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May 15, 2008 in Business
Business in brief: Itron lands big meter contract
A major Texas electric utility has signed a deal to start using advanced metering systems developed by Liberty Lake-based Itron Inc.
CenterPoint Energy Inc., based in Houston, has agreed to use Itron's OpenWay, smart-metering technology that manages information about energy consumption.
No contract terms were released. The proposal must be approved by the Public Utility Commission of Texas.
The deal would result in CenterPoint Energy installing up to 250,000 OpenWay "advance metering infrastructure" meters beginning in the second half of 2009. The contract says CenterPoint Energy could eventually purchase as many as 2 million meters.
– Tom Sowa
Times share may be sold
The head of the newspaper chain that has a 49.5 percent interest in the Seattle Times Co. said he's willing to sell McClatchy's share.
"Long-term, we would be open to selling," McClatchy President and Chief Executive Gary Pruitt said in response to a shareholder's question at the company's annual meeting Tuesday in Sacramento, Calif. Pruitt said he had communicated McClatchy's willingness to sell to the Blethen family, which controls 50.5 percent.
McClatchy spokeswoman Elaine Lintecum said the most important phrase in Pruitt's comment was "long-term." The company has not put its stake in the Times on the market.
Newspaper analyst John Morton of Silver Springs, Md., told the Seattle Times that he's not sure if anyone would be interested in buying the Times other than the Blethen family, "and I'm not sure they have the money."
Times spokeswoman Corey Digiacinto said Pruitt's remarks "aren't a reflection of any change." She declined further comment.
– Associated Press
Recyclers pay storage fine
A Seattle-based recycling company that stored hazardous waste in Montana without a permit has paid a $67,500 state penalty, the Montana Department of Environmental Quality said Wednesday.
Emerald Services was penalized for storing waste in Missoula and Helena well beyond the 10 days allowed without a storage permit.
Paint waste that Emerald Services received in the summer of 2006 was stored at the company's Missoula site for about six months, then was moved to Helena and held there for a little over two months, the DEQ said. The agency learned of the violation during an inspection in March 2007, said John Arrigo, a DEQ administrator.
– Associated Press


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|ISSN 1088-6826(online) ISSN 0002-9939(print)
Schur indices in finite quaternion-free groups
Abstract | References | Similar Articles | Additional Information
Abstract: Let be a finite, quaternion-free group with exponent , let be a field of characteristic zero and let be an absolutely irreducible character of . Suppose that a Sylow -subgroup of the Galois group of over is cyclic. It is shown that if is not real valued, then the Schur index of over is odd.
Retrieve articles in Proceedings of the American Mathematical Society with MSC: 20C15
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After the ten day blockade of the Clipper Hope, preventing her from loading pig iron in São Luis do Maranhão. Greenpeace suspended the action. Upon confirmation that the public hearing with representatives of the government and the pig iron industry had begun in Brasilia, the director of the Amazon campaign, Paulo Adario, gave the order to the activists to come down and remove the anchor blockade. The organization is now waiting for positive results from the meeting. Last week, Greenpeace released a report that shows how the chain of production of pig iron leaves a path of destruction in the Amazon.05/24/2012
© Marizilda Cruppe / Greenpeace
Take a peak into an Indonesian peatland forest. We hope this video brings you a moment of peace.
Take a moment to swim with beautiful dolphins, penguins, and seals.
Most footage of the seals and penguins was taken off the coast of New Zealand's sub-Antarctic Auckland Islands.
We hope this video brings you a moment of peace.
Thanks to everyone who keeps sending in these stinkers! Go to http://worstjoke.org to find out how your very worst can save the arctic!
"I shouldn't be alive right now," says Leila Mendez as she looks out her window at the smokestacks billowing just across the way. "And I am." Leila believes that God spared her life so she could stay here and fight: to shut them down.
Lewis Black says "Save the Arctic - I mean it would be nice to have around, won't it?" #worstjoke
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I am fostering a poodle/shih-tsu for a group that operates in Los Angeles and Calgary, Alberta. They rescue dogs from LA shelters, transport to Calgary, foster, and adopt to new families.
This girl I'm fostering was obviously loved by someone. SO gentle, so amazing with ...
