|Publication number||US5400018 A|
|Application number||US 07/995,461|
|Publication date||Mar 21, 1995|
|Filing date||Dec 22, 1992|
|Priority date||Dec 22, 1992|
|Publication number||07995461, 995461, US 5400018 A, US 5400018A, US-A-5400018, US5400018 A, US5400018A|
|Inventors||Rolland D. Scholl, David R. Schricker, Satish M. Shetty|
|Original Assignee||Caterpillar Inc.|
|Export Citation||BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan|
|Patent Citations (6), Referenced by (317), Classifications (10), Legal Events (4)|
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet|
This invention relates generally to a method for relaying information from a vehicle at a work site to a remote location and, more particularly, to a method for reducing the amount of information being relayed.
Emerging technologies have enabled remote work locations to become safer, more efficient and more automated. For example, increased diagnostic capabilities have allowed work vehicles at a work site to perform on-board diagnostics to reduce downtime by preventing certain kinds of breakdowns. These systems allow for preventative maintenance.
These diagnostic systems and advanced sensor arrays produce a tremendous amount of information. This information allows the operating level of the vehicle, that is, its performance, efficiency, and other operating characteristics to be known at all times.
Some of this information may be used on board the vehicle to perform low level diagnostics. However, due to on-board computing power limitations and the lack of operator expertise in using this information to diagnose the vehicle and its systems, the information is more useful off-board the vehicle. Off-board this information may be used to perform diagnostics, prognostics (the ability to prevent a breakdown before it occurs), and also to develop new diagnostics and prognostics.
There are a number of ways in which information may be relayed from a vehicle to a location where it can be used fully. For example, the vehicle could be equipped with a control module which includes a storage medium such as a battery backed static ROM. An external computer, such as a portable or laptop computer, may be connected to a data link on the vehicle and information downloaded to the external computer.
Another way that information may be transferred from the vehicle to the remote location is through a communications, for example, satellite, radio, or other radio frequency means. A number of telecommunications companies provide a service of transferring data from one location to another through the use of a telecommunications satellite. This provides increased flexibility since the vehicle does not have to be at a certain location for information to be transferred. Furthermore, this method also saves time since a technician does not have to download the information physically. Also, the transfer can be practically instantaneous. This allows for faster response to problems which have developed or are about to develop.
However, these communication services are expensive. This only becomes more apparent when it is recognized how much information is produced by the vehicle's systems. Therefore, it is desirable to reduce the amount of information that is required to be transferred while providing relevant information when needed.
The present invention is directed at solving one or more of the problems as set forth above.
In one aspect of the present invention a method for reducing the amount of information relating to the status of a vehicle being relayed to a remote location over a communications data link is provided. The method includes the steps of generating a fault code, delivering the fault code to the remote location across the data link, receiving the fault code at the remote location and responsively generating a data request signal. The method further includes the steps of delivering the data request signal to the vehicle over the data link (212), receiving the data request signal, responsibly generating vehicle information, and delivering the generated vehicle information to the remote location over the data link.
FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic representation of a work site with three trucks, a service support hub and service centers;
FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic representation of a fleet of trucks each having a monitor, a remote service site, and a satellite communications network for relaying information between the two;
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the monitor of FIG. 2;
FIG. 4 is a graphical representation of information related to the operation of a truck averaged over one engine hour of operation;
FIG. 5 is a graphical representation of a "snapshot" of a set of truck parameters;
FIG. 6 is a graphical representation of a "snapshot" of another set of truck parameters;
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a method for relaying information between a truck and a remote location, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 8 is a first portion of a flow diagram illustrating the method of FIG. 7; and
FIG. 9 is a second portion of a flow diagram illustrating the method of FIG. 7.
The present invention provides a method for relaying needed information between a vehicle and a remote location. The present invention has many applications. For explanation purposes only, the present invention will be discussed in relation to two applications.
With reference to FIG. 1, the present invention may be adapted to relay information from a fleet of vehicle situated at a work site 102, for example a mine site. For simplicity, two hauling vehicles 104,106 are shown, but a mine site will typically utilize a larger number and variety of vehicles. All of which may generate information utilized by the present invention.
At the mine site 102 are located a dispatcher 108 and a service center 110. The dispatcher 108 coordinates the operation of the mine site including scheduling of the work vehicle's operation and scheduling vehicle maintenance. The service center 110 performs routine maintenance and repairs.
The vehicles 104,106 generate a set of data relating to its operation. The data is relayed according to the method of the present invention to a service support hub 112. At the service support hub 112 an expert 114 reviews the data from the vehicle 104,106. After analysis, the expert 114 may issue a set of repair instructions. The repair instructions are relayed to the service center 110 at the mine site 102 and/or to a dealer service center 118. Depending upon the needed repairs, the maintenance may be done at the service center or the dealer service center 118. In either case, the repair orders to the dealer service center 110 may include a list of needed parts.
It is envisioned that the expert 114 at the service support hub 112 may be an employee of the dealer, the mine operator, or the manufacturer of the vehicle 104,106.
In addition, the date received from the trucks 104,106 may be relayed to vehicle specialists at another remote location 116. At this location, the data may undergo further analysis to detect and identify current and potential problems. The data may also be used to develop future diagnostics and prognostics.
