Stacy Brown worries when her 1-year-old son, Mason, stops breathing. And what worries her even more is that she doesn’t know exactly what causes him to stop.
She’s taken him to the hospital and to doctors, but she said she still has no answers.
“He stops breathing if it gets too hot or if he gets sick,” Brown said. “But even in air conditioning, he’ll have spells where he stops breathing and then starts back.”
In his first year of life, he’s been to the hospital three times, she says.
The family’s medical problems don’t end there. Stacy, at 22, deals with chronic depression after finding her 53-year-old mother dead of a heart attack and watching her brother try to revive his 3-month-old son — her nephew — when he suffocated in his crib.
“I can still remember both of their faces,” Stacy said.
Her oldest child, 5-year-old Savannah, was born two weeks early and had colic. And husband Michael, 23, is already experiencing chest pains.
Medicaid helps pay for children’s health care but they say waiting lists at the clinics that take Medicaid often keep them from seeing doctors when they need them.
The Browns are homeless, taking one day at a time and trying to build a better life as part of Family Promise, a nonprofit agency that gives them places to stay in a network of local churches. They focus on survival as they move from church to church.
“I’m just thankful to have somewhere to sleep and something to eat,” Brown said.
The Browns are not the only ones in Anderson County who feel that way.
In 2010, 38 percent of Anderson County’s children were insured through Medicaid. Statewide, the numbers reach 42 percent, said Jeff Stensland, the state’s health department spokesman. In 2009, 56 percent of the children born in Anderson County were born to mothers insured by Medicaid.
South Carolina ranked 45th out of 50 states for overall child well-being in 2010, according to the state’s Kids Count data. Health workers said they are seeing more cases of asthma, respiratory illnesses, attention deficit disorder, hypertension — and even mental illnesses than they used to.
And officials say the state and Anderson County are paying a high price.
At AnMed Health alone, the cost of providing health care to patients insured by Medicaid has risen 429 percent in the past 10 years.
“These numbers tell us that there are a lot of poor people in South Carolina,” Stensland said. “When you look at this stuff globally, the levels of healthy — or unhealthy factors — are pretty high in South Carolina. And yeah, there is a societal price to pay when you have an unhealthy population.”
The budget crunch
By noon on a recent Friday, more than 50 sick children had already entered the AnMed Health Children’s Health Center. Some were quiet, with pained expressions, sniffling with red, puffy eyes. Others danced and pulled on parents’ pants legs as they waited for their turn.
This is the clinic where most of Anderson County’s children insured through Medicaid come for their regular doctor visits.
Director Sheila Woods said this clinic exists because most family practices don’t want too many Medicaid patients.
“Greater than 90 percent of the kids who come through our doors are insured through Medicaid. You can’t make ends meet with only Medicaid dollars,” Woods said. “So, the hospital felt that a clinic like this one is a community service.”
That service costs real money.
From October 2009 to September 2010, 20,000 children passed through the doors of the children’s health center for medical care. That came with a price tag of nearly $3.2 million. About $1.6 million, or 50 percent of the total budget, was paid for by Medicaid and patients’ insurance.
The remaining $1.6 million was added to AnMed Health’s column of unpaid medical costs.
In 2010, AnMed Health submitted a $128.5 million bill to Medicaid and was reimbursed for $38.7 million.
“That’s a significant burden,” said Jerry Parish, the chief financial officer for AnMed Health. “And we know they are going to cut reimbursement rates again. Medicaid has told us that they are going to cut our rates by at least 10 percent.”
That is a drastically different situation than what existed in the year 2000. The total costs for Medicaid coverage in 2000 reached only $29.9 million and the government gave AnMed Health back $21.5 million.
And those Medicaid costs are just one column of the debt that AnMed Health accrues in a year. The hospital’s debt and charity cases saw huge increases as well, even if those areas didn’t climb as fast as the cost of coverage to Medicaid patients did.
Information released by Parrish’s office shows that in 2000, AnMed Health spent $9.7 million in health care for patients who did not qualify for Medicare or Medicaid, but still did not have enough income to pay for their medical care.
By 2010, the patients who qualified for the hospital’s charity assistance reached 6,244 and the cost of that care had increased by 412 percent — to $40.1 million.
And the bad debt — the cost of health care that is not paid for — topped $84 million in 2010. In 2000, the hospital’s bad debt totaled $21.9 million.
“That $84 million, that’s all those who are unemployed or underemployed,” Parrish said. “Maybe they have a full-time job but they don’t have insurance and can’t afford the health care. All of that is then shifted to someone else.
“And there’s no one we can call and ask them to sponsor a patient.”
Not just runny noses
As the Medicaid costs have climbed, children’s overall health in South Carolina and Anderson County has not improved, said Jeff Stensland, the spokesman with the state health department.
The state spent $5.8 million providing Medicaid to residents — most of whom are children, Stensland said. That was an increase from the $4.2 million spent in 2005.
Yet, South Carolina continues to rank near the bottom of the nation in the overall health of its children.
The national Annie E. Casey Foundation, which looks at the overall well-being of children, released data in 2010 that showed South Carolina as 45th in the nation for the health of its children. The factors that placed the state 45th: infant mortality rate, percentage of babies born below a healthy weight, the teen death rate, and the percentage of children living in single-parent homes.
The Centers for Disease Control puts South Carolina fourth in the nation for its number of babies born with a low birth weight. In 2009, 10 percent of the state’s children were born with low birth weights. The state with the highest rate was Mississippi, with 12.2 percent of its children born with low birth weight.
“As long as Medicaid coverage is there, they will have some level of health insurance,” Stensland said. “But that does not always translate into good health because there are so many other factors that play into health other than insurance.”
For Sheila Woods, statistics on low birth weight, Medicaid costs and child-well-being rankings — aren’t just numbers. Those numbers have faces.
Like the 6-year-old girl who came into the clinic, twisting her hands together as Woods talked to her. The girl wasn’t sleeping because her mother, who left in the middle of the night for another state, told her in a letter that she was going to kill her grandparents.
Or like the fourth-grade boy who was thinking of suicide after he lost his grandmother and his father to suicide, all in the span of two years.
“He didn’t have a well-thought-out plan, but he was very set that he wanted to die,” Woods said.Woods cared for children in the Appalachian region of Kentucky for 19 years before taking on the role here in Anderson as the director of the AnMed Health Children’s Health Center. The largest difference she’s seen between the children in Anderson and those in Kentucky is the number of mental health problems they are dealing with here.
“I have to say that my previous practice was in Lexington, Ky., and we did see a lot of mental health issues, but the seriousness of the mental health issues in this Medicaid population is greater,” she said.
Not every child who is treated here has such a sad history. But many of them still have health problems that put them at risk for repeating the cycle of poverty in which they may be living.
The top illnesses that the clinic’s staff sees in young Medicaid patients: asthma, respiratory illnesses, dehydration, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, high blood pressure as a result of obesity, hypertension and heart problems, Woods said.
“Poverty is such a brutal condition for kids,” Woods said. “When you are a kid and you don’t know if you are going to eat when you get home, that tends to be a trigger for anxiety and depression. And it’s also reflected in poorer school performance. So it really is a vicious cycle.”
2011年5月29日 星期日
Prison for man who said God made him slash woman's throat
An Easton man who police say choked an Allentown woman with a lamp cord, slashed her throat and said God made him do it will spend up to a dozen years in state prison.
Dennis Rafael Calderon, 29, was sentenced Thursday to five to 10 years in state prison by Lehigh County Judge Robert L. Steinberg.
According to authorities:
Allentown police were dispatched around 6 a.m. Nov. 24 to a home in the 400 block of Green Street. When an officer arrived, he heard a woman screaming for help.
Two officers went to the back of the home, where they found Damaris Ortiz, the mother of two of Calderon's children, on the porch bleeding profusely from her face and neck. Ortiz had two cuts on her face and a 4-inch cut across her throat.
Ortiz told the officers Calderon slashed her. She said the last thing she remembered was Calderon choking her with a lamp cord and saying, "God commanded me to kill you."
Inside the home, officers discovered blood on a banister and blood drops leading to a second-floor bedroom. In the bedroom, police found an unidentified man holding down Calderon and an 8-inch kitchen knife nearby. Calderon was taken into custody.
When Calderon pleaded guilty in March to aggravated assault — the most serious charge he had faced – Chief Deputy District Attorney Charles Gallagher III said Ortiz has recovered. He said she needed four stitches in her forehead and nine stitches in her neck.
Calderon has several past convictions for weapon and drug offenses, court records show.
He has been in Lehigh County Prison under $500,000 bail since his arrest, according to court records.
Dennis Rafael Calderon, 29, was sentenced Thursday to five to 10 years in state prison by Lehigh County Judge Robert L. Steinberg.
According to authorities:
Allentown police were dispatched around 6 a.m. Nov. 24 to a home in the 400 block of Green Street. When an officer arrived, he heard a woman screaming for help.
Two officers went to the back of the home, where they found Damaris Ortiz, the mother of two of Calderon's children, on the porch bleeding profusely from her face and neck. Ortiz had two cuts on her face and a 4-inch cut across her throat.
Ortiz told the officers Calderon slashed her. She said the last thing she remembered was Calderon choking her with a lamp cord and saying, "God commanded me to kill you."
Inside the home, officers discovered blood on a banister and blood drops leading to a second-floor bedroom. In the bedroom, police found an unidentified man holding down Calderon and an 8-inch kitchen knife nearby. Calderon was taken into custody.
When Calderon pleaded guilty in March to aggravated assault — the most serious charge he had faced – Chief Deputy District Attorney Charles Gallagher III said Ortiz has recovered. He said she needed four stitches in her forehead and nine stitches in her neck.
Calderon has several past convictions for weapon and drug offenses, court records show.
He has been in Lehigh County Prison under $500,000 bail since his arrest, according to court records.
LAMP 3: To further boost Bohol’s economy
“LAMP1 and LAMP2 are not just programs; they are life to the people,” Gov. Edgar Chatto stressed.
“And, with Bohol’s overarching development framework being similar to LAMP’s aim of poverty reduction, there is no doubt that LAMP3, which, no doubt, would come into being shortly, would be zealously and passionately received by the people,” he said.
A three-man team from the Information Education Communication (IEC) of the Land Administration and Management II Project (LAMP2) from Manila came all the way to Bohol to have an up-close and personal interview with Gov. Edgar M. Chatto of Bohol Thursday.
Chatto faced the questions head on and, without batting an eyelash, told the IEC of the initiatives done by the Chatto-Lim Administration like the very careful attention it has given to priority programs and projects that have been started to make sure updating are thoroughly discussed to understand present situations and the next steps to be taken and the challenges to face to make sure that targets for the project are hit.
LAMP2 addresses the Philippine Government’s medium-term goals of the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act with social equity; and good governance, which serves the overarching national goal of the P-Noy Administration of poverty reduction and growth.
The development objectives of the project are to increase land tenure security and improve land administration services through the implementation of institutional and legal reform, the realization of an accelerated land titling program, and the establishment of a fair and uniform property valuation system. This is done through the development of national policies, a regulatory framework and reform of the institutional structure for land administration and management; issuance of titles in urban and rural areas; and the standardization of the land valuation system through the establishment of an efficient and fair property valuation system that meets international standards.
Chatto informed the IEC that the provincial government makes sure that streamlining of the LAMP2 project in Bohol is institutionalized making the distribution of land titles go about smoothly.