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Beverly Hills - Lost & found
This is Elvis, He was rescued from High kill shelter in Moreno Valley. He is a wonderful 7 year old Bichon Frise and Poodle Mix otherwise known as "Bichpoo" or "poochon." He was just about to be euthanized when Designer Dog Rescue Swooped him up. In fact his paper worked ...
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Sylmar - Dogs & puppies
My name is Nemo! I'm being cared for by: ALL Animals Rescue Inc.
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The value of international students for Wales
Phil Parry says we must put more emphasis on retaining international students at Universities in Wales.5 Comments
Young people estranged from devolved politicsMar 26, 2015
Ebbi Ferguson says the current debate over devolution excludes younger voters in Wales.6 Comments
The M4 Relief Road: An Inconvenient TruthMar 25, 2015
James Byrne says plans for an M4 Relief Road contradict commitments to tackling climate change.17 Comments
Taking action on climate changeMar 24, 2015
Carl Sargeant outlines how the Welsh Government is committing to tackle climate change.3 Comments
Re-energising WalesMar 23, 2015
Gareth Wyn Jones sets out more detail on the IWA Economy report recommendations for making Wales self-sufficient from sustainable energy2 Comments
Yes, we can
IWA Director Lee Waters outlines the think-tank's latest report on closing the wealth gap between Wales and England
Posted: Mar 22, 2015 | 22 Comments
English devolution is lacking political leadership
Graham Allen says attempts to devolve power in England have so far only tinkered around the edges of what's needed.
Posted: Mar 19, 2015 | 5 Comments
Have we had enough devolution in Wales?
Voters in north Wales debate whether we need less or more devolution.
Posted: Mar 19, 2015 | 6 Comments
Can we deliver the ambition?
Anna McMorrin says the real test for the Future Generations Bill will be whether it delivers on its aims.
Posted: Mar 18, 2015 | 3 Comments
Plaid an also ran in seven-horse race?
Stephen Cushion and Gordon Neil Ramsay suggest minor parties are being squeezed out of election coverage
Posted: Mar 18, 2015 | 14 Comments
Should we have a moratorium on devolution in Wales to concentrate on performance?
Anne Wareham says we should put performance ahead of powers.
Posted: Mar 17, 2015 | 22 Comments
Time for Wales' creative sector to 'open up'
Rhodri Talfan Davies says the creative industries in Wales have to work harder to disprove perceptions that they're a 'closed shop'
Posted: Mar 16, 2015 | 9 Comments


text:
A ribbon for a thermal printer has a series of frames of different colors in a sequence that are correlated to the position of cards to be printed. The ribbon has indexing marks for each frame and also indicators for each repeating sequence of frames. The index marks are arranged in a line across the ribbon and the marks can be coded to individually indicate the color or other characteristic of the frame associated with the line of index mark. This information is received by a controller to control various printer functions.
1. A printer for printing images on a substrate, comprising a rotatable platen for receiving and moving a substrate therewith; a print head adjacent the platen and selectively operable to print images on the substrate; a movable web with a series of frames of different colors of transferable material arranged in a repeated sequence, said web having discrete index marks thereon indicating boundaries between adjacent frames, the discrete index marks being arranged in a series of a plurality of separately identifiable discrete and adjacent index marks along a line extending in a direction laterally across the web; a sensor for sensing and identifying the index marks as the web moves as guided by the platen and a controller; said controller receiving signals indicating the velocity of the web passing through the printer, and the sensor sensing the time for passage of selected ones of the index marks indicating boundaries correlated with the velocity of the web, to determine the length between selected boundaries on the ribbon, the controller determining the web stretch and panel length variation by comparing the determined length to a nominal length between the same selected boundaries.
2. The printer of
3. The printer of
4. The printer of
5. The printer of
6. The printer of
7. The printer of
8. The printer of
9. The printer of
10. The printer of
11. The printer of
12. The method of determining an actual length of a portion of a printer ribbon having index marks at spaced locations along the length of the ribbon and driven in a longitudinal direction, comprising determining the velocity of the ribbon as it moves in the longitudinal direction, determining the time of passage of a ribbon length between selected index marks as the ribbon moves in the longitudinal direction, correlating the velocity signal with the time of passage between said selected index marks to determine the length of the ribbon between the index marks as it is moving in the longitudinal direction, comparing the length as determined with a reference nominal length between the index marks.