With reference to FIG. 2, the method of the present invention may be adapted to a fleet of highway transportation trucks. As shown, the fleet of three trucks 202,204,206 are not confined to a small work site, but operate over a larger less-defined area.
Each truck 202,204,206 includes a monitor 210. In the preferred embodiment, the monitor 210 is microprocessor based. The monitor 210 receives data from a plurality of sources on the vehicles. The types of sources include sensors and electronic control modules (ECM). Typically electronic control modules are used to control one subsystem of the vehicle, for example, the vehicle's engine or transmission. The ECM uses sensor information and may also generate its own set of parameters. The ECM may transfer the sensor information it receives and some of the parameters it generates internally to the monitor 210.
Data is relayed to outside locations using a satellite communications network 212, The network 212 includes at least one satellite 216. In the preferred embodiment, satellite communications are purchased as a service. One suitable service is provided by Qualcomm, Inc., having offices at 10555 Sorrento Valley Rd. San Diego, Calif. 92121. Qualcomm also provides a suitable terminal as the OmniTRACS Mobile Communications Terminal (MCT).
A transceiver 214 provides communications between the monitor 210 and the satellite communications network 212. A satellite base 218 receives the data from the satellite 216 and relays the data to the customer. As shown, the data is used by vehicle specialists 220 and experts 222 to generate repair instructions. The repair instructions are relayed back to the vehicle 202,204,206 and to a service center 224 and/or dealer service center 226.
With reference to FIG. 3, each vehicle 104,106 may include a variety of sensors, diagnostics 308, and/or prognostics 304. In addition, the vehicle 210 may include one or more computer based models 302.
In one embodiment, the diagnostics, prognostics, and/or models are implemented on the monitor 210.
In an other embodiment, the diagnostics, prognostics may be implemented by an ECM 208. The ECM 208 may be a dedicated ECM or may be shared with another function.
A management information manager (MIM) gathers and otherwise prepares the data from each of the sources for transmission.
The models use sensor data to model or predict the value of a specific vehicle parameter or parameters. The same parameter or parameters are measured. The measure and modeled values are compared. The difference may be used in the diagnostics and/or prognostics. One such model is disclosed in International Application No. PCT/US91/09322, filed by William L. Brown, Jr., et al. on Dec. 19, 1991.
The sensors and models generate a set of data every at. In the preferred embodiment, data is generated every second. This information is stored on a storage device on the vehicle 202,204,206.
The monitor 210 produces a fault code in response to predetermined conditions in the diagnostics, the prognostics, or in response to an operator generated signal.
The diagnostics 308 compare measured or actual values of parameters to preset operating ranges. The ranges may vary depending upon other operating conditions. The diagnostics produce a fault code in response to a parameter value operating outside of its preset range. The diagnostics may produce a predetermined number of fault codes. Each fault code is an indication of a particular fault, that is, a particular parameter operating outside its preset range.
The prognostics 304 analyze data in order to detect conditions that may lead to future problems. For example, a specific parameter may be operating in its preset range, but may be decreasing at an unusual rate. The unusualness of the decrease may be an indication of a fault condition about to happen. Therefore, the prognostics 304 may be adapted to look at the rate change of specific parameters and responsively generate fault codes.
The other type of fault code is the driver initiated code. This code is generated in response to the vehicle operator actuating a switch. In one embodiment, the monitor 210 is equipped with a single switch. In an other embodiment, the monitor 210 is equipped with a plurality of switches. The operator actuates a switch after experiencing unusual operating conditions. In the other embodiment, each switch may be linked to a specific type of or area of problem. This would give the expert 114 additional information to use in the decision for more data.
With reference to FIG. 7, the present invention provides a method for cutting the costs associated with the use of a satellite communication network 212. The monitor 210 generate a fault code based on the diagnostics, prognostics or in response to an operator generated signal in function blocks 702,704 or 706. The fault code is transmitted across the satellite communications network 212 to an expert at one of the remote locations in functional block 708.
The code is received and analyzed by the expert 310 in functional block 710. The expert 310 has a history of the vehicle, for example, its maintenance records, past fault codes, and other data previously transmitted from the vehicle. In analyzing the fault code in view of this record, the expert 114 may decide that (1) certain repairs are needed, or (2) additional information is needed.
If the expert 114 decides that additional information is needed then a data request signal is produced (function block 716). The data request signal is transmitted back to the monitor 210 on the vehicle through the satellite communications network 212. The data request signal describes the information needed and in what form (see below).
In response to the data request signal, the monitor 210 retrieves the requested information from storage and transmits it back to the expert (function block 718). Based on this data, the expert can make repair recommendations (function blocks 720,712).
The expert 114, after receiving the fault code, may in view of the vehicle's history have enough information to generate repair instructions.
As discussed above, the monitor 210, gathers information from a number of sources (sensors and models) and stores the data in a storage medium. Preferably each of the parameters included in the information is gathered at 1.0 second increments. The list of parameters gathered by the monitor 210 include, but is not limited to:
______________________________________Date TimeEngine Speed Vehicle SpeedFuel Rate Oil Pressure RailOil Pressure Pump Oil Pressure Pump- RailBoost Pressure RackDes Engine Timing Coolant TemperatureAtmospheric Pressure Inlet Air PressureAir Filter D/P Intake Manifold PressureIntake Manifold Temperature Inlet Air TemperatureFuel Temperature Brake temperatureExhaust TemperatureComputer-based Model Parameters______________________________________
The above list is exemplary only and is not intended to be a complete list of all possibilities. The exact list will be dependent upon, the specific vehicle, the sensors available on the vehicle, and the computer-based models.