The “people’s governor” said that Bohol has reaped quite a number of benefits from LAMP2’s implementation that its impact is deeply-rooted in the hearts of the people and that it has helped a lot in the capacity building of the less-privileged and in revenue generation in terms of property taxes.
Now that Bohol has an increasing number of LGU-led LAMP projects in adapting the technologies in the LAMP framework, other provinces have been inspired in emulating Bohol’s example and this could be quite helpful in the economic growth of the country in a much-wider scale hence improving financial security among the underprivileged especially in rural communities where security of tenure is very important.
The governor said that since Bohol is now apparently an investment destination and that LAMP1 and LAMP2’S impact are now distinctly felt and quite immeasurable, it is quite important for the provincial government to make use of proper land management by setting an example for the people to use their land wisely and efficiently with the maximum of benefits.
The success of projects LAMP1 and LAMP2 could, very possibly, now give rise to LAMP3, Chatto said, for undeniably, “both projects have not been wasted but instead, left an indelible imprint in the minds and hearts of the people. ”
With the inevitability of LAMP3, Gov. Chatto said that a bridging period would be very important for the continuity of the programs and that LGU officials should be made abreast of the growing and upcoming challenges “for the task has just begun.”
“Because of LAMP, visible reforms have been institutionalized and have provided LGUs easier access to revenue generation through fees and taxes making them recognize and acknowledge that in land valuation aspect, international standards are emphasized and adhered to as part of its strategic directions.
With LAMP 1 and 2, Bohol has been able to deliver beyond its targets through reform measures introduced in the program and Gov. Chatto is thanking all the men and women who brought LAMP to Bohol and assures them that “their efforts would never be wasted.”
“And, with Bohol’s overarching development framework being similar to LAMP’s aim of poverty reduction, there is no doubt that LAMP3, which, no doubt, would come into being shortly, would be zealously and passionately received by the people,” he said.
A three-man team from the Information Education Communication (IEC) of the Land Administration and Management II Project (LAMP2) from Manila came all the way to Bohol to have an up-close and personal interview with Gov. Edgar M. Chatto of Bohol Thursday.
Chatto faced the questions head on and, without batting an eyelash, told the IEC of the initiatives done by the Chatto-Lim Administration like the very careful attention it has given to priority programs and projects that have been started to make sure updating are thoroughly discussed to understand present situations and the next steps to be taken and the challenges to face to make sure that targets for the project are hit.
LAMP2 addresses the Philippine Government’s medium-term goals of the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act with social equity; and good governance, which serves the overarching national goal of the P-Noy Administration of poverty reduction and growth.
The development objectives of the project are to increase land tenure security and improve land administration services through the implementation of institutional and legal reform, the realization of an accelerated land titling program, and the establishment of a fair and uniform property valuation system. This is done through the development of national policies, a regulatory framework and reform of the institutional structure for land administration and management; issuance of titles in urban and rural areas; and the standardization of the land valuation system through the establishment of an efficient and fair property valuation system that meets international standards.
Chatto informed the IEC that the provincial government makes sure that streamlining of the LAMP2 project in Bohol is institutionalized making the distribution of land titles go about smoothly.
The “people’s governor” said that Bohol has reaped quite a number of benefits from LAMP2’s implementation that its impact is deeply-rooted in the hearts of the people and that it has helped a lot in the capacity building of the less-privileged and in revenue generation in terms of property taxes.
Now that Bohol has an increasing number of LGU-led LAMP projects in adapting the technologies in the LAMP framework, other provinces have been inspired in emulating Bohol’s example and this could be quite helpful in the economic growth of the country in a much-wider scale hence improving financial security among the underprivileged especially in rural communities where security of tenure is very important.
The governor said that since Bohol is now apparently an investment destination and that LAMP1 and LAMP2’S impact are now distinctly felt and quite immeasurable, it is quite important for the provincial government to make use of proper land management by setting an example for the people to use their land wisely and efficiently with the maximum of benefits.
The success of projects LAMP1 and LAMP2 could, very possibly, now give rise to LAMP3, Chatto said, for undeniably, “both projects have not been wasted but instead, left an indelible imprint in the minds and hearts of the people. ”
With the inevitability of LAMP3, Gov. Chatto said that a bridging period would be very important for the continuity of the programs and that LGU officials should be made abreast of the growing and upcoming challenges “for the task has just begun.”
“Because of LAMP, visible reforms have been institutionalized and have provided LGUs easier access to revenue generation through fees and taxes making them recognize and acknowledge that in land valuation aspect, international standards are emphasized and adhered to as part of its strategic directions.
With LAMP 1 and 2, Bohol has been able to deliver beyond its targets through reform measures introduced in the program and Gov. Chatto is thanking all the men and women who brought LAMP to Bohol and assures them that “their efforts would never be wasted.”
2011年5月25日 星期三
Most of the PAR46 lamps have fairly short life hours
Designed to be compatible with standard Par46 light fixtures like those used in spotlights and vehicles, the Magnalight LED40W-PAR46 bulb allows users to upgrade existing Par46 fixtures to powerful and long lived LEDs simply by changing lamps. Producing 3,600 lumens of light while drawing only 40 watts at less than 4 amps, this LED lamp produces more light than comparable 100 watt incandescent bulbs while using less than half as many amps. Available in red, green, blue, white and amber colors as well as 850Nm and 940Nm infrared, this LED lamp can be configured to operate with either 9-50VDC or 110-220VAC electrical power. This wide ranging choice of power options gives this LED lamp a versatility that incandescent lamps simply cannot match without additional hardware and expense. Mil-Spec 461 certified for EMI, this lamp also carries Army part # #12543890, signifying compatibility with military spec Par46 equipment. Contained within the aluminum body of this unit are four, 10 watt LEDs producing 900 lumens each for a total of 3,600 lumens of light power at 90 lumens per watt. For comparison, the typical high end incandescent halogen can only muster at best around 25-30 lumens per watt. The LEDs are protected by a polycarbonate lens that resists damage from impacts and vibrations, helping to give this lamp excellent durability and ruggedness characteristics. The 6 inch diameter of this LED light and its Par46 design allows it to easily replace the incandescent lamps used in spotlights, military vehicles, boats and other applications where Par46 design standards are utilized. Available in several colors including 850Nm and 940Nm infrared, this LED lamp in infrared configuration is also an ideal choice for upgrading night vision support equipment used in military and law enforcement operations.
“Our new PAR46 LED sealed beam bulb is ideally suited as a modern replacement for PAR46 sealed beam bulbs popular in post mount spotlights, vehicle headlights, aircraft landing lights and a variety of other 12 and 24 volt applications,” said Rob Bresnahan with Larson Electronics' magnalight.com. “Most of the PAR46 lamps have fairly short life hours, even with the HIR envelope. I think the GE H7635 offers 300 life hours and that is as good as it gets. With our LED40W-PAR46, we offer 50,000 plus life hours with a better flood and spotlight output than conventional sealed beam lamps. Moreover, we offer color LED and infrared options for covert military use. For years, we have been making infrared band pass lens covers for HID and halogen lighting. Now we can generate the specific infrared bandwidth from the LED package, instead of blocking out a lot of the light energy from visible light sources.”
“Our new PAR46 LED sealed beam bulb is ideally suited as a modern replacement for PAR46 sealed beam bulbs popular in post mount spotlights, vehicle headlights, aircraft landing lights and a variety of other 12 and 24 volt applications,” said Rob Bresnahan with Larson Electronics' magnalight.com. “Most of the PAR46 lamps have fairly short life hours, even with the HIR envelope. I think the GE H7635 offers 300 life hours and that is as good as it gets. With our LED40W-PAR46, we offer 50,000 plus life hours with a better flood and spotlight output than conventional sealed beam lamps. Moreover, we offer color LED and infrared options for covert military use. For years, we have been making infrared band pass lens covers for HID and halogen lighting. Now we can generate the specific infrared bandwidth from the LED package, instead of blocking out a lot of the light energy from visible light sources.”
LED DLP Offers 60,000 Hours of Maintenance-Free Service
a global leader in visual display solutions, today extended its acclaimed Mirage Series projector line with the launch of the Christie Mirage WU-L, whose innovative, solid-state LED light engine offers years of worry-free operation without compromising image quality.
The Christie Mirage WU-L delivers high resolution and rich pixel density, as well as continuous system calibration, in a small footprint unit capable of advanced 2D-3D visualizations. Targeted to the professional market, the Christie Mirage WU-L is suitable for everything from entertainment, to museums and education, scientific research, manufacturing, and oil and gas exploration facilities.
The 1-chip DLP® with RGB LED is the first Mirage Series projector to use solid-state LED illumination, providing precise, lifelike, vibrant colors and consistent performance over an estimated 60,000-hours (approximately 6.5 years) life cycle.
“The Christie Mirage WU-L is an ideal solution for visualization professionals whose prime concern is the minimization of servicing and maintenance costs,” said Larry Paul, senior director of technology and visualization solutions management, Visual Environments, Christie. “The Mirage WU-L is lamp-free and the LED-based light engine is sealed, which eliminates any need for filters. No lamps also mean no restrictions on positioning, which really opens up mounting options.”
The LED light engine also reduces heat and energy consumption. When combined with the absence of consumables like lamps and filters, and full compliance with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive, the Christie Mirage WU-L is destined to be a hit with customers worldwide who are looking to meet eco-friendly targets with their facilities.
Advanced Christie Twist Warping and Edge Blending Capabilities Included
The advanced warping and edge-blending capabilities of Christie Twist™ II is standard on the Christie Mirage WU-L, providing extra flexibility, control and set-up ease without incurring additional set-up costs. The light engine’s embedded Christie ArrayLOC™ feature ensures automatic color and brightness management, reducing the need for recalibrations.
The WUXGA (1920 x 1200) resolution Christie Mirage WU-L offers dual input 3D mode for passive to active conversion, maintaining the highest performance 3D video content at 120Hz. The unit also supports frame-doubled 3D content from 48-60Hz per eye. Rated at 600 ANSI lumens, the Christie Mirage WU-L provides up to 1400:1 contrast ratio full on/full off. The Mirage WU-L operates off the exclusive Christie KoRE™ electronics and firmware platform, which provides the most extensive level of input capability and control flexibility available for advanced visualizations systems.
“This product reflects the future of high-end data projection, with Christie engineers delivering a solution with an extraordinarily long life and 24/7 reliability, while meeting the demanding levels of performance quality that customers expect from Christie products,” added Paul.
The Christie Mirage WU-L delivers high resolution and rich pixel density, as well as continuous system calibration, in a small footprint unit capable of advanced 2D-3D visualizations. Targeted to the professional market, the Christie Mirage WU-L is suitable for everything from entertainment, to museums and education, scientific research, manufacturing, and oil and gas exploration facilities.
The 1-chip DLP® with RGB LED is the first Mirage Series projector to use solid-state LED illumination, providing precise, lifelike, vibrant colors and consistent performance over an estimated 60,000-hours (approximately 6.5 years) life cycle.
“The Christie Mirage WU-L is an ideal solution for visualization professionals whose prime concern is the minimization of servicing and maintenance costs,” said Larry Paul, senior director of technology and visualization solutions management, Visual Environments, Christie. “The Mirage WU-L is lamp-free and the LED-based light engine is sealed, which eliminates any need for filters. No lamps also mean no restrictions on positioning, which really opens up mounting options.”
The LED light engine also reduces heat and energy consumption. When combined with the absence of consumables like lamps and filters, and full compliance with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive, the Christie Mirage WU-L is destined to be a hit with customers worldwide who are looking to meet eco-friendly targets with their facilities.
