocket is not emotionally affected by weapons because he lacks awareness of many things.
GETTING THINGS STUCK IN YOU
I can’t think of a better way to word this mechanic, but basically when a barbed or sticky attack lands and its damage exceeds the Stuck Threshold, or when you grab someone, when one of you gets staggered, the other takes the same amount of stagger, you can only move within a set radius of each other, and the strongest one gets to drag the other around until either the weapon is let go of, or the equal amount of damage to the Stuck Threshold is taken to get unstuck. Getting stuck persists between loading zones, allowing you to get dragged across the city.
The Getting Things Stuck in You Formula is...
Sticky Boolean Like an Actual Boolean X Sticky Conversion - (Points of Flesh X Sum of Sticky Status Effect Additives) = Stuck Threshold
Maybe it would be better as If Sticky Boolean = Yes, then...
Sticky Conversion - (Points of Flesh X Sum of Sticky Status Effect Additives) = Stuck Threshold
This is something else that can be only recalculated on the frame any of its components changes. Basically, the fleshier and stickier you are, the more likely it is to get things stuck in you.
This is potentially one of the most broken mechanics and I’m willing to cut or simplify it if it gets too off the shits, but it would be super funny to steal weapons by covering yourself with glue and deliberately getting attacked. 
For the sake of sanity, it would be best if you are sticking someone else, you can’t get things stuck in you, but it should be possible to form “sea urchins” of many people sticking one person.
But it would be even funnier if you could form geometric webs of an entire loading zone of people stuck together, even though this is impossible to make.
Conman is the only bro who can get stuck in things while unarmed.
It would be shitty and evil if being stuck only tracked radius so you can move and turn and the weapon stuck in you just carves its way around without doing anything. 
STARTING AND ENDING FIGHTS
As stated above, one way of accidentally or “accidentally” starting fights is to run into someone, and surpassing the minimum damage threshold. The minimum damage threshold deserves a formula but I can’t be assed to formulate one right now. Basically it allows people to get into fights even when no damage is taken, or damage is taken but they let it slide. It should also be possible to lower the minimum damage threshold by making someone hate you through dialogue and reputation.
Assuming you aren’t running into people all the time, the main way to start fights is mid-conversation, by insulting one specific person or group. You should also be able to yell at people without starting conversations, but I am still not sure how to make that target specific people.
It would be really funny if cursor targeting was solely used to start fights with specific people.
Alternatively, it might be better to pick a madlibs type fill in the blanks statement that you say whenever you press the designated yell button, that can be used for many other things, but also for starting fights. For the sake of playable character insignificance, other people will also be yelling things, often completely unrelated to the current situation.
For example, you can yell, “(demographic) ARE (adjective)” and use “MASONS ARE A BLIGHT” to piss off every mason in earshot, or start fights with specific people by using, “(greeting) (individual)”. That said, some people are getting yelled at in the street so much that insults from you from you will be ignored.
This is EXTREMELY NOT the same as being in the middle of a conversation and picking an option or pissing someone off to the point of starting fights. 
You can also start fights by breaking things and causing problems.
Obviously, you can also purposefully attack people.
Obviously, other people can also just attack you for being there.
If you bother the living in any way, all civic-minded Veilheimers will attack you.
There isn’t a specific fight mode instigator for you, meaning that you get to decide if the person insulting you or running you over in the streets warrants attacking. For shitty evil reasons, this does not apply to Housebreaker, who will automatically go into fight mode when he sees someone holding one bottle of wine in each hand, a three-legged dog, or a yelling guard.
Obviously, fights end when you or your opponents die.
But the best way of ending fights is by negotiation. You have “I won. You give up.” and “You won. I give up.” buttons that you can press any time during fights. Surrendering usually works, but whether demanding your opponent to surrender depends on achieving secret objectives like 3 knockdowns or destroying 50% of their flesh before they surrender. Bear in mind some revenants will kill and die for the pettiest reasons imaginable. 
FIGHT CONTROLS
To make fighting as shitty and evil as possible, I’m taking inspiration from Dark Souls and making it worse. Not only are attack animations slow and laborious, they only start after you let go of the attack button. The purpose of this is to make you feel like a sluggish insensate creature, and make fighting feel so viscerally bad that you try to avoid it. For the sake of sanity, most opponents will also be sluggish insensate creatures.
There are three attack buttons. One for dealing high stagger but low damage, one for purposeful attacking, and one for mauling the hell out of people. If you press and let them go like any normal game, all the attacks suck, which may be useful if you want to intimidate someone without killing them. 
You can press and hold the buttons for up to 3 seconds for better versions of the same 3 attacks, at the cost of increased self stagger.
For shitty evil reasons, using weapons gives you only one attack for the weapon-related button at any given time, until you change grip and get a different single attack.
Should there be combos? No. Die.