As stated above, the data request signal is indicative of the type of data required. Furthermore, depending upon the surrounding circumstances, the data may be requested in one of a plurality of forms. In the preferred embodiment, the data may be transmitted back to the expert 114 in a "snap-shot" form or in a "trend" form.
Data in snap-shot form refers to the data as captured or stored. Therefore, in the preferred embodiment, this means in 1.0 second increments. Preferably, the data sent will be from a predetermined period of time before the fault code is generated and a predetermined period of time after the fault code is generated. Typically a snap-shot of data is over a short range of time, typically less than 500 seconds worth of data. In the preferred embodiment, a snap-shot of data includes data from five minutes (300 seconds) before to one minute (60 seconds) after the fault code occurred. However, a snapshot gives an excellent indication of the operating conditions at the time of the fault code.
Examples of data in snapshot form is shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. In FIG. 5 the snapshot includes data of five parameters: oil pressure, exhaust temperature, rack, vehicle speed, and engine speed. The data in FIG. 5 was taken in response to an oil pressure fault code. The fault code occurred at the 300 second mark. The snapshot includes data from five minutes prior to 1 minute after the fault code.
In FIG. 6 the snapshot includes data of four parameters: exhaust temperature, rack, vehicle speed, and engine speed. The data in FIG. 6 was taken in response to an operator initiated fault code. As in FIG. 5, the fault code occurred at the 300 second mark. And the snapshot includes data from five minutes prior to 1 minute after the fault code.
Trend data is shown in FIG. 4. The data shown is averaged over a specified period of time. In the preferred embodiment, data is averaged over one hour time periods. The data shown in FIG. 4 represents only one possible set of data transmitted: average fuel pressure, average exhaust temperature, and average boost pressure. The data in FIG. 4 was taken in response to a low power fault code. However, an analysis of the data indicates a downward trend in the measured parameters prior to the fault code. The parameters were not outside the respective preset ranges, therefore no diagnostic fault code was generated. However, it is believed that recognition of the rate of change of specific parameters gives an indication of future problems which can be avoided, prevented, or at least minimized. The recognition of these conditions would prompt the generation of prognostic fault codes.
With reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, the present invention is embodied in a method for reducing the amount of data being relayed from a vehicle 104 to a remote location 116,118,218,220,222.
In a first control block 800 a fault is detected. The fault may be generated by the diagnostics, the prognostics, or it may be an operator initiated fault. In a second control block 802, a fault code is produced. The fault code gives an indication of the conditions of the fault. In a third control block 804, the fault code is transmitted over the satellite communications link 212 to a remote location. The fault code is received at the remote location in a fourth control block 806. An expert at the remote location analyzes the .fault code in view of the history of the vehicle and determines if data stored on the vehicle is needed (decision block 808).
If data stored on the vehicle is needed a data request signal is produced (fifth control block 810). The data request signal is indicative of the type and form of the requested data. In a sixth control block 812, the data request signal is transmitted to the vehicle over the satellite communications network 212.
Referring to FIG. 9, in a seventh control block 902, the data request signal is received by the monitor 210 at the vehicle through the transceiver 214. The monitor 210 retrieves the requested data from the storage device (tenth control block 904). In an eleventh control block 906 the requested data is transmitted back to the remote location over the satellite communications network 212. The data is received by the expert, analyzed, and a set of repair instructions are produced (twelfth and thirteenth control blocks). The repair instructions are then also sent to a service center (fourteenth control block 914).
The location of the service center will determine the communication medium used. For example, if the service center is located at the work site, the repair instructions may be sent over the satellite communications network 212. Other possible means of communications include radio frequency transceivers for short range communications and communications between computers via modems.
With reference to the drawings and in operation, the present invention provides a method for relaying information between a vehicle and a remote location. The information is used to perform diagnostics and prognostics, to generate repair instructions, and in the development of future diagnostics and prognostics.
The monitor 210 generates a plurality of fault codes in response to predetermined conditions from a number of sources. The sources include diagnostics and prognostics. Additionally, fault codes are generated in response to operator triggered signals.
The fault codes are indicative of the conditions which initiated the code, for example, a parameter exceeding its preset range. The fault code is transmitted to a remote location for analysis by an expert. The expert has access to the history of the particular vehicle. By analyzing the fault code in light of this record, the expert may (1) request information stored on the vehicle or (2) issue repair orders.
If the expert requests additional information a signal is generated and transmitted back to the vehicle. The monitor at the vehicle, retrieves the requested data from storage and places it in the proper form. Then, the gathered information is transmitted to the expert. The expert will then issue repair orders, based on the vehicle's history, the fault code, and the transmitted data.
Other aspects, objects, and features of the present invention can be obtained from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.
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|U.S. Classification||340/10.3, 340/438, 340/534, 701/31.4|
|International Classification||G07C5/00, G08G1/123|
|Cooperative Classification||G08G1/20, G07C5/008|
|European Classification||G08G1/20, G07C5/00T|
|Dec 22, 1992||AS||Assignment|
Owner name: CATERPILLAR INC., ILLINOIS
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST.;ASSIGNORS:SCHOLL, ROLLAND D.;SCHRICKER, DAVID R.;SHETTY, SATISH M.;REEL/FRAME:006373/0914;SIGNING DATES FROM 19921210 TO 19921214
|Jun 17, 1998||FPAY||Fee payment|
Year of fee payment: 4
|Aug 29, 2002||FPAY||Fee payment|
Year of fee payment: 8
|Aug 23, 2006||FPAY||Fee payment|
Year of fee payment: 12