Advanced Christie Twist Warping and Edge Blending Capabilities Included
The advanced warping and edge-blending capabilities of Christie Twist™ II is standard on the Christie Mirage WU-L, providing extra flexibility, control and set-up ease without incurring additional set-up costs. The light engine’s embedded Christie ArrayLOC™ feature ensures automatic color and brightness management, reducing the need for recalibrations.
The WUXGA (1920 x 1200) resolution Christie Mirage WU-L offers dual input 3D mode for passive to active conversion, maintaining the highest performance 3D video content at 120Hz. The unit also supports frame-doubled 3D content from 48-60Hz per eye. Rated at 600 ANSI lumens, the Christie Mirage WU-L provides up to 1400:1 contrast ratio full on/full off. The Mirage WU-L operates off the exclusive Christie KoRE™ electronics and firmware platform, which provides the most extensive level of input capability and control flexibility available for advanced visualizations systems.
“This product reflects the future of high-end data projection, with Christie engineers delivering a solution with an extraordinarily long life and 24/7 reliability, while meeting the demanding levels of performance quality that customers expect from Christie products,” added Paul.
2011年5月22日 星期日
VVES Receives Donation For iPad, Projector
Kids in teacher Terri Billingsley’s kindergarten class at Virgin Valley Elementary School will have a chance to use some advanced learning tools thanks to a recent donation.
The Nevada Public Education Foundation and Wells Fargo Bank have provided funding for an audio visual system that includes an interactive whiteboard, an iPad, an LCD projector, and a projector cart.
“As you know, schools are increasingly in need of classroom materials due to a variety of factors that are dramatically affecting our economy,” Billingsley said in an e-mail announcing the donation. “While all of us are susceptible to hard times, children are at the most risk. In today’s harsh economic times the classroom may be the only stabilizing factor for some children. With the generous support of the Nevada Public Education Foundation and Wells Fargo Bank, we were able provide a classroom full of fun and interactive learning activities that children look forward to.”
The interactive lessons taught using the audio visual equipment provide students with lessons that engage them in math and technology activities.
“Thank you the Nevada Public Education Foundation and Wells Fargo Bank for caring about providing the funding for this wonderful kindergarten classroom addition,” Billingsley said. “The children love it and so do the staff.”
The Nevada Public Education Foundation and Wells Fargo Bank have provided funding for an audio visual system that includes an interactive whiteboard, an iPad, an LCD projector, and a projector cart.
“As you know, schools are increasingly in need of classroom materials due to a variety of factors that are dramatically affecting our economy,” Billingsley said in an e-mail announcing the donation. “While all of us are susceptible to hard times, children are at the most risk. In today’s harsh economic times the classroom may be the only stabilizing factor for some children. With the generous support of the Nevada Public Education Foundation and Wells Fargo Bank, we were able provide a classroom full of fun and interactive learning activities that children look forward to.”
The interactive lessons taught using the audio visual equipment provide students with lessons that engage them in math and technology activities.
“Thank you the Nevada Public Education Foundation and Wells Fargo Bank for caring about providing the funding for this wonderful kindergarten classroom addition,” Billingsley said. “The children love it and so do the staff.”
Come June, stars will shine in city planetarium again
PUNE: Here's good news for astronomy enthusiasts in the city. After almost seven years, the planetarium housed in the New English School on Tilak Road is set to open its doors again by June this year.
Once considered to be the first planetarium set up in Asia, the facility has been non-functional since 2004. Due to technical difficulties and damages to the machine, the dome remained closed. Now, the machines have been repaired even as the dome is being re-painted and push-back chairs have been installed.
Rs 1 crore will be required for the entire renovation project. "By December, the planetarium will be complete with all latest facilities. However, the facility will start functioning by June, offering access to students and astronomy groups," said Ajit Patwardhan, chairman of Deccan Education Society, which runs the planetarium. The New English School has appointed eminent astronomer and member of the fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, London, Parag Mahajani, as consultant. Mahajani has been instrumental in getting the projectors repaired and bring back the planetarium to life.
The projector installed at the planetarium was imported from Philadelphia in the mid-50s. It was a manually-operated machine. In 2004, the projector started malfunctioning and eventually it had to be shut down. Efforts were made to repair the machine, but in vain. "Recently, we consulted with Mahajani who took a look at it and decided to get it repaired. Two trials were taken after the repairing work was done and now the machine is doing great and is completely operational. Now we could run the planetarium once again," said, Dilip Kotibhaskar, chairman of the planetarium.
A minimum of 100-seat capacity planetarium will be ready and a telescope which is at least 100 years ago will also be installed, even as sky watching sessions will be resumed. The planetarium was established in 1954, which was first-of-its-kind in Asia those days. "The projector matched to those in America in those days and was bought at Rs 50,000. The projectors available now are different and they are priced over Rs 55 lakh. However, Mahajani, who is the consultant to Nehru Planetarium in Mumbai, is of the opinion that the clarity of this projector is brilliant and therefore, we decided to get it repaired."
Several international scientists have shown interest in visiting the planetarium once it gets functional for the quality of projection that is possible with the projector. Several topics on astronomy will be covered at this planetarium once it runs full-fledged, Kotibhaskar said.
Home to the renowned Inter University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (Iucaa) and the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA) and numerous astronomy clubs, the city understandably has a huge appetite for astronomy, and over the years this has only witnessed a rise. The one thing that was missing was a planetarium, which the city is set to get.
Once considered to be the first planetarium set up in Asia, the facility has been non-functional since 2004. Due to technical difficulties and damages to the machine, the dome remained closed. Now, the machines have been repaired even as the dome is being re-painted and push-back chairs have been installed.
Rs 1 crore will be required for the entire renovation project. "By December, the planetarium will be complete with all latest facilities. However, the facility will start functioning by June, offering access to students and astronomy groups," said Ajit Patwardhan, chairman of Deccan Education Society, which runs the planetarium. The New English School has appointed eminent astronomer and member of the fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, London, Parag Mahajani, as consultant. Mahajani has been instrumental in getting the projectors repaired and bring back the planetarium to life.
The projector installed at the planetarium was imported from Philadelphia in the mid-50s. It was a manually-operated machine. In 2004, the projector started malfunctioning and eventually it had to be shut down. Efforts were made to repair the machine, but in vain. "Recently, we consulted with Mahajani who took a look at it and decided to get it repaired. Two trials were taken after the repairing work was done and now the machine is doing great and is completely operational. Now we could run the planetarium once again," said, Dilip Kotibhaskar, chairman of the planetarium.
A minimum of 100-seat capacity planetarium will be ready and a telescope which is at least 100 years ago will also be installed, even as sky watching sessions will be resumed. The planetarium was established in 1954, which was first-of-its-kind in Asia those days. "The projector matched to those in America in those days and was bought at Rs 50,000. The projectors available now are different and they are priced over Rs 55 lakh. However, Mahajani, who is the consultant to Nehru Planetarium in Mumbai, is of the opinion that the clarity of this projector is brilliant and therefore, we decided to get it repaired."
Several international scientists have shown interest in visiting the planetarium once it gets functional for the quality of projection that is possible with the projector. Several topics on astronomy will be covered at this planetarium once it runs full-fledged, Kotibhaskar said.
Home to the renowned Inter University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (Iucaa) and the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA) and numerous astronomy clubs, the city understandably has a huge appetite for astronomy, and over the years this has only witnessed a rise. The one thing that was missing was a planetarium, which the city is set to get.
2011年5月18日 星期三
Canon introduces six new LCD projectors, including the WUX4000 supporting use of interchangeable lenses
Canon Inc. and Canon Marketing Japan Inc. announced today the introduction in Japan of six new multimedia Power Projectors: the WUX4000 installation projector, which incorporates LCOS and AISYS technologies to deliver high-resolution WUXGA images with up to 4000 lm (lumens) of brightness, and the LCD-model LV-7490, LV-7390, LV-7295, LV-7290 and LV-8225. The companies also announced three new interchangeable projector lenses - a standard zoom lens, a fixed short focus lens and a telephoto lens - for use with the WUX4000, the first Canon LCOS-model projector to support the use of interchangeable projector lenses.
[Power Projector WUX4000]
The new Canon WUX4000 projector offers flexibility for a range of installation environments and projection needs. Depending on the installation environment, users are able to select from three interchangeable lenses: a 1.3-9.6 m standard zoom lens, a 0.7-5.2 m fixed short focus lens and a 1.9-14.2 m telephoto zoom lens. Compared with the standard zoom lens, the telephoto zoom lens produces the same level of brightness, while the fixed short focus lens effectively minimizes brightness loss.
Featuring LCOS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) technology, the WUX4000 projector delivers high-resolution WUXGA (1,920 x 1,200 pixels) performance - a level surpassing that of full HD. The new model also incorporates Canon's proprietary AISYS (Aspectual Illumination System) technology, which precisely controls light for bright, high-contrast projection images. During Presentation Mode, the device makes possible a brightness of 4,000 lm with a high 1,000:1 contrast ratio.
Delivering increased maintenance ease, the new Canon WUX4000 allows consumable parts to be easily replaced, without having to remove ceiling-mounted projectors. Further contributing to maintenance ease, in addition to the model's replaceable lamp and air filter, the optical filter element can now also be replaced, making possible high-quality image performance for an extended period of time.
The horizontal/vertical motorized Lens Shift function allows users to easily adjust the angle of projection left, right, up or down with the use of a remote control, without having to alter installation positioning. In addition, the projector's DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) Simulation Mode enables the display of such medical images as X-rays with precise detail.
The WUX4000's advanced color management system features a newly developed color processing IC chip, which includes 6-Axis Color (RGBCMY) Adjustment enabling users to adjust not only hue and saturation but also brightness, as well as a new 3D-LUT (Look Up Table) for even more precise color selection. These functions contribute to even richer representation of middle tones, as well as improved color reproduction and adjustment accuracy.
The new Canon Power Projectors LV-7490, LV-7390, LV-7295 and LV-7290 deliver XGA-resolution (1,024 x 768 pixels) images, while the LV-8225 offers WXGA-resolution (1,280 x 768 pixels) performance. The new lineup of portable LCD projectors each offer a different brightness level, allowing users to select the ideal projector depending on such factors as projection screen size and environment brightness. The LV-7490, LV-7390, LV-7295, LV-7290 and LV-8225 each achieve a brightness level of 4,000 lm, 3,000 lm, 2,600 lm, 2,200 lm and 2,500 lm, respectively.
Four of the five new LV-series projectors achieve up to approximately 6,000 hours of lamp life and feature an air filter that can be utilized for approximately 5,500 hours, reducing time and effort for maintenance, as well as contributing to effective resource utilization. The LV-7490 includes an Intelligent Lamp Control System that automatically adjusts the amount of power used according to the displayed image, contributing to reduced power usage. In addition, all five new projectors support the connection of a microphone for use in locations without a sound system, such as classrooms or meeting rooms, and include a ten-watt high-output built-in speaker for powerful audio during presentations with sound accompaniment.
[Power Projector WUX4000]
The new Canon WUX4000 projector offers flexibility for a range of installation environments and projection needs. Depending on the installation environment, users are able to select from three interchangeable lenses: a 1.3-9.6 m standard zoom lens, a 0.7-5.2 m fixed short focus lens and a 1.9-14.2 m telephoto zoom lens. Compared with the standard zoom lens, the telephoto zoom lens produces the same level of brightness, while the fixed short focus lens effectively minimizes brightness loss.