13. The method of
14. The method of
15. The method of
16. A printer for printing images on a substrate, comprising a rotatable platen for receiving and moving a substrate therewith; a print head adjacent the platen and selectively operable to print images on the substrate; a movable web with a series of frames of different colors of transferable material arranged in a repeated sequence, said web having discrete index marks thereon indicating boundaries between adjacent frames, the discrete index marks being arranged in a series of a plurality of separately identifiable discrete and adjacent index marks along a line extending in a direction laterally across the web; a sensor for sensing and identifying the index marks as the web moves as guided by the platen and a controller; said controller receiving signals indicating the velocity of the web passing through the printer, and the sensor sensing the time for passage of selected ones of the index marks indicating boundaries correlated with the velocity of the web, to determine the length between selected boundaries on the ribbon, the controller determining the web strength by comparing the determined length to a nominal length between the same boundaries.
Reference is made to the U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/111,485, filed Dec. 7, 1998.
The present invention relates to an identification coding for print ribbons and other ribbons or webs that have individual segments or panels that are different from other segments and must be positively identified for desired operations in a printer or other apparatus. In particular the coding is used between groups of colors on a color printing ribbon and also between individual frames of different colors, which gives individual controls for a wide variety of functions.
The thermal print ribbons that are presently used in thermal printers are divided into different color dye carrying frames, panels, blocks or segments. Thermal printers require a sensing system, which is capable of identifying the location of the individual colored panel or frames of the web or ribbon used, as well as the start of each group or sequence of the color dye panels or frames.
The ribbon is held against a platen that is rotatable, and the ribbon moves with the platen during printing, when a thermal printing head engages the ribbon and causes transfer of a colored dye onto a card or substrate positioned between the ribbon and the platen, and which is also moving with the platen. The printing sequence is carried out under a central control that receives signals indicating the presence of a card or other substrate on which the information is to be printed, and also receiving signals indicating what color frame of the ribbon is in position under the print head and for lining up or registering the card and ribbon.
In the past, index marks had been used along the side edges of the ribbon for indicating when the sequence of different color frames starts and is repeated, and also to indicate the boundaries between adjacent frames of different colors of transferrable dye material. In operation the web is advanced until an index mark is detected to indicate that a transferrable color material is in position for printing.
The ribbon or web is advanced and rewound under control of the printer controller for one group or sequence of repeatable frames, to obtain the desired image on the card using the dyes on the ribbon or web. The operation is carried out a predetermined number of times so the same sequence of frames is used for printing multiple color images. After an entire sequence of frames is used for printing a color image, the web is advanced until an index mark is sensed for the next sequence of colored frames, thereby bringing the beginning of a sequence of frames in position for printing.
The present invention relates to an identification coding for a web or ribbon using laterally extended code markings between each of the color frames or segments on the ribbon that are sequenced along the ribbon length. The code is preferably in the form of readable printed dots, dashes or bars that extend laterally across the web or strip of ribbon at the start of the ribbon, between individual frames or segments, and also between repeating groups or sequences of frames. The code location and arrangement permits a wide range of identification marks to be sensed for determining the ribbon lot and dye set marks at the start of a ribbon and to indicate the color of a following frame or panel on the ribbon. These marks can be used to set the printhead controls, to adjust the printhead for ribbon density, type of color layers and similar known variables. Also, the code provides information to insure the correct ribbon or web is installed. The ribbon can also be identified by a discrete code to register the web or ribbon to a particular card printer. By using sensors to determine ribbon velocity or tension can be controlled to compensate for ribbon stretch, thus also permitting compensating or changing the ribbon tension for accommodating panel to panel variations. The code location permits determining when the leading edge of the known, repeating group, series or sequence of frames is sensed, as well.
The code selected permits a variety of printing techniques for the application of the code and also permits a wide variety of sensors for decoding. Light signals are used in one embodiment using a known source of light, and known sensor arrays that provide digital signals to the controller indicating the information about the following frames. With present sensors the presence or absence of a mark in a particular location of the sensed image provides a digital indication of the applied code and the resolution is adequate to provide more information than that needed for color printers.
In one form, the laterally extending code strips can be formed with white ink marks so a reflected light signal will be used. Sense and receive sensors can be on the same side of the ribbon. The operator can provide codes for many different conditions, since the laterally extending bands or marks provide a substantial space for such coded information. The coded information at the start of a ribbon can indicate whether the ribbon or web is compatible with the printer in which it is installed and thus different compatibilities of ribbons can be created to give different customers proprietary ribbon.