Android Gingerbread Nexus One Experiencing Call Problems
The word doing the round is that owners of the Google Nexus One smartphone are having some problem with voice calls in the form of a delay at the start of a voice call resulting in the Nexus One shutting off the call.
According to an article over on Pandroid by way of Pocket Now, it appears that the issue is released to Android 2.3 Gingerbread and according to Android Guys; users posting about the problem aren’t apparently getting much help from Google.
However apparently this voice call problem may not be just confined to the Nexus One as according to Phandroid, after running a custom Gingerbread ROM on their HTC EVO they are experiencing the same problem.
So our question is, are any of our readers experiencing this issue or any other problems with their Android 2.3 Gingerbread smartphone, if so feel free to voice your concerns to our comments area below.


Street Construction News
Lane Closure – Minnesota Avenue Bridge
Beginning after 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 15, 2018, the bridge on North Minnesota Avenue between Benson Road and 60th Street North will be reduced to one lane with a traffic signal controlling traffic to perform deck repairs.
This work is anticipated to be complete by Monday, August 20, 2018.
Drivers are urged to use caution and reduce their speed while traveling near the construction area and may want to consider alternate routes.


text:
The gut and the brain are two critical organs in the body. While they are far apart, they share a close connection. Metabolic and neural crosstalk between the gut and brain impacts brain function, mood and behavior. And now, a growing body of research suggests that gut microbiome composition may be associated with substance use disorders.
If it’s true that the gut can influence your predisposition to substance use disorders, and play a role in drug cravings, then it’s also true that a healthy gut can help you heal from addiction.
Let’s learn more about this interesting connection and how caring for your gut health can make a big difference in your recovery.
What is the Gut Microbiome?
The gut microbiome consists of trillions of bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. Apart from aiding digestion, destroying harmful bacteria, and controlling your immune system, gut health has also been linked to various physical and mental health conditions.
Recent research has shown that the gut microbiome may also influence addiction by affecting the way the brain processes rewards and behavior. For instance, neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin and GABA regulate mood, behavior and other physiological processes in the brain. Imbalances in these chemicals have been linked to addiction and other mental health conditions.
How Does the Gut Microbiome Affect Addiction?
Studies have found that certain strains of bacteria in the gut microbiome can influence the production of dopamine, serotonin and GABA, potentially increasing the risk of addiction. Dopamine, specifically, has been classically associated with addiction because it reinforces the effects of drugs and alcohol. It may also trigger neurobiological changes associated with addiction.
Inflammation is another concerning issue. Inflammation in the body has been linked to various health conditions, including addiction. Even though inflammation plays a role in protecting your body, too much inflammation can be a problem. The gut microbiome plays a key role in regulating inflammation in the body, and imbalances can lead to chronic inflammation, which can increase addiction.
Furthermore, the gut-brain axis, which refers to the communication network between the gut and the brain, may also play a role in substance use disorders. Studies have found that changes in the gut can lead to changes in the brain’s reward system. This can impact your susceptibility to addiction.
How to Improve Gut Health in Recovery
To protect your recovery, it’s important to improve your gut health. Doing this can help you feel better, make it easier to make good decisions, and reduce your risk of relapse. Here are some tips for improving your gut microbiome in addiction recovery:
- Eat a diverse range of foods
- Focus on fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes
- Add fermented foods to your diet
- Eat prebiotic foods
- Increase your intake of probiotics
- Exercise often
- Reduce stress levels
Holistic Treatment for Substance Use Disorders
While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between gut health and addiction, there are steps you can take to improve your gut health and lower your risk for relapse. Fortunately, this is what self-care is about! Eating healthy foods, getting enough exercise, and sleeping well at night.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction or relapse, contact Awakenings Treatment Center. We are an intensive outpatient treatment center that offers holistic care. We believe in treating the whole self – mind, body and spirit – for complete healing and restoration. As a client of ours, you will learn how to restore your gut health and lead a healthier life.
Start your life-changing journey today!

domain: medical


Reports to: Operations Manager
Department/Division: Information Systems
Employment type: Permanent
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Lawyers’ Professional Indemnity Company (LAWPRO®) is an insurance company that provides professional liability insurance to lawyers in private practice in Ontario and provides TitlePLUS title insurance coast-to-coast. We are a highly rated insurance company with an “A” rating from A. M. Best, a leading rating agency. Our central downtown location, our high-functioning professional staff, and our commitment to working with employees to help them realize their career development goals are company trademarks.
Working under the direction of the Operations Manager, the Security Administrator is responsible for installing, administering and troubleshooting LAWPRO security solutions. Configuring and supporting security tools such as firewalls, anti-virus software and patch management systems, and monitoring/responding to security events or incidents. The individual in this position will work closely with internal staff and co-ordinate activities with vendors and managed service providers to maintain the optimal security, privacy, and integrity of LAWPRO information resources.
- Evaluate, install, configure, and/or maintain security systems and applications. Systems may be in-house or outsourced;
- Assist in the implementation of corporate security policies, assessments and compliance;
- Assist in the recommendation, scheduling, testing, and deployment of security patches and software;
- Assist with system and application vulnerability testing;
- Perform remedial actions in response to security incident reports, threat and vulnerability assessments or internal/external audits;
- Monitor, analyze and react to unusual network or system activity;
- Monitor and maintain asset patch and version standardization and compliance;
- Act as a liaison with product vendors and managed service providers;
- Act as level two support escalation point as required;
- Other backup system admin duties as assigned and appropriate.
- 5+ years experience in the information technology field with 2+ years exposure/experience in the security field;
- degree or certificate in an IT related field or equivalent work experience, CISSP preferred;
- appreciation for core information security principles, including threat and vulnerability management, incident response, and identity management;
- current knowledge of security software applications, tools and services;
- current knowledge of network infrastructure and communications (including firewalls, routers, switches, firewalls) and associated network standards and protocols;
- strong background with current Microsoft Windows, Azure, O365, and Active Directory/Group Policy administration technologies;
- strong background with Linux/Unix administration;
- experience with securing portable devices;
- experience with security systems including firewalls, IDS/IPS, vulnerability management systems, SIEM, is strongly preferred;
- knowledge of CIS benchmarks, security frameworks, and system hardening best practices;
- knowledge of ITIL principles (e.g., change management, incident management);
- experience with managing security aspects of cloud system implementations
- experience with scripting, tools and techniques;
- proven ability to work under stress in emergencies with flexibility to handle multiple high-pressure situations simultaneously;
- ability to work both independently and co-operatively in a small team environment;
- dedication to exceptional customer service;
- ability and appetite to learn new technologies and adapt to a rapidly changing environment;
- troubleshooting and information-seeking abilities;
- strong organizational and time management skills;
- excellent communication skills in English (mandatory) and French (preferred).
Deadline for Applications is May 7th, 2021
It is preferred that the candidate email their resume and cover letter to [email protected]
LAWPRO is committed to providing employment in accordance with the
. Please be advised that accommodation is available in our recruitment processes to all applicants with disabilities, upon request.