Featuring LCOS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) technology, the WUX4000 projector delivers high-resolution WUXGA (1,920 x 1,200 pixels) performance - a level surpassing that of full HD. The new model also incorporates Canon's proprietary AISYS (Aspectual Illumination System) technology, which precisely controls light for bright, high-contrast projection images. During Presentation Mode, the device makes possible a brightness of 4,000 lm with a high 1,000:1 contrast ratio.
Delivering increased maintenance ease, the new Canon WUX4000 allows consumable parts to be easily replaced, without having to remove ceiling-mounted projectors. Further contributing to maintenance ease, in addition to the model's replaceable lamp and air filter, the optical filter element can now also be replaced, making possible high-quality image performance for an extended period of time.
The horizontal/vertical motorized Lens Shift function allows users to easily adjust the angle of projection left, right, up or down with the use of a remote control, without having to alter installation positioning. In addition, the projector's DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) Simulation Mode enables the display of such medical images as X-rays with precise detail.
The WUX4000's advanced color management system features a newly developed color processing IC chip, which includes 6-Axis Color (RGBCMY) Adjustment enabling users to adjust not only hue and saturation but also brightness, as well as a new 3D-LUT (Look Up Table) for even more precise color selection. These functions contribute to even richer representation of middle tones, as well as improved color reproduction and adjustment accuracy.
The new Canon Power Projectors LV-7490, LV-7390, LV-7295 and LV-7290 deliver XGA-resolution (1,024 x 768 pixels) images, while the LV-8225 offers WXGA-resolution (1,280 x 768 pixels) performance. The new lineup of portable LCD projectors each offer a different brightness level, allowing users to select the ideal projector depending on such factors as projection screen size and environment brightness. The LV-7490, LV-7390, LV-7295, LV-7290 and LV-8225 each achieve a brightness level of 4,000 lm, 3,000 lm, 2,600 lm, 2,200 lm and 2,500 lm, respectively.
Four of the five new LV-series projectors achieve up to approximately 6,000 hours of lamp life and feature an air filter that can be utilized for approximately 5,500 hours, reducing time and effort for maintenance, as well as contributing to effective resource utilization. The LV-7490 includes an Intelligent Lamp Control System that automatically adjusts the amount of power used according to the displayed image, contributing to reduced power usage. In addition, all five new projectors support the connection of a microphone for use in locations without a sound system, such as classrooms or meeting rooms, and include a ten-watt high-output built-in speaker for powerful audio during presentations with sound accompaniment.
Super8 Projector Created From Lego (video)
If you like a little bit of retro film footage or have a few old Super8 reels of film you need to view but dont have a projector. You could always have a go at creating your very own Super8 projector from Lego.
This fully functional Super 8 Movie Projector was built using Lego Technic by Friedemann Wachsmuth. The only non-Lego parts within the whole Lego projector are the lens, the reel spindles and the lamp. Watch a video of the Super8 Projector in action after the jump.
Super8 Lego Projector
The projector uses just two engines and is fully featured with automatic feeding, 24 fps, fast rewind and 120m reel capabilities. Using a decent LED flashlight makes all the difference for an amazing projection show, according to its creator.
This fully functional Super 8 Movie Projector was built using Lego Technic by Friedemann Wachsmuth. The only non-Lego parts within the whole Lego projector are the lens, the reel spindles and the lamp. Watch a video of the Super8 Projector in action after the jump.
Super8 Lego Projector
The projector uses just two engines and is fully featured with automatic feeding, 24 fps, fast rewind and 120m reel capabilities. Using a decent LED flashlight makes all the difference for an amazing projection show, according to its creator.
2011年5月15日 星期日
Canon Launches Latest Series of LV Projectors
SINGAPORE - Canon today announces the launch of five new projector models (LV-7290, LV-7295, LV-7390, LV-7490 and LV-8225) in its ultra-portable LV series. Ranging from entry-level network-ready LV-7290 to the compact and powerful LV-7490 with 4000 lumens brightness, to the widescreen LV-8225 projector featuring native WXGA resolution, the new range contains a model suitable for every projection need.
All the 5 LV LCD multimedia projectors share several common features designed with both academic and business presentations in mind. The new projectors offer XGA resolution (except the LV-8225 which features native WXGA resolution) to provide sharp image detail and bright, clear projection in any location. Loaded with a wide-angle 1.2x zoom projection lens for crystal clear picture quality and a powerful 10W speaker, the new LV projector series promises to take the combined audio and visual experiences of every presentation to the next level.
Designed for greater ease of use, the latest LV projectors come with Auto Set-Up Functions for signal input, PC signal type, and vertical-keystone correction. At a push of a button, the projector automatically identifies the type of input signal (video or computer). For computer input, it automatically synchronises the projector’s display with the computer screen’s pixel configuration. Auto vertical-keystone “squares” images when the projector is facing the screen at an angle, enabling projection in awkward, space constrained areas.
Furthermore, multiple inputs consisting of various computer, video and audio connections ensure the LV projectors stay compatible with a wide range of display sources. Network connectivity is also possible with RJ-45 network and RS-232C serial connections. Other features include the customisable Logo function for users to load their own images like corporate logos for displaying in between presentations. In terms of maintenance and day-to-day usage, the new LV projectors come with an Easy-Install Lamp and Direct Power-On which are extremely convenient for ceiling mount projectors.
Last but not least, the devices have an extended lamp life of up to 6000 hours. Consumers will also appreciate the extended Air Filter life that lasts up to 5,500 hours in ECO Mode. Made of a new three-layer, highly efficient, hybrid material, the filter cleans the air drawn in by the internal fan that cools the projection fan. In terms of power consumption, the projectors consume less than 1W in standby mode. All of the models are also suitable for quiet environments due to their low noise levels, which are just 29dBA when in ‘Eco Mode’.
Customised Configurations for every Presentation
With a wide plethora of common features as highlighted above, the new Canon LV projectors’ series also provide additional capabilities designed for every user’s needs. With the growing popularity of widescreen notebook and desktop computers, the LV-8225 LCD projector is capable of delivering native WXGA-resolution (1280 x 800) for widescreen 16:10 images. Rated at 2600 lumens, this projector is designed for full-screen display of diagrams, spreadsheets and video, elements which are often included in educational presentations. Users conveniently avoid the need for image compression or other picture-distorting measures.
For those who need higher brightness due to bigger space or stronger ambient light, the new Canon LV-7490 LCD Projector provides the answer at 4000 lumens of brightness. With an XGA-resolution of 1024 x 768, this portable model is ideal for educational institutions where students can take notes without the need to darken the entire classroom.
All the 5 LV LCD multimedia projectors share several common features designed with both academic and business presentations in mind. The new projectors offer XGA resolution (except the LV-8225 which features native WXGA resolution) to provide sharp image detail and bright, clear projection in any location. Loaded with a wide-angle 1.2x zoom projection lens for crystal clear picture quality and a powerful 10W speaker, the new LV projector series promises to take the combined audio and visual experiences of every presentation to the next level.
Designed for greater ease of use, the latest LV projectors come with Auto Set-Up Functions for signal input, PC signal type, and vertical-keystone correction. At a push of a button, the projector automatically identifies the type of input signal (video or computer). For computer input, it automatically synchronises the projector’s display with the computer screen’s pixel configuration. Auto vertical-keystone “squares” images when the projector is facing the screen at an angle, enabling projection in awkward, space constrained areas.
Furthermore, multiple inputs consisting of various computer, video and audio connections ensure the LV projectors stay compatible with a wide range of display sources. Network connectivity is also possible with RJ-45 network and RS-232C serial connections. Other features include the customisable Logo function for users to load their own images like corporate logos for displaying in between presentations. In terms of maintenance and day-to-day usage, the new LV projectors come with an Easy-Install Lamp and Direct Power-On which are extremely convenient for ceiling mount projectors.
Last but not least, the devices have an extended lamp life of up to 6000 hours. Consumers will also appreciate the extended Air Filter life that lasts up to 5,500 hours in ECO Mode. Made of a new three-layer, highly efficient, hybrid material, the filter cleans the air drawn in by the internal fan that cools the projection fan. In terms of power consumption, the projectors consume less than 1W in standby mode. All of the models are also suitable for quiet environments due to their low noise levels, which are just 29dBA when in ‘Eco Mode’.
Customised Configurations for every Presentation
With a wide plethora of common features as highlighted above, the new Canon LV projectors’ series also provide additional capabilities designed for every user’s needs. With the growing popularity of widescreen notebook and desktop computers, the LV-8225 LCD projector is capable of delivering native WXGA-resolution (1280 x 800) for widescreen 16:10 images. Rated at 2600 lumens, this projector is designed for full-screen display of diagrams, spreadsheets and video, elements which are often included in educational presentations. Users conveniently avoid the need for image compression or other picture-distorting measures.
For those who need higher brightness due to bigger space or stronger ambient light, the new Canon LV-7490 LCD Projector provides the answer at 4000 lumens of brightness. With an XGA-resolution of 1024 x 768, this portable model is ideal for educational institutions where students can take notes without the need to darken the entire classroom.
Epson develops 'dust-proof' projectors
Epson has created two dust-proof projectors designed to make presenting in dusty or sandy locations trouble-free.
The EB-D6155W and EB-D6250 have an exhaust shutter system that automatically closes when the projectors are not in use, preventing dust, dirt or sand from getting in and causing damage. Their optical engines are also encased in glass to offer further protection against the elements.
Designed to withstand extreme conditions, Epson claims these robust projectors are ideal for organisations based in locations where dust and sand are a constant issue.
The company says the projectors are also suited to public displays in large enclosed spaces such as factories, clubs, arenas, schools, universities and churches.
The projectors' electrostatic filter can last up to 10,000 hours, while the E-TORL lamp gives up to 4,000 hours of light before needing to be replaced.
Both models also feature a high-performance 5W integrated speaker and come with an HDMI input for top-quality digital images and sound through a single cable.
The EB-D6155W delivers up to 3,500 lumens brightness and WXGA (1280 x 800) resolution, enhanced by 3LCD technology, for quality, widescreen images. The EB-D6250 has up to 4,000 lumens with XGA (1024 x 768) resolution.
The EB-D6155W and EB-D6250 have an exhaust shutter system that automatically closes when the projectors are not in use, preventing dust, dirt or sand from getting in and causing damage. Their optical engines are also encased in glass to offer further protection against the elements.
Designed to withstand extreme conditions, Epson claims these robust projectors are ideal for organisations based in locations where dust and sand are a constant issue.
The company says the projectors are also suited to public displays in large enclosed spaces such as factories, clubs, arenas, schools, universities and churches.
The projectors' electrostatic filter can last up to 10,000 hours, while the E-TORL lamp gives up to 4,000 hours of light before needing to be replaced.
Both models also feature a high-performance 5W integrated speaker and come with an HDMI input for top-quality digital images and sound through a single cable.
The EB-D6155W delivers up to 3,500 lumens brightness and WXGA (1280 x 800) resolution, enhanced by 3LCD technology, for quality, widescreen images. The EB-D6250 has up to 4,000 lumens with XGA (1024 x 768) resolution.
2011年5月11日 星期三
Playground ordeal: 'When will they learn?'
That was the question posed by Bukit Bandaraya Residents’ Association (RA) chairman Mumtaz Ali in response to The Malay Mail’s cover story yesterday exposing yet another neighbourhood playground besieged with hazardous elements – exposed cables, uncovered manholes and damaged lamp posts.
“This is very disturbing,” said Mumtaz.