A further aspect of having markings for each individual color panel or frame is to use the color signal, which may indicate a color having different densities from other colors, to provide a feedback to the printhead power control for adjustment of the printhead power to suit the color being printed.
FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a thermal printer head and ribbon shown in use with an index code and code sensor made according to an embodiment of the invention;
FIG. 2 is a plan view of a typical segment of frames of a thermal dye transfer ribbon have an information code shown thereon;
FIG. 3 is a side view of a ribbon with one form of code sensors illustrated schematically;
FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of a second form of code sensors;
FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram representation of the ribbon or web drive and control, and sensors used for sensing positions of a card being printed and of the ribbon used;
FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram representation of sensor inputs used with a controller for controlling the various motors and functions of the printer;
FIG. 7 is a block diagram representation of method of providing ribbon status based on actual length between index marks; and
FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing control of thermal printhead power based on ribbon dye status.
FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a printer 10 using a strip or web of ribbon 12 that is provided from a supply roll 14 and extends to a take-up roll 16, and passes over a rotatable and driven printing platen 18. The platen is rotatably driven by a motor 20 under central control from a printer controller 22.
The ribbon take up roller 16 is driven by a motor 17, which also can be synchronized with a drive for the supply roller and controlled by the printer controller 22.
A card or substrate of any desired kind on which color images are to be printed is indicated at 24 and is provided from a card supply and card feed 23 in a conventional manner. The card 24 is supported on and driven in its path by suitable drive and guide rollers 26 and 28 at the input and output ends of the platen 18. The drive and guide rollers 26 and 28 can be driven in unison through suitable motors 30, under control from the printer controller 22. Spring loaded pinch rollers can be used with rollers 26 and 28, in a conventional manner as well for controlling movement of the card 24.
As the card 24 approaches the platen 18 in a sequence of operations for printing information on the card, a card sensor 32 will sense the leading edge of the card to provide position information back to the printer controller 22 for operation and proper timing with the ribbon and print head.
A printer web or ribbon supply velocity sensor is also shown, so that the velocity of the web or ribbon coming off the printer web or ribbon supply roller 14 is known. The velocity sensor shown at 25 includes a typical rotating disc 25A driven by the supply roll as it rotates, and an encoder or sensor 25B that provides pulses indicating the speed of rotation of the web or ribbon supply roll 14. By correlating the rotational information with the amount of ribbon remaining, which can be done by counting the frames or panels that come off the supply roll, the velocity of the ribbon is provided as a signal from the sensor 25B.
A conventional thermal print head 34 is supported on a suitable frame 36 and is aligned with the platen 18 in a normal manner. The print ribbon or web 12 passes underneath the print head and above the platen 18. The ribbon or web is in registry with the card 24 on which printing is to take place, as the card moves with the platen between the print head and the platen. The ribbon also moves with the card 24 and platen 18. The platen 18 is on the opposite side of the card 24 from the print web or ribbon.
The print ribbon 12 is shown as a thermal dye sublimation or resin ribbon that is divided up into individual, different color frames, panels or segments along its length. These frames or panels repeat in a sequence or group. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, a yellow frame or panel is indicated at 38 and by Y. Panel 38 is followed by a magenta frame or panel 40 represented as M. A cyan frame or panel 42 is represented at C, and a clear or see-through frame or panel 44 is represented as O. These colors then repeat in the next series of frames. In addition, a black resin frame or panel can be provided in the sequence of the colored frames, if desired.
In the present invention, the print ribbon width is known, as indicated by W in FIG. 2, and at the end of each individual frame or panel, and thus the beginning of each of the next individual different colored frames or panels, there is a band 46 indicated on which an index or code line 58 is printed or otherwise recorded, thereby providing indexing marks or coding. The term marks or indicia as used herein means one or more or a series of printed dots, dashes or lines that are spaced in a manner compatible with a sensor array so that the presence or absence of a mark in a particular region of the indexing or coding line will provide significant information about the following frame or frames (or panels) on the ribbon. When the position and sequence of the marks are determined, the marks will identify the following frames or sequence of frames or panels from a coding scheme selected by the user.