text:
One of the seven societal challenges as identified by Horizon2020 is “Europe in a changing world – Inclusive, innovative and reflective societies”.
CESSDA is the European network and multiplier organisation in the project for the social science domain and will publish a series of blog posts on the challenges and opportunities of big data for the social sciences.
The primary goal of data research in social sciences is to facilitate more and wider use of high quality microdata in social, economic and political research and in turn, their ability to improve our understanding of ongoing societal processes, the problems involved and the solutions available.
The vast majority of questions raised in these fields cannot be dealt with adequately without the availability of and easy access to data, particularly statistical microdata. The data should ideally be as rich as possible in order to enable in-depth analyses of social processes which only can be carried out if data are available at the level of individuals. Such data (from social networks, tracking devices, transaction records, customer databases etc. and often referred to as Big Data given their volume) have significant research potential, but their use at national levels and for comparative cross-national analysis is currently limited by concerns about access, completeness, quality, comparability, commercial applications, confidentiality, security, plus the sheer scale and complexity of the undertaking.
Currently, access to big data technologies is the exclusive preserve of large companies that can hire specialists familiar with the acquisition, storage, analysis, curation and usage of Big Data. The results of the Big Data Europe project will be to enable SMEs, startups and NGOs to easily deploy and use Big Data technologies in a manner tailored to their needs.
We will design a Big Data Interest Group for the social sciences and ensure that we outreach and engage with all relevant stakeholders in this domain in Europe, using the W3C Community infrastructure.
We will hold three annual workshops and the first one takes place on 18 November 2015 in Luxembourg and will introduce the background, cover the main challenges, and seek real examples of the potential, challenges and complexities of using big data in our societies. The results will be used to design a new big data platform delivered by the BigDataEurope project. As a recognised stakeholder in this sector, participants in the project will have the opportunity to influence the design, and ultimately benefit from the platform that the project aims to deliver.
We are also organising an online “hang-out” on the risks and challenges of successful data management in the Social Sciences and Humanities on Tuesday 13 October from 14:00 to 15:00.
BDE on CESSDA website: http://cessda.net/CESSDA-Services/Projects/Big-Data-Europe

domain: economics


Transit, Telework, and Housing Markets: Investigating Locational Preferences for Transit-oriented Development in Pre- and Post-Pandemic Canadian Cities
Over the past several decades, policies that promote higher density, mixed use, compact, and transit-oriented development have been implemented as a means of achieving urban vitality and more sustainable growth around the world. Previous research into property markets and individual and household preferences has demonstrated that there is demand amongst certain segments of the population for living in neighbourhoods that offer rapid transit accessibility and higher-density built environments rich in urban amenities.
However, the global COVID‑19 pandemic has resulted in a significant shock to the urban systems of many cities, including those in Canada. Early evidence suggests that social distancing measures and increases in remote work have contributed to plummeting transit ridership and a shift in locational preferences for more suburban development. While it remains unclear how transportation systems and housing markets will adjust as we emerge from the pandemic, its disruptive effects on the urban spatial structure of cities requires further investigation.
From a research perspective, previous work examining how individuals and households value transit accessibility and transit-oriented development in housing markets has been conducted under the assumption that individual or household preferences remain (relatively) static and that there will be demand for the benefits of planning interventions that promote more sustainable forms of development. But what happens in the opposite scenario, where transportation services and urban form remain constant and preferences rapidly change? To answer this question, the proposed research seeks to analyze the relationship between property market indicators, household locational preferences and travel patterns, and the demand for urban and suburban built environments.
This work is spread over four objectives. First, the project team will classify different neighbourhoods in major Canadian cities according to their transportation and land use context and link results with the real estate transaction data. Next, we will complete the first comparative analysis of how transit and other urban amenities are valued in Canadian cities and explore whether and how the value of these amenities changes across the pre-, mid-, and post-pandemic periods. The third objective is to collect survey data on homebuyer preferences to better understand the factors informing their locational decisions and the prevalence of spatial (mis)matches between preferences and urban amenities. Finally, the fourth objective is to fuse the survey data with property transaction information for a novel mixed-methods approach that will provide new insight into not only the value associated with where individuals or households choose to live, but also information on who is making these decisions and why.
The proposed research benefits from team expertise in urban and transportation geography, quantitative methods, and survey design. Moreover, this research is enabled by access to a cross-Canada database of real estate transaction data and is supported by seed funding from the Suburban Mobilities research cluster at the University of Toronto Scarborough. In addition to providing the first spatio-temporal analyses of property markets and the role of homebuyer preferences in Canadian communities, the results of our work will provide actionable information on met and unmet demand for more sustainable forms of urban development that can inform planning and policy for improved social, environmental, and economic outcomes. While the COVID‑19 virus is likely to eventually be viewed as a serious but temporary disruption, it is critical to assess its effects on longer-term goals related to achieving urban sustainability.