“Only recently a boy died due to carelessness by the authorities. Have they not learnt from it? If something untoward were to happen again, the authorities will come up with all sorts of excuses."
Two months ago, Muhammad Naqiuddin, 11, was electrocuted to death when he grazed a lamp post at a playground in Taman Batu Tiga, Shah Alam.
Ravindran Raman Kutty
RAVINDRAN: Don't wait for disaster to happen
Mumtaz related his own experience with the incompetency of local authorities.
“I had to personally hound City Hall’s landscaping department to do something about overgrown grass and rusty park amenities in the two parks we have. I think they had grown bored of seeing my face all the time.
“Once I complained to a City Hall contractor that our park has not been swept and I was informed that they are only contracted to sweep once a month! This is ridiculous."
The Malay Mail exposure yesterday also revealed that the playground in Taman Bukit Maluri was a "sex haunt" for juvenile delinquents.
“We used to have the same problem; outsiders come to our parks to drink or make out. The next day the park would be littered with beer bottles,” said Mumtaz, adding the RA had taken the initiative to fence and lock up their park to stop the menace.
All Petaling Jaya Residents Association Coalition president Johan Tung Abdullah said in PJ, many parks have become meeting points for those who consume alcohol.
“This should not be allowed as playgrounds are not pubs. We are hopeful both the police and the PJ City Council will take quick action against this trend.”
Bandar Sri Damansara RA chairman Ravindran Raman Kutty said the authorities should not wait for disasters to happen and work with residents to resolve their issues.
“The authorities must work closely with the communities to help maintain and upkeep their neighbourhood.”
"The authorities alone cannot do it,” said Ravindran.
“This is very disturbing,” said Mumtaz.
“Only recently a boy died due to carelessness by the authorities. Have they not learnt from it? If something untoward were to happen again, the authorities will come up with all sorts of excuses."
Two months ago, Muhammad Naqiuddin, 11, was electrocuted to death when he grazed a lamp post at a playground in Taman Batu Tiga, Shah Alam.
Ravindran Raman Kutty
RAVINDRAN: Don't wait for disaster to happen
Mumtaz related his own experience with the incompetency of local authorities.
“I had to personally hound City Hall’s landscaping department to do something about overgrown grass and rusty park amenities in the two parks we have. I think they had grown bored of seeing my face all the time.
“Once I complained to a City Hall contractor that our park has not been swept and I was informed that they are only contracted to sweep once a month! This is ridiculous."
The Malay Mail exposure yesterday also revealed that the playground in Taman Bukit Maluri was a "sex haunt" for juvenile delinquents.
“We used to have the same problem; outsiders come to our parks to drink or make out. The next day the park would be littered with beer bottles,” said Mumtaz, adding the RA had taken the initiative to fence and lock up their park to stop the menace.
All Petaling Jaya Residents Association Coalition president Johan Tung Abdullah said in PJ, many parks have become meeting points for those who consume alcohol.
“This should not be allowed as playgrounds are not pubs. We are hopeful both the police and the PJ City Council will take quick action against this trend.”
Bandar Sri Damansara RA chairman Ravindran Raman Kutty said the authorities should not wait for disasters to happen and work with residents to resolve their issues.
“The authorities must work closely with the communities to help maintain and upkeep their neighbourhood.”
"The authorities alone cannot do it,” said Ravindran.
Mattson Technology, Inc. and Abakan, Inc. Announce Exclusive Supply Agreement
Abakan Inc. (OTCQB:ABKI) (“Abakan”) and Mattson Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:MTSN) today announced that Abakan’s subsidiary MesoCoat, Inc. has agreed to an Exclusive Supply Agreement with Mattson Technology that grants MesoCoat access to Mattson’s ultra-high-intensity Vortek® arc lamp system. MesoCoat will use the lamps, which generate an extremely high intensity of focused light, in the production of its high-performance nanocomposite cladding solutions for an estimated $3.8 billion1 worldwide metal cladding market.
“Mattson Technology produces one of the most powerful, high-quality arc lamps in the world. We will use these lamps to fuse our coating and cladding materials to steel pipe and other products, providing an incredibly strong and long-lasting product for industries that use steel in harsh environments,” said Abakan CEO Robert Miller. “Signing this agreement enables us to rapidly expand our business and bring our groundbreaking new technology to market in the shortest amount of time, with the lowest technical risk.”
The multi-year agreement contemplates that MesoCoat will annually purchase an escalating minimum number of Vortek arc lamps. The aggregate value of the purchases has the potential to exceed tens of millions of dollars over the term of the agreement, and includes a $2 million exclusivity fee. The agreement guarantees MesoCoat supply, support, and delivery schedules for the Vortek arc lamp.
“We are extremely pleased to be working with MesoCoat on this new, innovative coating solution, which represents a paradigm shift that brings high speed, performance and economy to such large critical markets,” said David Dutton, president and CEO of Mattson Technology. “Our Vortek arc lamp is one of the most powerful light sources in the world that has shown potential to enable greater efficiency in many emerging thermal process applications in the clean energy field. Our partnership with MesoCoat opens up a new opportunity in the energy market, which extends our business beyond our existing semiconductor equipment industry.”
The Mattson Technology Vortek arc lamp integrated with MesoCoat’s award-winning CermaClad™ process will allow continuous coating and cladding of layers of corrosion- and wear-resistant materials 20 to 30 centimeters (cm) wide, compared to widths of approximately 0.5 cm for lasers used in competing weld or laser cladding processes. This high-speed cladding process that is up to 100 times faster than current methods enables better metallurgical properties even at lower coating thicknesses. The speed of this technology ensures that the cladding process can now match the line speed of steel mills, dramatically reducing lead times by 75-80%2. MesoCoat estimates that this technology will enable the cladding market to double over the next three years to more than $7 billion.
About Abakan, Inc.:
Abakan, Inc. is a publicly traded company that invests in companies that have developed transformational technologies on the cusp of commercial applications. Miami based, Abakan is the largest shareholder in Powdermet and MesoCoat, each of which is an Ohio based nanotechnology material science company involved in technology development that has received numerous awards and grants. Powdermet is focused on metal formulations as well as advanced energy management solutions while MesoCoat is focused on the development of advanced coating solutions. Powdermet has won over 80 government-sponsored Phase 1, 2 and 3 grant programs since 1996 and MesoCoat is the recipient of three prestigious R&D 100 awards, a Technology Innovation Program Award (TIP) for 100 year life coatings by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and the NorTech Innovation Award for high performance environmentally friendly coating materials.
“Mattson Technology produces one of the most powerful, high-quality arc lamps in the world. We will use these lamps to fuse our coating and cladding materials to steel pipe and other products, providing an incredibly strong and long-lasting product for industries that use steel in harsh environments,” said Abakan CEO Robert Miller. “Signing this agreement enables us to rapidly expand our business and bring our groundbreaking new technology to market in the shortest amount of time, with the lowest technical risk.”
The multi-year agreement contemplates that MesoCoat will annually purchase an escalating minimum number of Vortek arc lamps. The aggregate value of the purchases has the potential to exceed tens of millions of dollars over the term of the agreement, and includes a $2 million exclusivity fee. The agreement guarantees MesoCoat supply, support, and delivery schedules for the Vortek arc lamp.
“We are extremely pleased to be working with MesoCoat on this new, innovative coating solution, which represents a paradigm shift that brings high speed, performance and economy to such large critical markets,” said David Dutton, president and CEO of Mattson Technology. “Our Vortek arc lamp is one of the most powerful light sources in the world that has shown potential to enable greater efficiency in many emerging thermal process applications in the clean energy field. Our partnership with MesoCoat opens up a new opportunity in the energy market, which extends our business beyond our existing semiconductor equipment industry.”
The Mattson Technology Vortek arc lamp integrated with MesoCoat’s award-winning CermaClad™ process will allow continuous coating and cladding of layers of corrosion- and wear-resistant materials 20 to 30 centimeters (cm) wide, compared to widths of approximately 0.5 cm for lasers used in competing weld or laser cladding processes. This high-speed cladding process that is up to 100 times faster than current methods enables better metallurgical properties even at lower coating thicknesses. The speed of this technology ensures that the cladding process can now match the line speed of steel mills, dramatically reducing lead times by 75-80%2. MesoCoat estimates that this technology will enable the cladding market to double over the next three years to more than $7 billion.
About Abakan, Inc.:
Abakan, Inc. is a publicly traded company that invests in companies that have developed transformational technologies on the cusp of commercial applications. Miami based, Abakan is the largest shareholder in Powdermet and MesoCoat, each of which is an Ohio based nanotechnology material science company involved in technology development that has received numerous awards and grants. Powdermet is focused on metal formulations as well as advanced energy management solutions while MesoCoat is focused on the development of advanced coating solutions. Powdermet has won over 80 government-sponsored Phase 1, 2 and 3 grant programs since 1996 and MesoCoat is the recipient of three prestigious R&D 100 awards, a Technology Innovation Program Award (TIP) for 100 year life coatings by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and the NorTech Innovation Award for high performance environmentally friendly coating materials.
USDA Researchers Shed Some Light on Produce Safety
Scientists with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) working at the Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Research Laboratory in Beltsville, Maryland, have developed and patented an advanced scanning system to be used in fresh produce packinghouses to detect certain kinds of exterior defects or contaminants.
According to an article published yesterday, May 10, 2011, by Marcia Wood, Public Affairs Specialist for ARS, the team of ARS scientists designed “an experimental, cutting-edge optical scanning system that would use two different kinds of lighting, a sophisticated camera and other pieces of equipment” in order to examine fresh produce for quality and safety before it even reaches the grocery store.
By experimenting with apples, the scientists found that the system would detect cuts and bruises on the surface of the fruit as well as trace amounts of fertilizer and soil particles. In describing the process, Wood wrote:
The team’s system harnesses the capabilities of a type of camera known as a high-speed multispectral/hyperspectral line-scanner. Positioned above a conveyor belt, the scanner captures images of each fast-moving item, such as an apple. Each apple is exposed simultaneously to ultra-violet light from a UV fluorescent lamp and near infra-red light from a halogen lamp. The near infra-red light that bounces off the apple can be captured by an instrument known as a spectrograph and analyzed for tell-tale patterns of defects, while the UV light beamed on the apple can disclose the whereabouts of contaminants.
The system combines information from both forms of illumination into a single image with contaminant and defect results. When linked to a sorting machine, the system can signal the sorter to separate the problem apples from others.
Moon S. Kim, a biophysicist working on the project, explained that he and his team have been refining this system for the past few years. Their preliminary research was published in 2008, and, in 2010, Kim, along with engineers Yud-Ren Chen, Kuanglin (Kevin) Chao, and Alan M. Lefcourt received a patent for the system.
Currently, the scanning technology is limited to a 180-degree view of the produce item’s surface; however, Kim and his colleagues are hopeful that they will further improve the process to provide a complete 360-degree view, allowing produce packers to perform a thorough inspection for quality and safety.
According to an article published yesterday, May 10, 2011, by Marcia Wood, Public Affairs Specialist for ARS, the team of ARS scientists designed “an experimental, cutting-edge optical scanning system that would use two different kinds of lighting, a sophisticated camera and other pieces of equipment” in order to examine fresh produce for quality and safety before it even reaches the grocery store.