At the lead in end of the ribbon, there is a code band or line 51 (see FIG. 2) that is used for providing coded information relating to the web or ribbon characteristics, so that the �lot� of the ribbon is indicated right on the ribbon or web itself, and the dye set used for preparing the web is also provided, so the characteristics of the colored frames or panels can be determined. This information from the code band 51 is sensed by suitable sensors that are used, as will be discussed, and can provide signals back to the controller 22 so that the power provided along a power connection indicator at 37 can be carried to the printhead 34 initially as a function of the coded information of the band 51. If the dye set is of a character that requires more power or more heat to provide an adequate transfer, the power to the print head can be adjusted to provide additional power (or less power) to heaters in the printhead as needed.
The code band 51 can also be used for providing data for insuring that the ribbon or web is compatible with the printer in which it is to be installed, so that there is no error in introducing the ribbon into the printer itself.
The marks used for the code on the band can be a conventional bar coding arrangement or other code, and the dashes or lines used can be oriented parallel to the longitudinal direction of the ribbon or parallel to the transverse center line of the band. The lines of index or code marks are in band that extends laterally across the web or ribbon.
The sequence of information marks for example can be the coding arrangement disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,755,519, the contents of which is incorporated herein by reference, insofar as the coding sequence for providing information is concerned. The coding arrangement of providing a �start� segment or indicator at one end of the line of marks on the ribbon, and then code or index sectors in the line to provide identification of the panel frame following, would be linear, laterally across the ribbon, instead of in an annular configuration as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,755,519. The present invention permits more information to be coded on the ribbon than prior art devices.
A sensor assembly 50 is utilized in order to read the infrared ink coded information which could represent a number of different types of information, including a start position for identification of the start of the code and the like. Sensor assembly 50 includes a tubular shield housing 52 that is mounted onto the frame of the printer, in a suitable manner such as with a bracket 55. The shield housing 52 has a infrared LED 54 mounted onto the side wall thereof in a suitable location.
The LED 54 extends through the wall of the shield and is focused (a lens can be used if desired) so that a spot of infrared radiation or light indicated at 56 will strike the transverse band of code marks formed in a code band or line 58 between individual frames or panels on the ribbon 12. The infrared ink coding on band 58 is made so that it will luminesce in the spot of radiation or light on the ribbon from the infrared LED 54.
An infrared sensor array of conventional design indicated at 60 is mounted at a suitable location spaced from the web or ribbon 12 but in position so that it will receive reflected light signals from the illuminated infrared ink coding on band 58. The light signals are sensed in sensor cells by the sensor array and normally the array will be able to sense whether there is light or no light in 128 pixels, with a resolution of 400 dpi using a sensor such as Texas Instrument Inc., Part No. TSL 401. The presence or absence of light in the cells or segments sensed will be processed in order to determine the sequence of regions in the code length that are either coated with infrared ink or left plain. The information is digitally decoded so that the color of the next frame on the ribbon is determined. This information is provided to the central printer controller 22.
Referring to FIG. 4, it can be seen that the coding for the ribbon can also be varied to be compatible with different types of sensors. In FIG. 4, a ribbon 70 is illustrated as having white ink or reflective metallic marks or lines 72 thereon, which can be on one of the transverse code bands. A send and receive sensor assembly indicated at 74 provides a light signal directed toward the ribbon as indicated by the line 76, and when a white ink or reflective metallic coded band that extends transversely to the ribbon such as that shown at 72 is sensed, a reflected light beam 78 will be received by the sensor 74 for providing the information that is coded onto this reflective, white ink band. The send/receive light sensors are known in the art.
The color of the panel that is ahead of or that follows the white ink band will be different from the white band that reflects light. Thus, the white ink band can be differentiated from the background and will provide a reflected light signal. Information is coded in the transverse bands using different reflective segments for indicating the color of the panel that is following and other information.
Additionally, information concerning the start of the repeatable sequence of frames is provided, either by the coding of the code line of infrared ink or white ink marks or indicia indicated at 58 or by a separate sensor such as a yellow LED 64 shown schematically in FIG. 2, that would read information relating to the ribbon. The yellow LED indicates when a yellow frame or panel 38 approached the platen 18.