text: Meet Fawn! She is a catahoula mix who is spayed and up to date on vaccinations. Fawn was brought in as part of a hoarding case and has been neglected for most of her life. We have been working really hard with her on building trust and social skills, but she is still pretty shy. Fawn LOVES treats, playing with other dogs, and running in the outside kennels. Come visit Fawn Tuesday-Friday from 1-5pm and Saturday from 1-4pm!

domain: pet


LSU Eunice claims DII Softball title with back-to-back wins over Jones
May 17, 2014
Championship Home – Box Score – NJCAA TV Replay
CLINTON, Miss. – With two comeback victories over Jones County (Miss.) Saturday, LSU Eunice won their second straight NJCAA DII Softball national championship. In the final game of the day, the Bengals clinched the title with an 8-6 victory.
Offensively, sophomore first baseman Brooklyn Clark led the way for LSU Eunice with three hits and an RBI. Clark was named the tournament’s MVP after going 11-for-22 from the plate with two doubles and five RBIs.
LSU Eunice trailed the Bobcats 6-0 before mounting their comeback with 8 runs in the sixth inning. Bengals sophomore third baseman Carey Alexis got the rally started by drawing a bases loaded walk to put LSU Eunice on the board. Freshman designated hitter Danielle Cruickshank followed with a two-run double which scores two more runs for the Bengals. An overthrow on the play sent Alexis home – trimming the deficit to 6-4 – as Cruickshank advanced to third.
Later in the inning, LSU Eunice tied the game with two more runs off a fielding error by Jones County. A wild pitch by the Bobcats brought in sophomore center fielder Codi Covington to give the Bengals a 7-6 lead. Clark then added an insurance run for LSU Eunice with a base hit to center.
The Marucci Elite Hitter award was presented to Bengals sophomore right fielder Emily Nolan who went 8-for-19 with four home runs, a double and 15 RBIs during the tournament. Covington, Alexis, freshman second baseman Taylor Boulet and freshman pitcher Raven Cole were among the LSU Eunice players selected to the all-tournament team.
Trailing 1-0 in the first game of the championship round, the Bengals scored five runs in the fifth inning to seal a 5-1 victory.
With back-to-back national championships under their belt, LSU Eunice has now won three of the last four DII softball crowns and is the only program other than Phoenix (Ariz.) to win multiple DII championships.
Photos courtesy of Nicholas Phillips/LSU Eunice Athletics