Should there be crouch attacks? Only one and it sucks.
Should there be running attacks? Ok. Fine.
The reason for 3 attack buttons is using the last button for items.
PURPOSE OF FIGHTING
You won’t achieve your objectives by killing everyone in your path, unless your objective is to kill everyone in your path. For example, if you kill someone while trying to get information out of them, that information is gone. If you kill someone while robbing their store, the store closes and you miss out on potential later goods. If you try to put a dent in the guard population by killing them, that just summons more guards.
The main objective of fighting is to figure out what to do in order to make your enemy surrender, so afterwards you can ask for whatever you want. There are some obvious physical and personality indicators for how hard you are supposed to kick someone’s ass before they comply, but as i said before, some revenants will die on one degree hills. 
For shitty evil reasons, there are no direct ways of finding exactly how to make someone surrender beyond incidental information like “If you knock him over enough, he’ll just sit there and give up.” or “She’s in debt. Bought too many nice prosthetics.” Maybe there can be expensive magic items that tell you what to do, but sometimes they don’t know and lie.
Sometimes fights have multiple stages when you have to kick someone’s ass to make them hear you out, and you ask too much of them, so you have to kick their ass again.
Even fighting your hardest all the time won’t help you.
If you are having a fun shoving match between friends, but you start mauling people, the win condition may go from “stagger 3 times” to “You dare try to kill me? You pitiful mad traitor. I’ll kill you first.”
Be careful how you behave during fights.
If you have a gun, the win condition may go from “break 50% metal” to “holy fucking shit dude. do whatever you want.”
If you keep demanding surrender to a proud opponent, the win condition may go from “break 20% bone” to “Go fuck yourself. Break 20% bone and +5% more bone for each time you demand surrender.”
If you are seriously losing, but you keep demanding your opponent surrender, the win condition may go from “stagger 30 times” to “Are you ok? I’m worried about your sanity. I surrender.”
If you keep using magic items against a wizard hater, the win condition may go from “hit 20 times or break 10% metal” to “Wizard. Die.”
In practice, the win conditions will be more specific and include things like fire tolerance and how far you need to run away before they grant you mercy, but these are just for demonstration purposes.
AESTHETICS OF FIGHTING
It needs to look shitty and evil. These are rotting zombies clawing and bumbling into each other, with no flinch, knockback, or invincibility frames at all, just taking turns smacking each other until the other gives up or dies. Fighting is less about being actually good, and more about deciding how much of your health and soul you are willing to destroy to achieve other objectives.
If you see anyone fighting with real grace and technique, get out.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Here are things that I can’t be assed to fit into specific categories. 
Bear in mind that all of this is intended for 8 directional movement. Theoretically, this makes it easier to line up vectors for better damage, since there are much fewer possible orientations of boxes.
Pressing and holding buttons seems to tie similar mechanics together while also making you feel slow and numb, which massively suits the setting, so I will work it into other controls.
I hate when writers or directors form an idea in 30 seconds and it takes the rest of the team ten thousand hours to realise it. For the sake of equity and good game design, I should spend at least 20% amount of time thinking of something as it takes to realise, which is one of the reasons I put all my thoughts here. Another reason is as a screening method, because if I can’t even be assed to fully articulate and write down an idea, it probably sucks.
I know firsthand making funny and cool comic about interpersonal relationships gets the most attention, but that’s the least useful thing for me to make in order to actually finish the game. Bathe in love for something that doesn’t exist, or watch as everyone forgets about something that does? It’s the game designer’s eternal crisis.
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electricscooters · 3 years ago
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Prime 10 Electrical Scooters
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Benefits of Vehicle Automation for Public Transportation Operations-Iris Publishers
Authored by  Kareem Othman*
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Abstract
Over the past few years, vehicle automation has witnessed tremendous focus from both the academic perspective and industrial perspective. However, autonomous cars have been the main focus of many studies in the literature, unlike research on the automation of buses which is rare. Thus, this paper discusses the benefits of the application of the automation technology to the public transportation service. Autonomous buses can improve the quality of transit service, reduce the operating costs dramatically, increase vehicle utilization, increase the frequency of the transit service with low operating costs and allow for vehicle platooning. While many benefits can be achieved from the automation of buses, further research studies and focus from the academia are required to quantify these benefits, estimate the implications of the automation of public transportation service, and understand how these implications will affect both transit agencies and transit users.
Keywords:Autonomous vehicles; Autonomous buses; Public transportation
Introduction
Over the last few years, media have been fascinated by autonomous vehicles (AVs) and their implications in our lives. It is expected that AVs have the potential to provide many benefits such as:
1. Safety: it is estimated that human error contributes to 90% of traffic accidents that mainly result from distraction of drivers. Thus, AVs have the potential to reduce the collision rate [1,2].