By experimenting with apples, the scientists found that the system would detect cuts and bruises on the surface of the fruit as well as trace amounts of fertilizer and soil particles. In describing the process, Wood wrote:
The team’s system harnesses the capabilities of a type of camera known as a high-speed multispectral/hyperspectral line-scanner. Positioned above a conveyor belt, the scanner captures images of each fast-moving item, such as an apple. Each apple is exposed simultaneously to ultra-violet light from a UV fluorescent lamp and near infra-red light from a halogen lamp. The near infra-red light that bounces off the apple can be captured by an instrument known as a spectrograph and analyzed for tell-tale patterns of defects, while the UV light beamed on the apple can disclose the whereabouts of contaminants.
The system combines information from both forms of illumination into a single image with contaminant and defect results. When linked to a sorting machine, the system can signal the sorter to separate the problem apples from others.
Moon S. Kim, a biophysicist working on the project, explained that he and his team have been refining this system for the past few years. Their preliminary research was published in 2008, and, in 2010, Kim, along with engineers Yud-Ren Chen, Kuanglin (Kevin) Chao, and Alan M. Lefcourt received a patent for the system.
Currently, the scanning technology is limited to a 180-degree view of the produce item’s surface; however, Kim and his colleagues are hopeful that they will further improve the process to provide a complete 360-degree view, allowing produce packers to perform a thorough inspection for quality and safety.
TCP Expands Residential LED Lamp Product Line
TCP is expanding their residential LED lamp series with products that feature a powerful combination of category-leading performance, functionality, and value. These exciting new products further enhance TCP's already comprehensive line-up of energy efficient lighting and help lead the way to a smooth transition away from inefficient incandescent light bulbs, with the advent of the new 2012 E.I.S.A. regulations.
By combining TCP's cutting-edge ballast design technology, optical design and manufacturing capability - plus the world's leading LED chip components, TCP's newest LED lamps provide the industry's best directional light output performance, making them excellent alternatives to traditional PAR halogens. All of TCP's new LED lamps dim uniformly down to 0%, with no color-shifting effects, hum or annoying "flicker". TCP LED lamps also use the highest-quality lamp optics, which are computer designed and precision manufactured for perfect directional light beam control, with no annoying "hot spots" or beam washout effects.
"Our strategy is to introduce high performance LED lamps that will meet or exceed the US EPA's ENERGY STAR® specifications at a value price. As the leader in energy efficient lighting, TCP is committed to providing a robust, high quality LED lighting product offering," said Jim Connolly, TCP's Senior Vice President of Retail Sales.
TCP's new LED lamps include directional lighting applications, including PAR20, PAR30, PAR38 lamps, all available in either narrow flood (25 degree) and flood (40 degree) beam spreads. These lamps exceed the latest ENERGY STAR LED lamp lumen requirements, and outperform comparable halogen directional lamps. These lamps are perfect for a wide variety of general lighting applications including track and recessed lighting.
TCP has also added several specialty LED MR16 spot and flood lamps, which feature excellent lumen output, long life and cooler operating performance. Available in 4.4 watt rating with 15-degree and 30-degree beam options, these products are perfect for small fixtures, pendant lights and display lighting applications.
TCP is also expanding its previously released line of LEDs including torpedo (clear and crystal cut), flame, globes, and A-lamps, now available in both clear and frosted versions. These fully-dimmable lamps feature a 360-degree filament-style light output, which gives the lamp brilliant light output. These lamps are perfect energy efficient replacements for halogen and incandescent lamps in many specialty installations, such as accent and decorative lighting, chandeliers, ceiling fans, and indoor and outdoor fixtures.
By combining TCP's cutting-edge ballast design technology, optical design and manufacturing capability - plus the world's leading LED chip components, TCP's newest LED lamps provide the industry's best directional light output performance, making them excellent alternatives to traditional PAR halogens. All of TCP's new LED lamps dim uniformly down to 0%, with no color-shifting effects, hum or annoying "flicker". TCP LED lamps also use the highest-quality lamp optics, which are computer designed and precision manufactured for perfect directional light beam control, with no annoying "hot spots" or beam washout effects.
"Our strategy is to introduce high performance LED lamps that will meet or exceed the US EPA's ENERGY STAR® specifications at a value price. As the leader in energy efficient lighting, TCP is committed to providing a robust, high quality LED lighting product offering," said Jim Connolly, TCP's Senior Vice President of Retail Sales.
TCP's new LED lamps include directional lighting applications, including PAR20, PAR30, PAR38 lamps, all available in either narrow flood (25 degree) and flood (40 degree) beam spreads. These lamps exceed the latest ENERGY STAR LED lamp lumen requirements, and outperform comparable halogen directional lamps. These lamps are perfect for a wide variety of general lighting applications including track and recessed lighting.
TCP has also added several specialty LED MR16 spot and flood lamps, which feature excellent lumen output, long life and cooler operating performance. Available in 4.4 watt rating with 15-degree and 30-degree beam options, these products are perfect for small fixtures, pendant lights and display lighting applications.
TCP is also expanding its previously released line of LEDs including torpedo (clear and crystal cut), flame, globes, and A-lamps, now available in both clear and frosted versions. These fully-dimmable lamps feature a 360-degree filament-style light output, which gives the lamp brilliant light output. These lamps are perfect energy efficient replacements for halogen and incandescent lamps in many specialty installations, such as accent and decorative lighting, chandeliers, ceiling fans, and indoor and outdoor fixtures.
Projector Lamps Expand to 3D Technology
3D used to be a special treat at the movie theater as we all entered in, fully accessorized in our paper glasses, ready to be amazed. Today, 3D is dominating the movie screen, entering homes on televisions and even capturing young minds in hand-held game systems. To enjoy such viewing, special projectors and projector lamps are necessary, and because they offer somewhat different innovations, they can also be more expensive.
This technology and associated projector lamps were explored in this Hidden Wires blog as the author examined opportunities, concerns, technology and more that is involved with 3D viewing. The main concern expressed was a lack of understanding among manufacturers who may be trying to develop 3D components, without fully understanding the technology and all that is involved.
In terms of projector lamps, there are two broad groups of projector technology that provide 3D imaging: passive and active. Passive technology uses various methods to filter the different images to the left and right eye. Common filter methods can include circular and linear polarization, as well as light interference filters.
Active technology for use with projector lamps relies on electronic glasses that will “actively” interact with the display. The display makes use of alternative frame sequencing to present alternative images to the left and right eye. To block or pass light through to each eye, liquid crystal shutter glasses are used. This process occurs in synchronization with the alternate images from the display.
When dealing with projection technology and projector lamps, the suitability for different applications is more pronounced between the passive and active systems. Commercial cinemas tend to use passive projection systems as the focus on cheap glasses take priority and polarized glasses cost mere pennies.
The projection systems that use these glasses are expensive, however, and do require special silver projection screens to preserve the polarization. All of the passive systems that are presented to consumers today use a dual-projection system which effectively doubles the cost to the consumer when compared with an equivalent 2D system.
The consumer environment is more likely to see active systems as they use one projector to present alternative images to each eye. And, because the projector and the projector lamp must do twice the work, premium processing technology is required. The good news is that the higher-quality projector systems that are available today require few add-ons, other than programming and synchronization with the transmitter to enable 3D use.
This technology and associated projector lamps were explored in this Hidden Wires blog as the author examined opportunities, concerns, technology and more that is involved with 3D viewing. The main concern expressed was a lack of understanding among manufacturers who may be trying to develop 3D components, without fully understanding the technology and all that is involved.
In terms of projector lamps, there are two broad groups of projector technology that provide 3D imaging: passive and active. Passive technology uses various methods to filter the different images to the left and right eye. Common filter methods can include circular and linear polarization, as well as light interference filters.
Active technology for use with projector lamps relies on electronic glasses that will “actively” interact with the display. The display makes use of alternative frame sequencing to present alternative images to the left and right eye. To block or pass light through to each eye, liquid crystal shutter glasses are used. This process occurs in synchronization with the alternate images from the display.
When dealing with projection technology and projector lamps, the suitability for different applications is more pronounced between the passive and active systems. Commercial cinemas tend to use passive projection systems as the focus on cheap glasses take priority and polarized glasses cost mere pennies.
The projection systems that use these glasses are expensive, however, and do require special silver projection screens to preserve the polarization. All of the passive systems that are presented to consumers today use a dual-projection system which effectively doubles the cost to the consumer when compared with an equivalent 2D system.
The consumer environment is more likely to see active systems as they use one projector to present alternative images to each eye. And, because the projector and the projector lamp must do twice the work, premium processing technology is required. The good news is that the higher-quality projector systems that are available today require few add-ons, other than programming and synchronization with the transmitter to enable 3D use.
2011年5月8日 星期日
Hot-desking and cool lighting
(This new column will feature different workplaces and capture their culture, the quirks and eccentricities that make different offices unique. While it will talk about office design and what makes them special, this column will also capture the spirit behind what makes these workplaces tick and hum.)
A warmly lit, spacious reception with plants greets you as you walk into Philips India's Gurgaon office on the ninth floor of DLF Cyber city. Some nifty spotlighting draws the visitor's attention to the funky LED lamps displayed on one wall and to the household appliances exhibited behind the seating area.
The fancy, intelligent lighting — that dim when a space empties out — is only what you would expect at the India headquarters of the Rs 4,000-crore-plus lighting to consumer electronics major. What's unexpected is the free seating concept. No employee can grow roots at his or her workstation.
“It's first come, first served seating — and anybody can sit anywhere,” explains Moushumi Dutt, head, corporate communication, who is my guide around the 92,500 sq ft office spread over two floors. When she sees me raising my eyebrows at her casual attire — jeans, T-shirt and sneakers — she grins, explaining: “Oh, it's not my usual work clothes — it's Friday dressing, you will find the whole office in casuals today.”
Moving to the left of the reception, past a small café area, on to the open hall beyond where rows of staffers are busy working at smart tables, one thing leaps out at the visitor — the complete absence of clutter. No papers or files lying about. In fact, the tables do not have drawers. The storage cluster is located elsewhere with employees given lockers to put away their stuff.
“Every day, when we finish work, we have to clean out the desk we used and log out of the phones so that the next person occupying it finds a clean workstation,” says Amit Tiwari, General Manager, Media.
Completely Wi-Fi enabled, laptops can be plugged in anywhere in the office, and any phone can be made an employee's extension number by punching in a password on the handset.
Team leaders get semi-enclosed spaces, while functional heads get cabins — but the minute they go out on meetings or tours, the cabin ceases to be their domain. “I cannot call this my room — it's one of the workplaces available to me,” explains Vivek Sharma, Head, Marketing, Vice-President, India subcontinent. “You will notice that there are no family pictures and personal memorabilia here,” he says, as he waves his hand around his cabin and his gaze falls on the Ganesha idol he has placed there.
It's a concept known as hot-desking in the West. The idea behind the concept is to encourage anytime, anywhere work and discourage possessiveness. Also, the assumption that Philips made when designing the Gurgaon office — which incidentally was a global pilot for the Dutch firm's workplace innovation programme — was that 25 per cent of the workforce would be out of office at any given time, so it could save on creating excess work space. About 400 employees are stationed here, but the place can accommodate up to 500.
According to Dutt, the free flowing design — stemming from Philips' brand promise of sense and simplicity — is also designed to remove hierarchical barriers. “I would be angry if anybody calls me Sir,” says Sharma pointing out how the work culture is informal, yet respectful.
Musical chairs — does it work?
But, isn't it unnerving to have to hunt for a seat each morning? “Oh, there is no hunting involved — there are enough and more places available,” says Tiwari. He says for him, the advantage with this design is that it encourages cross-functional interaction. Pointing to his own role — he is into media planning and buying — he says, how on the days he has to work with the marketing intelligence or research team, he can plan ahead and fix up seating with them. “In this office, we have people from three sectors — lighting, consumer electronics and healthcare — now people from all three sectors or different functional roles often sit together,” he adds.