text:
TORONTO — The overhaul of "Hockey Night in Canada" has begun.
Rogers executives took over a CBC-TV studio Monday to tout an upcoming NHL broadcast season that, under its guidance, will "be a season like never before" with a "fresh face."
That fresh face is CBC-TV personality George Stroumboulopoulos, who will be the new host of "Hockey Night in Canada," taking over from veteran anchor Ron MacLean, whose Saturday night role will be trimmed to co-host of Coach’s Corner.
Rogers boss Scott Moore admits the 41-year-old Stroumboulopoulos was recruited in a bid to attract a broader audience to the media giant’s various sports channels, especially as younger viewers appear to be increasingly tuning out of TV entirely.
"We want to get a little bit younger, we want to catch that demo that is not necessarily coming to the television at all — that are either playing video games or not going out and participating in the games — we want to get a new breed of Canadian fans that get passionate about the games," Moore, president of Sportsnet and NHL properties, said following a televised news conference.
"I think George does that, I think George brings a different sensibility but one of the great things is having him with the rest of the team. He’ll sort of be like that ‘Sesame Street’ thing — one of these things is not like the others — but he’ll bring something different and his own unique take on hockey broadcasting."
The shakeup is Rogers’ first major personnel change since acquiring the NHL broadcast rights in a blockbuster $5.2-billion deal in November.
MacLean and Don Cherry will continue to host their popular Coach’s Corner segment, and MacLean will still host the annual "Hockey Day in Canada" show. In addition, MacLean will be involved in a new Sunday night telecast, "Hometown Hockey Community Celebration," on City.
Meanwhile, Sportsnet personalities Daren Millard and Jeff Marek will also be part of the Rogers broadcast package. Millard, who will continue to host "Hockey Central at Noon" on Sportsnet 590 The Fan, will also host "Wednesday Night Hockey" on Sportsnet. Marek will be at the helm of "Thursday Night Hockey" on Sportsnet 360 in addition to weekend pre-game shows on Sportsnet.
The new HNIC broadcasts will continue to be shot at CBC studios and air on CBC-TV, the result of a four-year sub-licensing deal, Moore said. But the HNIC brand will also be used on City, Sportsnet, Sportsnet One, Sportsnet 360 and FX Canada, offering up as many as seven games on Saturdays.
The announcement came as CBC announced that Stroumboulopoulos’s Gemini Award-winning chat show "George Stroumboulopoulos Tonight" would be cancelled after the completion of its 10th season.
"I knew that you can only do something for so long before it’s time to try something else," said Stroumboulopoulos, a rabid Montreal Canadiens fan who began his broadcasting career as a radio reporter at the Fan 590 (now Sportsnet 590 The Fan).
"I love the Rogers component but I love the CBC component as well and it felt like a natural fit. But yeah, I knew that the show as a daily show was going to change and I’m still talking to the CBC about what we can work together on in the next little while. I have no interest in walking away from it and I’ve been led to believe that they don’t either."
A former MuchMusic VJ known for his pierced ears and black clothing, Stroumboulopoulos will no doubt bring some edge to "Hockey Night in Canada," which has been headed by the straightlaced 53-year-old MacLean since the mid-80s.
MacLean appeared to take a light-hearted dig at the handover Monday as he joined the press conference, shaking Stroumboulopoulos’s hand with the barely audible quip: "Don’t screw this up, it’s a big show."
Later, he said he was glad to continue working with Cherry on Coach’s Corner and understood why Rogers was keen to revamp "Hockey Night in Canada." He harkened back to how he took over the reins from former host Dave Hodge.
"I think it’s a great idea to get George — someone younger, it’s always good," he said. "Dave was 26 when he started, I was 26 when I started and we sort of broke in as the fresh faces to a great team."
He looked forward to Stroumboulopoulos’s spin on the venerable Saturday night staple.
"George can handle the show — he’s a great ringleader," said MacLean, who hosted the show for nearly 30 years. "And (with) his interview skills, that just really hasn’t been a part of the Saturdays for the last little while. I think they will want to re-trigger that skill, of a good interview."
The change could meet resistance from some traditional hockey fans but Calgary Flames executive Brian Burke thinks Stroumboulopoulos is "brilliant."
"I don’t think there are a lot of guys who could switch from a news format to a sports format, but he can," Burke said at the NHL general managers meetings in Florida. "He’s a brilliant guy, I think."
"I had no idea that was coming, but I’m a big fan of his," he added. "It surprises me, but that’s good news."
Cherry said Stroumboulopoulos better know his stuff or he won’t last.
"You have to be honest and the camera … you can’t lie," said Cherry. "I’ve seen guys come and go, they’re entertaining, but you can’t fool the public."
Moore said talk of the shakeup began as soon as Rogers secured the NHL broadcast rights, although details were only recently confirmed. A broader cast of analysts and panellists has yet to be announced, he added.
And even though MacLean will have a more limited role on Saturday night, Moore insisted he’s a key part of Rogers’ hockey coverage.
"I was always a proponent that in any way shape or form Ron was a key part of what we were going to do going forward and if we were going to bring somebody else in we needed to find someplace that Ron could truly help us build something," said Moore. "I think that’s what we have on Sunday night."
MacLean noted that his new Sunday night gig — which will also be hosted in studio by Stroumboulopoulos — ends any possibility of returning to a possible new season of CBC’s reality show "Battle of the Blades," which also airs Sundays. But he expected to continue his presence on CBC through upcoming Olympic coverage.
Moore said adding hockey to City’s Saturday and Sunday night prime-time lineups should help promote the overall schedule. He noted that Saturday nights have typically featured OLN repeat programming.
He expected Sunday night hockey to draw a much bigger audience to City’s prime time, allowing the network to push weekday comedies including "2 Broke Girls" and "Mike and Molly."
"Sunday nights we have an advantage in that we will not be buying Hollywood programming for at least six months of the year," he said. "I think that’s good for the Canadian broadcast landscape, I think it’s good for hockey, it’s also a great lead-in for City News which will move to 10 o’clock on Sundays."
As far as his role as the new face of "Hockey Night in Canada," Stroumboulopoulos said he didn’t expect to change things that much. He stressed that he expects to stay out of analysis and focus on his strengths as an interviewer.
"I’m just going to bring me to the team," he said. "I am who I am, I have my life experiences, and my professional experiences.
"But I don’t think that the way the show has been done needs to be … like, ‘Oh, let’s bring in the new guy and get something drastically different.’ That’s not what I do. I just come here to be hopefully a quality host to the show that can put everybody else in a position to shine."

domain: news


text:
I want a banner made, yours look great!
Images: I need a Shiny Lucario, a Shiny Gliscor, and a Shiny Mamoswine.
Examples would be: Lucario.
I don't really want that exact image, you can use it if you have to. But I don't want it to be 2D, I want it to be 3D or 3D looking. And a Male Rich Trainer. I want the Rich Trainer to be really big. But it has to be real close. I want the Lucario, Gliscor, and Mamoswine right behind him. They need to be real big too. I want Lucario to be showing the most. Keep the Pokemon and Trainer to the right maybe use a majority of the left 200x200 image for this.
Background: I want the Sinnoh Battle Frontier as the background, not the game one, like the art pictures of it. Like this
. Keep this to the left, don't have most of it covered by the Pokemon and Trainer. Have this spread out through both 200x200 images.
Size: Split it into two 200x200 images.
Text: I want it in a darker color, not black though. I don't have a specific type of text. I'd like one of the good types. Not too fancy and not too cartoon like. You know the real simple Banners some people have with a single person or Pokemon and a single word or sentence? Usually a text kinda like that. If you don't know what I'm talking about maybe show me a sample or two if you feel like it. I want it to say:
In really big text: "ZF911"
And in a size about 1/4 of the big text(not too small though) that says: "Think you can beat me?"
Have the text to the right of the Pokemon and Trainer and not directly over the middle of the Battle Frontier Image.
Extra: Not much left, thanks in advance.