2. Increase lane capacity: due to the high level of communication between AVs, it is expected that AVs can operate with much shorter lateral and headway gap. Additionally, this high level of communication allows AVs to travel in platoons. As a result, AVs have the potential to increase lane capacity [3,4].
3. Accessibility: AVs have the potential to improve the accessibility for people with limited transportation such as old people and disabled [5-9].
On the other hand, the main question is how AVs will operate as fleets and what are their impact on public transportation as one of the main advantages of public transportation is the ability to move a large number of people with much fewer number of vehicles to solve congestion issues and pollution challenges. There are growing consensus that AVs might worsen traffic and environmental conditions even if AVs use electric engines. AVs are expected to increase the vehicle kilometers travelled (VKT) significantly. Passengers will be able to participate in other activities while travelling, which will motivate people to create longer trips [10]. For example, some people might choose to live further away from their work location (for example to pay lower rent) and spend longer trips while spending their work trip time sleeping. Additionally, AVs will motivate people to create additional trips. As a result, AVs might worsen traffic conditions and increase congestion levels [11]. Thus, researchers at ETH Zurich have suggested that the introduction of AVs might not be environmentally friendly and that cities might need to prohibit the use of personal AVs [12] and invest more in autonomous buses. This paper illustrates the benefits of the application of vehicle automation technology in the public transportation sector.
Potential benefits of Autonomous Buses (ABs)
1. Transit service will be much standardized as there are no different driving styles, good and bad drivers. Thus, Driver behaviors will not be a factor that influences reliability, and speed.
2. ABs have the potential to reduce the operating costs because of the elimination of the wage cost of bus drivers (which represent almost 50% of the overall operating costs). Additionally, the fuel cost will be reduced significantly as according to today’s trends that autonomous vehicles usually have electric engines. A financial analysis by Nagy & Horváth [13] show that ABs can reduce the overall costs (operating and capital costs) by 17-24% compared to the current system. This reduction in the operating costs will reduce transit fare significantly and attract more people to transit.
3. ABs have the potential to increase the vehicle utilization. In human driven buses, ABs and drivers are connected. If the driver takes the rest time, then the vehicle (which is the most expensive component of the system) rests too. Thus, the vehicle utilization does not exceed 60 or 70%, which in turn means that the vehicle does not generate income in third part of its working time because of the rest time. This utilization can be increased in autonomous buses. For example, a study by Nagy & Horváth [13] in the city of Eger, Hungry shows that ABs have the potential to reduce the required fleet from 37 buses to 32 buses (saving 4 buses) to provide the same service. This reduction in the fleet size, means lower operating costs.
4. ABs have the potential to increase the frequency without significant increase in the overall costs. Generally, passengers preferer short headways to reduce their waiting time, while Operators preferer long headways to reduce their operating costs and fleet size. Thus, estimating the service frequency is an optimization problem that balances between the operating costs and passenger costs. ABs will be a game changer that will allow for the use of smaller buses and with much lower operating costs (No driver cost, no fuel cost) compared to human driven buses. Thus, ABs will allow for providing higher frequency with much lower operating costs. This will be very helpful for people in rural or devastated areas. This increase in the frequency will reduce passengers waiting time and will attract more users to transit. Figure 1 shows the difference in the operating costs between the case of human driven buses and ABs (Figure 1).
5. ABs have the potential to improve the bus rapid transit (BRT) service because of the ability of buses to form platoons. BRT gives buses many of the best qualities of trains without the accompanying price tag. On the other hand, light rail transit (LRT) improves mobility along their communities’ busiest corridors. The main advantage for adapting LRT is the high-level of capacity offered for high demand routes. However, the main issue associate with LRT systems is the high construction cost. One of the major advantages of bus automation is that it will allow buses to travel in platoons and formulate a system that has much higher capacity similar to the LRT system (as shown in Figure 2) but with much lower capital cost(as the cost of rail construction is eliminated). Autonomous vehicle technology would allow BRT operators to link multiple buses together seamlessly, adapting to demand and adding capacity as needed (Figure 2).