What about the downsides? How much time did it take for older employees to adapt to this new design (this office became functional in 2009). “Oh, every organisation has some people who are resistant to change. And then, there will be some with bad work ethics or manners who will try and bag the best place or leave a workstation untidy,” says Tiwari, brushing these aside as inconsequential problems.
Also, Tiwari points out how the quantum of work could decide his seating for the day. “If I have a lot of work to finish without disturbance and distraction, I could choose to use the touchdown room,” he says.
Touchdown rooms are little cubby holes with a single desk and chair, in hidden corners of the office where staffers can lock themselves in. Conversely, on days with lighter schedules, employees can hang out in the break out zones (there are a good many of those) or the fun room.
The fun room is a cheerily furnished room — decorated by the employees themselves — with a variety of games from caroms to Monopoly and chessboards. “Although it is mostly play here, some of our most creative brainstorming sessions have also taken place here,” says Dutt, who also leads the Funaholics group of the office. This is a band of employee volunteers who organise fun events at the workplace around birthdays and special days such as Diwali or Christmas. “If you were here last Friday, you could have seen the Funkiest T-Shirt contest we held,” she says.
At the break out zones — some of these have bean bags, others lounge chairs, besides tea and coffee machines — a TV continuously streams Philips global happenings. “We hope that even as employees lounge around here, subconsciously, the news registers with them,” says Dutt.
At one of the breakout zones, there is a listening post — a cubicle with a computer and speakers. This is where staffers can get a live feel of what customers are saying about Philips' products. The call centre complaints that are recorded are constantly fed into this computer and by punching in a few keys, employees can listen in to the conversations and gain insights.
Holy Grails
Interestingly, there are some departments in the office that have fixed seating. The accounts department is housed in a closed access area — entry is through special swipe cards. Further down, the creative bunch — design professionals working on the next mixie shape or lamp silhouette — are housed in a large lab that is quite cluttered. Books piled up, memos pinned on the pinboard, arty posters near the door.
Employees also have the benefit of a fully equipped medical room and gym membership at the Gold Gym located downstairs in the Cybercity building. The bathrooms at the Philips office have shower and changing facilities, so staffers can pop in to the gym at any time during the day. “Hours are flexible here — and on occasion, one can even work from home,” says Dutt.
It is time for lunch and we troop into the sprawling cafeteria painted in cheerful red and white — the blinds are up and the glass wall affords a great view of Gurgaon. Everybody from the CEO down queues up for a meal here. There are two meal options — a light meal (minus dessert) for Rs 30 and a full meal for Rs 50. Besides, there are also sinful walnut cakes available at the deli – and bar stools at a side enclosure where you can chill out in the evenings. “I have been trying to do a wine and cheese evening here but can't get around the no liquor policy,” complains Vivek Sharma. As the others laugh at him, he says with mock seriousness. “Ogilvy says wine and creativity go together.”
“Our town hall meetings are held here — this hall also has projector facilities and doubles up a giant meeting room,” says Dutt. Occasionally dance parties are also held here — at the touch of a switch, the lighting can change to suit the occasion — soft and dim for parties, bright for meetings and so on.
As one heads out of the office, one can see some action at the large lounge near the reception. “This is the space we reserve for NGOs to organise collections from employees – for instance, Goonj collects old clothes from here. Or even card companies and insurance companies who want to make a pitch to employees can do it here,” says Dutt.
When it comes to offices, Philips has clearly seen the light!
HR SPEAK
Seems like a workplace that is “too good to be true”. So, you ask Yashwant Mahadik, Vice-President, HR, Philips India, how much a ‘feel good’ office contributes to worker productivity. Has it stopped attrition? “Our attrition numbers are far lower than the industry average,” he says. According to him, in the healthcare division, the rate is 5-6 per cent (8-10 per cent in the industry), while it is below 20 per cent in the durables division (25-30 per cent). He says Philips has innovated with a robust HR policy. “We do a lot of workforce planning — for instance, while charting out the company’s growth story, we also anticipate what might be the workforce requirement to manage this growth and how they can grow along with it,” he explains.
A warmly lit, spacious reception with plants greets you as you walk into Philips India's Gurgaon office on the ninth floor of DLF Cyber city. Some nifty spotlighting draws the visitor's attention to the funky LED lamps displayed on one wall and to the household appliances exhibited behind the seating area.
The fancy, intelligent lighting — that dim when a space empties out — is only what you would expect at the India headquarters of the Rs 4,000-crore-plus lighting to consumer electronics major. What's unexpected is the free seating concept. No employee can grow roots at his or her workstation.
“It's first come, first served seating — and anybody can sit anywhere,” explains Moushumi Dutt, head, corporate communication, who is my guide around the 92,500 sq ft office spread over two floors. When she sees me raising my eyebrows at her casual attire — jeans, T-shirt and sneakers — she grins, explaining: “Oh, it's not my usual work clothes — it's Friday dressing, you will find the whole office in casuals today.”
Moving to the left of the reception, past a small café area, on to the open hall beyond where rows of staffers are busy working at smart tables, one thing leaps out at the visitor — the complete absence of clutter. No papers or files lying about. In fact, the tables do not have drawers. The storage cluster is located elsewhere with employees given lockers to put away their stuff.
“Every day, when we finish work, we have to clean out the desk we used and log out of the phones so that the next person occupying it finds a clean workstation,” says Amit Tiwari, General Manager, Media.
Completely Wi-Fi enabled, laptops can be plugged in anywhere in the office, and any phone can be made an employee's extension number by punching in a password on the handset.
Team leaders get semi-enclosed spaces, while functional heads get cabins — but the minute they go out on meetings or tours, the cabin ceases to be their domain. “I cannot call this my room — it's one of the workplaces available to me,” explains Vivek Sharma, Head, Marketing, Vice-President, India subcontinent. “You will notice that there are no family pictures and personal memorabilia here,” he says, as he waves his hand around his cabin and his gaze falls on the Ganesha idol he has placed there.
It's a concept known as hot-desking in the West. The idea behind the concept is to encourage anytime, anywhere work and discourage possessiveness. Also, the assumption that Philips made when designing the Gurgaon office — which incidentally was a global pilot for the Dutch firm's workplace innovation programme — was that 25 per cent of the workforce would be out of office at any given time, so it could save on creating excess work space. About 400 employees are stationed here, but the place can accommodate up to 500.
According to Dutt, the free flowing design — stemming from Philips' brand promise of sense and simplicity — is also designed to remove hierarchical barriers. “I would be angry if anybody calls me Sir,” says Sharma pointing out how the work culture is informal, yet respectful.
Musical chairs — does it work?
But, isn't it unnerving to have to hunt for a seat each morning? “Oh, there is no hunting involved — there are enough and more places available,” says Tiwari. He says for him, the advantage with this design is that it encourages cross-functional interaction. Pointing to his own role — he is into media planning and buying — he says, how on the days he has to work with the marketing intelligence or research team, he can plan ahead and fix up seating with them. “In this office, we have people from three sectors — lighting, consumer electronics and healthcare — now people from all three sectors or different functional roles often sit together,” he adds.
What about the downsides? How much time did it take for older employees to adapt to this new design (this office became functional in 2009). “Oh, every organisation has some people who are resistant to change. And then, there will be some with bad work ethics or manners who will try and bag the best place or leave a workstation untidy,” says Tiwari, brushing these aside as inconsequential problems.
Also, Tiwari points out how the quantum of work could decide his seating for the day. “If I have a lot of work to finish without disturbance and distraction, I could choose to use the touchdown room,” he says.
Touchdown rooms are little cubby holes with a single desk and chair, in hidden corners of the office where staffers can lock themselves in. Conversely, on days with lighter schedules, employees can hang out in the break out zones (there are a good many of those) or the fun room.
The fun room is a cheerily furnished room — decorated by the employees themselves — with a variety of games from caroms to Monopoly and chessboards. “Although it is mostly play here, some of our most creative brainstorming sessions have also taken place here,” says Dutt, who also leads the Funaholics group of the office. This is a band of employee volunteers who organise fun events at the workplace around birthdays and special days such as Diwali or Christmas. “If you were here last Friday, you could have seen the Funkiest T-Shirt contest we held,” she says.
At the break out zones — some of these have bean bags, others lounge chairs, besides tea and coffee machines — a TV continuously streams Philips global happenings. “We hope that even as employees lounge around here, subconsciously, the news registers with them,” says Dutt.
At one of the breakout zones, there is a listening post — a cubicle with a computer and speakers. This is where staffers can get a live feel of what customers are saying about Philips' products. The call centre complaints that are recorded are constantly fed into this computer and by punching in a few keys, employees can listen in to the conversations and gain insights.
Holy Grails
Interestingly, there are some departments in the office that have fixed seating. The accounts department is housed in a closed access area — entry is through special swipe cards. Further down, the creative bunch — design professionals working on the next mixie shape or lamp silhouette — are housed in a large lab that is quite cluttered. Books piled up, memos pinned on the pinboard, arty posters near the door.
Employees also have the benefit of a fully equipped medical room and gym membership at the Gold Gym located downstairs in the Cybercity building. The bathrooms at the Philips office have shower and changing facilities, so staffers can pop in to the gym at any time during the day. “Hours are flexible here — and on occasion, one can even work from home,” says Dutt.
It is time for lunch and we troop into the sprawling cafeteria painted in cheerful red and white — the blinds are up and the glass wall affords a great view of Gurgaon. Everybody from the CEO down queues up for a meal here. There are two meal options — a light meal (minus dessert) for Rs 30 and a full meal for Rs 50. Besides, there are also sinful walnut cakes available at the deli – and bar stools at a side enclosure where you can chill out in the evenings. “I have been trying to do a wine and cheese evening here but can't get around the no liquor policy,” complains Vivek Sharma. As the others laugh at him, he says with mock seriousness. “Ogilvy says wine and creativity go together.”
“Our town hall meetings are held here — this hall also has projector facilities and doubles up a giant meeting room,” says Dutt. Occasionally dance parties are also held here — at the touch of a switch, the lighting can change to suit the occasion — soft and dim for parties, bright for meetings and so on.
As one heads out of the office, one can see some action at the large lounge near the reception. “This is the space we reserve for NGOs to organise collections from employees – for instance, Goonj collects old clothes from here. Or even card companies and insurance companies who want to make a pitch to employees can do it here,” says Dutt.
When it comes to offices, Philips has clearly seen the light!
HR SPEAK
Seems like a workplace that is “too good to be true”. So, you ask Yashwant Mahadik, Vice-President, HR, Philips India, how much a ‘feel good’ office contributes to worker productivity. Has it stopped attrition? “Our attrition numbers are far lower than the industry average,” he says. According to him, in the healthcare division, the rate is 5-6 per cent (8-10 per cent in the industry), while it is below 20 per cent in the durables division (25-30 per cent). He says Philips has innovated with a robust HR policy. “We do a lot of workforce planning — for instance, while charting out the company’s growth story, we also anticipate what might be the workforce requirement to manage this growth and how they can grow along with it,” he explains.
2011年5月5日 星期四
the speaker can still be used
Unlike most other ultra short-throw projectors, Mitsubishi models are truly portable at approximately nine pounds, which makes them easy to carry or place on an AV cart. They are simple to use: teachers can convert their class presentations into .PTG files or into .JPEG images, save them on a USB flash drive, plug the drive in and present directly from the projector. No computer is necessary. Wi-Fi support is also available for quick connection and operation (optional dongle sold separately).