domain: artistic


Metalcraft Marine is a happy, prosperous LOCAL company producing state of the art fireboats that no city/port has ever regretted buying. I get to walk by their original factory, (still very busy), every time I walk downtown & when I'm not rushed for time, I check to see what's floating at their docks. Sometimes, the shed doors are open & you can see the hulls being worked on.
They've held a few open houses & proudly displayed their work spaces & craft in various stages of construction. I've rarely seen staff so proud to discuss what they work on & WHERE they work. I love it when I'm near the waterfront & they're testing their boats, especially the water hoses.
These aren't cheap but worth every cent. The company is quite capable of & happy to integrate different security functions - they do a few really cool iterations of HazMat ready boats as well:
***Order a Turkish delight
Kingston's MetalCraft Marine recently announced it has secured a multimillion-dollar contract to build and deliver three Firestorm 50 fireboats for the city of Istanbul, Turkey.
According to a news release from MetalCraft Marine, the trio of boats will provide the Istanbul Fire Department with the latest marine firefighting technology available.
The three fireboats, which will be constructed in Kingston and Cape Vincent, N.Y., will provide Istanbul, a city of just over 14 million people, with a level of security it currently does not have for one of the busiest ports in the world, located on the coast of the Sea of Marmara at the Bosporus Strait near the Black sea.
MetalCraft said the Istanbul Fire Department spent a year "defining their very tight specification" to meet their exacting needs, looking at other MetalCraft fireboats operating at such U.S. ports in San Diego, Seattle and Houston.
Istanbul officials, said the release, like the options of having three identical boats to help with familiarity with the firefighting equipment in staffing, training and maintenance.
MetalCraft said its Firestorm 50 is the fastest fireboat and has the highest pumping capacity of any 15-metre fireboat in the world.
MetalCraft has built about 100 Firestorm, Firebrand and Fire Rescue boats since 2002 and has provided boats to many major U.S. ports, such as New York City, Boston and Miami.
The hull of the first boat is currently under construction at its Sir John A. Macdonald Boulevard shop.
Bob Clark, contracts manager for the boat builder, said Tuesday his Turkish customers were very meticulous in their due diligence before awarding the contract to MetalCraft Marine. Turkish officials wanted to ensure that MetalCraft Marine's Workers' Compensation was up to date, government filings were done and all taxes were paid, among other stipulations.
"It was really quite unusual and quite different from what we've seen before," Clark said.
It helped that the local boat builder had a local sales agent in Istanbul familiar with what the port needed in terms of fireboats and what MetalCraft could provide. The Turkish sales agent was also educated at McGill University in Montreal.
"In many countries like Turkey, you must have a local rep. They won't deal with you directly internationally," Clark said.
As well, it was the durability of the boats that convinced Istanbul Fire Department officials to commit to the contract.
A Firestorm 50 was delivered around 2004 for the Miami-Dade Fire Department in Florida. Since then, that boat has been busy fighting hundreds of fires on shore and on small commercial freighters on their way to and from the Caribbean.
"That boat's been a workhorse for them and they have 10,000 hours on it," Clark said. "That's a massive number of hours using the boat."
The Firestorm 50 travels at 40 knots full speed and can pump more than 30,000 litres of water a minute. That's a very large amount of water, Clark said.
He describes the contract from Turkey as very good for the local business.
Clark said he couldn't divulge the exact price of the boats because that information is part of the contract, but he confirmed it was a multimillion-dollar deal.
"It's one of our high-volume deals; it's a lot of revenue per boat."
Clark said building three identical boats side by side will save costs as well.
Some other projects on the go for MetalCraft Marine include a 13.7-metre work boat for Imperial Oil that will be used around the tarsands in Northern Alberta, as well as boats for the Canadian Navy and a large contract for 70 small boats for the U.S. navy.
Many of the boats MetalCraft will build at its Cape Vincent shop will be for work boats for the navy and U.S. Coast Guard for oil spill response.
Since the Deep Water Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico in April 2010, U.S. agencies realized they did not have enough vessels to battle an oil spill.
Clark said the navy and U.S. Coast Guard used every available boat they had for oil spill response.
"They flew them in from other countries."
Clark said the small boats had a hard time battling the conditions in the gulf and many were damaged beyond repair.
"Some of these oil spill response boats are not designed around sea states. They're designed for flat water and getting the oil booms out," he said.
MetalCraft Marine built about 30 boats to replace the old crafts, and another 40 boats are being built for U.S. military bases that are stationed on water. Clark said those bases handle a lot of petroleum products and need to have these boats available in case of a spill.
"They want to make sure that they never have a catastrophic mistake happen to them," he said.
In order to get U.S. navy and U.S. Coast Guard contracts, at least 51 per cent of the boat must be built stateside, and the majority of the hull and super structure must be put together south of the border as well.
Other boats under construction at MetalCraft include 46 8.8-metre patrol boats for the Bangladesh army, and a 19.8-metre glass-bottomed boat for Blue Heron Tours from Tobermory, Ont., at the top of the Bruce Peninsula.
Clark also said a Donald Trump presidency could be good for MetalCraft Marine's business and its 84 Kingston employees and 16 in Cape Vincent.
"He wants a 300-ship navy because we'll put all the small boats on those ships," Clark said...***