Dynamic Transit lanes (DTL)
Exclusive bus lanes (EBL) or sometimes called conventional transit lanes, which cars are not allowed to use, have been implemented in many urban areas across the world with the goal of improving transit speed. On the other hand, the major issue for the exclusive bus lanes is the significant reduction in the road capacity for other road users. Transit usually runs infrequently, leaving large gaps during which the EBL are not used. Thus, the idea of the intermittent bus lanes (IBL) was proposed in 2001 by Viegas and Lu. IBLs allow private vehicles to use transit lanes when transit is not present [14,15]. IBLs are accessible for cars at specific times depending on the transit schedules and this accessibility was communicated through variable message signs or flashlights [16]. IBLs were implemented in two cases studies one in Melbourne, Australia and the other one in Lisbon, Portugal. Results of these two case studies showed significant improvement in transit speed (10-25%). However, previous studies highlighted several issues preventing the efficient use of DTLs. For example, communication changes in transit lanes need to be communicated quickly to drivers. However, conditions that increase the congestion level, such as the adverse weather or the peak hour demand, might reduce the visibility of the variable message signs or the flashlights [17]. These issues can be addressed by connected and autonomous vehicles technology that is entirely controlled by computers and does not need the driver’s intervention. In 2018, Levin and Khani [16] proposed the dynamic transit lanes idea that employees vehicle connectivity and automation to change the accessibility of the transit lane at small spatial and temporal intervals. DTLs are lanes that are accessible to cars when transit is not present. When the bus travel along the DTL, private vehicles in front of the bus exit the lane, and private vehicles behind the bus can move into the lane once the bus has passed as described in Figure 3. Numerical results for the application of the DTL for the city of Austin show that that both transit and general traffic would experience significant benefits. For examples, results show that the dynamic transit lanes if applied with transit signal priority allow transit to move nearly at free flow on the corridor despite congestion (Figure 3).
Speed Advisory System and Benefits on the Intersection Level
While TSP makes public transit more competitive, it results in significant delays to general traffic. In the near future, thanks to the development in intelligent transportation systems and the communication capabilities between vehicles and the infrastructure signals will be able to broadcast Signal Phase and Timing status information to nearby vehicles [18]. In 2014, Seredynski and Khadraoui [19] discussed two new complementary systems to the TSP. These systems are the Green Light Optimal Speed Advisory (GLOSA) and Green Light Optimal Dwell Time Advisory (GLODTA) systems. GLOSA provides a bus with speed guidance and GLODTA While TSP makes public transit more competitive, it results in significant delays to general traffic. In the near future, thanks to the development in intelligent transportation systems and the communication capabilities between vehicles and the infrastructure signals will be able to broadcast Signal Phase and Timing status information to nearby vehicles [18]. In 2014, Seredynski and Khadraoui [19] discussed two new complementary systems to the TSP. These systems are the Green Light Optimal Speed Advisory (GLOSA) and Green Light Optimal Dwell Time Advisory (GLODTA) systems. GLOSA provides a bus with speed guidance and GLODTA
Self-Regularization System (Buses Adapt to Signals and Signals Adapt to Buses)
Based on the discussion in the previous section, it can be stated that in the future some objectives of TSP could be achieved by in-vehicle advisory systems or by taking the advantage of the vehicle connectivity and automation. Connectivity will facilitate the communication between buses and the infrastructure. This communication will allow signals to broadcast Signal Phase and Timing status information to nearby vehicles. Additionally, for the case of autonomous buses, speeds can be controlled to achieve a pre specific goal such as arriving at the intersection when the signal is green. Additionally, this new system can be complemented by the DTL to improve transit speed. As shown in the figure, system T3 is expected to enhance transit speed as the DTL will allow buses to travel near their free flow speed. Figure 4 shows a time space diagram example for three cases: T1: conventional TSP system, T2: conventional TSP complemented with speed the GLOSA and GLODTA, and T3: speed and dwell time advisory systems complemented with DTL. As shown in the figure, system T3 is expected to enhance transit speed as the DTL will allow buses to travel near their free flow speed.
Conclusion
It is expected that the introduction of autonomous vehicles will have a significant influence on the entire transportation system. However, there are growing consensus that AVs might worsen traffic and environmental conditions even if AVs use electric engines. Thus, some researchers have suggested that the introduction of AVs might not be environmentally friendly and that cities might need to prohibit the use of personal AVs and invest more in autonomous buses. This paper illustrates the benefits of the application of vehicle automation technology in the public transportation sector. Autonomous buses have the potential to provide many benefits such as:
1. Improve the quality of transit service: the use of the DTL allow buses to travel near the free flow travel speed which improve transit speed and in turn improve the quality of the service provided. Additionally, ABs have the potential to increase transit service frequency without significant increase in the overall costs as ABs reduce the operating costs significantly. Estimating transit service frequency is an optimization problem that balances the operating costs and passenger costs. Thus, ABs will allow for providing higher frequency with much lower operating costs, which will be very helpful for people in rural or devastated areas. This increase in the frequency will reduce passengers waiting time and will attract more users to transit
2. Reduce the negative impact on traffic: it is widely stated that transit projects have adversarial impacts on traffic such as transit signal priority that provides priority to transit but increase traffic delay for the cross street. However, the use of the Self-regularization system that adjusts the bus speed to allow the bus to arrive at the intersection while the signal is green can improve the quality of transit service and on the same time does not increase the general traffic delay.
It must be mentioned that while many benefits can be achieved from the automation of buses, further research studies and focus from the academia are required to quantify the implications of the automation of public transportation service and understand how these implications will affect both transit agencies and transit users.
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