A high-power 10-watt speaker with variable audio output is built in so even when the projector is in stand-by mode, the speaker can still be used, eliminating the cost and necessity of external amplifiers and speakers.
The WD380U-EST and XD380U-ST offer HDMI(TM) support as well as easy set-up options for multiple video inputs. They each have an RS232 connector as well as a built-in RJ45 input that offers plug-and-play connectivity with third-party remote management products such as those made by Crestron and AMX, as well as Mitsubishi's ProjectorView Global+.
Each projector comes with Mitsubishi's three-year limited warranty on parts and labor, and a one-year limited warranty on the lamp. Like all Mitsubishi data projectors, these new projectors are covered by the Express Replacement Assistance (ERA) Program, a comprehensive nationwide service that offers next business-day replacement** for down units that are under warranty.
"Mitsubishi is committed to product reliability and providing the best tools for a high-quality education in America. These impressive projectors also offer more for the strapped budgets of many school districts," said James Chan, vice president, marketing, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America. "They can be cart-mounted for sharing across multiple classrooms, and our unique mirror-free design is our statement of quality and commitment to technical excellence. We're excited to bring them to market."
A high-power 10-watt speaker with variable audio output is built in so even when the projector is in stand-by mode, the speaker can still be used, eliminating the cost and necessity of external amplifiers and speakers.
The WD380U-EST and XD380U-ST offer HDMI(TM) support as well as easy set-up options for multiple video inputs. They each have an RS232 connector as well as a built-in RJ45 input that offers plug-and-play connectivity with third-party remote management products such as those made by Crestron and AMX, as well as Mitsubishi's ProjectorView Global+.
Each projector comes with Mitsubishi's three-year limited warranty on parts and labor, and a one-year limited warranty on the lamp. Like all Mitsubishi data projectors, these new projectors are covered by the Express Replacement Assistance (ERA) Program, a comprehensive nationwide service that offers next business-day replacement** for down units that are under warranty.
"Mitsubishi is committed to product reliability and providing the best tools for a high-quality education in America. These impressive projectors also offer more for the strapped budgets of many school districts," said James Chan, vice president, marketing, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America. "They can be cart-mounted for sharing across multiple classrooms, and our unique mirror-free design is our statement of quality and commitment to technical excellence. We're excited to bring them to market."
MUSEION of modern and contemporary art Bolzano
The cities of Kassel and Bolzano in Europe have chosen to act as amplifiers of the unrest in Ciudad Juarez, the Mexican city which is the focus of the exhibition "Frontera" by Teresa Margolles. The show, which was on in Kassel until February, will be presented in Bolzano from May 29th. "Frontera" reflects on the dramatic scale of drug trafficking in Mexican society. The artist has used basic but very striking elements to create the works in "Frontera", and despite their minimalist style, they reveal great emotional depth and tragedy. The works go beyond the specific context that gave rise to them, with a universal value that explores our mechanisms of denial and the taboos still surrounding death and violence in contemporary society. The Museion exhibition features walls where executions took place, that the artist took down in Mexico and rebuilt in Bolzano—Muro Baleado (Culiacán), 2009, and Muro Ciudad Juárez, 2010—along with the works Plancha, 2010 and Cubo, 2010, a minimalist cube weighing a ton made out of iron from reinforced concrete taken from demolished buildings. The Bolzano exhibition will also be the first opportunity to see the filmed action Camiseta, created specially for "Frontera" and shot in the cities of Juarez, Kassel and Bolzano.
Teresa Margolles (Culican, Mexico 1963), is one of the founders of the group SEMEFO (Servicio Médico Forense/Forensic Medicine Service). In 2009 she represented Mexico at the Venice Biennale, while solo shows include Los Herederos, Peter Kilchmann, Zurich (2009), and En Lugar de los Hechos – Anstelle der Tatsachen, Kunsthalle Krems (2008). She has taken part in Manifesta7, Bolzano (2008), the Liverpool Biennale (2006), the Prague Biennale (2005 and 2003), and the Gwangju Biennale (2004).
Curated by Rein Wolfs and Letizia Ragaglia. Curatorial assistant Frida Carazzato. In collaboration with Kunsthalle Fridericianum, Kassel. Multilingual catalogue (German, Italian and English), Verlag der Buchhandlung Walther König, Köln.
Teresa Margolles (Culican, Mexico 1963), is one of the founders of the group SEMEFO (Servicio Médico Forense/Forensic Medicine Service). In 2009 she represented Mexico at the Venice Biennale, while solo shows include Los Herederos, Peter Kilchmann, Zurich (2009), and En Lugar de los Hechos – Anstelle der Tatsachen, Kunsthalle Krems (2008). She has taken part in Manifesta7, Bolzano (2008), the Liverpool Biennale (2006), the Prague Biennale (2005 and 2003), and the Gwangju Biennale (2004).
Curated by Rein Wolfs and Letizia Ragaglia. Curatorial assistant Frida Carazzato. In collaboration with Kunsthalle Fridericianum, Kassel. Multilingual catalogue (German, Italian and English), Verlag der Buchhandlung Walther König, Köln.
Dukane's Projector and Projector Lamp are 'Solid'
In a recent review of the Dukane Image Pro 8046 projector and DT00401 projector lamp, the reviewer commented that Dukane’s the kind of manufacturer who doesn’t necessarily score at the top of their class on each rating category, “but consistency is the name of their game.”
This is usually exactly what customers are after, especially with non-flashy purchases, where all you really want is something you know is going to work the way it’s supposed to when you flip the switch.
“Users who have purchased Dukane projectors for home use also report excellent graphics and better than average video,” said the reviewer at MyProjectionLamps, and really, that’s what most people in the market are after -- not something flashy, but something above average that gets the job done.
Evaluating the Dukane Image Pro 8046, designed for the classroom, the review finds “this projector has great data images but performs weaker in its video capabilities.” The data images were found to be “crisp, bright and full of color,” and even with a relatively low contract ratio; 500 to 1, “the 8046 model can display black levels better than most classroom data projectors.”
As the primary use for this Dukane projector is for presentations, the reviewer recommends that the audience sit 11 to 50 feet away from the screen for optimal viewing, since the lens “has a throw ratio of 1.22-1.46 and a zoom ratio of 1.2. Unfortunately, this projector does not perform well in well lit rooms, and therefore, it is recommended to only use in very dimly lit areas.”
The projector’s list price is $4,495, with a five-year warranty. That’s a fairly steep price, but the reviewer does note that “reports online have indicated that customers are extremely happy with the performance of the projector lamp inside this model.” The DT00401 lamp is manufactured to last over 2,000 hours, and is “straightforward to install. Better yet, consumers looking to save some additional dollars can try purchasing the bare lamp.”
This is usually exactly what customers are after, especially with non-flashy purchases, where all you really want is something you know is going to work the way it’s supposed to when you flip the switch.
“Users who have purchased Dukane projectors for home use also report excellent graphics and better than average video,” said the reviewer at MyProjectionLamps, and really, that’s what most people in the market are after -- not something flashy, but something above average that gets the job done.
Evaluating the Dukane Image Pro 8046, designed for the classroom, the review finds “this projector has great data images but performs weaker in its video capabilities.” The data images were found to be “crisp, bright and full of color,” and even with a relatively low contract ratio; 500 to 1, “the 8046 model can display black levels better than most classroom data projectors.”
As the primary use for this Dukane projector is for presentations, the reviewer recommends that the audience sit 11 to 50 feet away from the screen for optimal viewing, since the lens “has a throw ratio of 1.22-1.46 and a zoom ratio of 1.2. Unfortunately, this projector does not perform well in well lit rooms, and therefore, it is recommended to only use in very dimly lit areas.”
The projector’s list price is $4,495, with a five-year warranty. That’s a fairly steep price, but the reviewer does note that “reports online have indicated that customers are extremely happy with the performance of the projector lamp inside this model.” The DT00401 lamp is manufactured to last over 2,000 hours, and is “straightforward to install. Better yet, consumers looking to save some additional dollars can try purchasing the bare lamp.”
2011年5月2日 星期一
Projector Lamps on Laptops: Practicality Meets Mobility
With the proliferation of the tablet computer, some would suggest that the life of the laptop may be limited. This assumption overlooks the fact that the tablet is positioned more for those who consume content, not those who create it. The latest innovation in laptop computers is leveraging next-generation projector lamps and the mobile consumer is sure to benefit.
According to this recent review, the latest series of high-performance laptops, known as LIFEBOOKs, is being produced by Fujitsu Asia and contains the 2ns Generation Intel (News - Alert) Core processor. The laptops are built not only for mobile use, but also for practicality, providing everything for the mobile user.
Functioning as a high-speed processor, this new laptop also offers accessories that include tiny pico projectors that will attach to the side USB port. The projector, complete with a projector lamp, can also be stored in the ODD slot to be pulled out whenever needed. Another step toward the wireless world, this innovation is a great combination of audio visual projector and a laptop.
The pico projector casing and projector lamp is reportedly as thin as the laptop and appears to be sleek when plugged into the laptop. The projector also offers a pivot point so that the image projected can be moved as necessary. Such flexibility ensures the user can extend the value of the projector, as well as the new line of laptops.
To date, Fujistu still has not released much information regarding the specs of the new projector lamps or projectors, although the company has specified the resolution at 800 x 600. The projectors themselves are pico projectors and by design, they display small – and not very bright - images through the projector lamp. The practicality of these projectors, however, is likely to gain more attention than any lack of quality.
The new projector lamp model is slated for a Japan release in the short team, keeping Australian and North American consumers only wishing they could gain access to a mobile and practical innovation. The Fujitsu (News - Alert) projectors and projector lamps already on the market may be more appealing for those who want the “bigger than life” displays with crisp bright images.
For those seeking practicality and portability, however, the new pico projector lamp technology integrated with a laptop may just be the way to go. For the mobile user, this technology opens up some new doors, extending the value of the platform.
According to this recent review, the latest series of high-performance laptops, known as LIFEBOOKs, is being produced by Fujitsu Asia and contains the 2ns Generation Intel (News - Alert) Core processor. The laptops are built not only for mobile use, but also for practicality, providing everything for the mobile user.
Functioning as a high-speed processor, this new laptop also offers accessories that include tiny pico projectors that will attach to the side USB port. The projector, complete with a projector lamp, can also be stored in the ODD slot to be pulled out whenever needed. Another step toward the wireless world, this innovation is a great combination of audio visual projector and a laptop.
The pico projector casing and projector lamp is reportedly as thin as the laptop and appears to be sleek when plugged into the laptop. The projector also offers a pivot point so that the image projected can be moved as necessary. Such flexibility ensures the user can extend the value of the projector, as well as the new line of laptops.
To date, Fujistu still has not released much information regarding the specs of the new projector lamps or projectors, although the company has specified the resolution at 800 x 600. The projectors themselves are pico projectors and by design, they display small – and not very bright - images through the projector lamp. The practicality of these projectors, however, is likely to gain more attention than any lack of quality.
The new projector lamp model is slated for a Japan release in the short team, keeping Australian and North American consumers only wishing they could gain access to a mobile and practical innovation. The Fujitsu (News - Alert) projectors and projector lamps already on the market may be more appealing for those who want the “bigger than life” displays with crisp bright images.
For those seeking practicality and portability, however, the new pico projector lamp technology integrated with a laptop may just be the way to go. For the mobile user, this technology opens up some new doors, extending the value of the platform.
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