In any event, the information from the card leading edge sensor 32 and the information from the code band or line 58 is used in the printer controller to make sure that the card 24 that is being fed to the platen 18 will be positioned so that it comes under the print head at the proper location relative to the leading color frame on the print ribbon. The printing operation will continue according to the desired program once the card and the ribbon are properly indexed, using the information from the sensor array 60.
Instead of having a reflective type of sensing array using an infrared LED 54 above the ribbon, light sources, such as that shown at 66 in FIG. 3 could be on the opposite side of the ribbon or web from that shown. The ribbon 12A in FIG. 3 has a bar code sequence in bands between the color panels or frames, and transmitted light coming through the open spaces in the pattern can be used as a suitable known bar code sensed by the sensing array 68.
When the ribbon or web is manufactured and printed with the marks forming the code in the transverse bands, the web is usually in a wide roll, and then is slit into the individual strips such as that shown at 12. The line of code marks or indicia 58 that is provided on an individual strip would be repeated across the wide ribbon roll at suitable intervals so the there would be a code line 58 on each of the strips. Code marks would thus be present on each of the slit strips when they are removed or separated from the wide supply roll. The identification of the start of the coded sequence of marks of each line of code insures that the sensing array will record the information accurately even if the code line may not be exactly in the same lateral location on each of the strips 12 which are slit from a wide supply roll, due to manufacturing tolerances. The length of the line used for the code is shorter than the width of the ribbon, even though bands or lines 58 are shown as extending across the entire ribbon or web in the drawings.
In place of the supply roll 14 and the take-up roll 16, a ribbon cassette can be used, and such cassette is indicated at dotted lines at 62. It merely mounts the ribbon, the take-up roll and the supply roll in a single housing that can be introduced into the printer easily.
With the use of a ribbon or web velocity sensor, such as that shown at 25, and also shown schematically in FIG. 5 at 25 and 5, the velocity of the ribbon 80 shown in FIG. 5 can be determined, and with the sensor array 82 or 52 being utilized, the information provided by the sensor 82 from two coded index bands in a sequence can be used to determine the length of each panel of the ribbon. By sensing the velocity, and measuring the elapsed time between the passage of a first band of marks past the sensor 82 (or the other array as shown in the other forms of the invention) and the next band or marks indicating the start of the next panel, the actual length between the bands identifying one or more color panels on the ribbon can be calculated in the controller, which may be a micro-processor. The length as measured can be referenced to the nominal or no tension length of the panels which would be a reference input to the controller so the amount of stretch of the ribbon because of the tension created between the supply roll motor shown at M1 in FIGS. 5 and 6 and the take-up motor M3 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. The amount of web tension can be regulated by adjusting the torque of motors M1 and M2 to compensate for ribbon stretch. The amount of stretch measured can be used in controlling the ribbon during printing to insure that the full panel of that color is utilized. Knowing the ribbon or web velocity and time of passage of one panel between the sensed transverse index marks also permits compensation of the printer for variations in panel length when the ribbon was manufactured, because it is possible to have a real-time determination of the length of each panel. If a panel of color is longer or shorter than the normal length, the platen for the printhead can be driven so the full panel is moved under the printhead. The platen drive can be adjusted by the controller if the color panel is longer or shorter.
Coordination between the sensor 82 (S2) in FIG. 5, and the card edge sensor (which senses the leading of the card) indicated at 84 (S3) in FIG. 5 and also indicated at 32 with the sensor array 60 in FIG. 1 for locating an index mark band, can be used for precisely indexing the card 86 shown at FIG. 5 with the appropriate leading edge of a color panel or frame or series of color panels on the ribbon 80.
As stated previously, the individual colors are also coded differently so that each panel color is identified, and through the controller 22 shown in FIG. 6, the power to the printhead heater (P and 34) along the power control line is adjusted for different densities of colors that are present. For example, orange may be more intense than yellow and thus, requires more power. The controller will provide the power.
The controller 22 will also compensate for ribbon stretch, and can adjust the ribbon tension during operation as desired, depending on ribbon strength as well. The ribbon strength can be determined by the amount of stretch, by again sensing with the sensor 82 the time that it takes for one panel to pass (or one whole series of panels to pass), and the velocity of the ribbon will be known by use of the velocity sensor 25. The velocity sensor 25 will also compensate for the differences in diameter of the ribbon remaining on the supply spool.
As shown in FIG. 7, the process used for adjusting the driver based upon measured lengths of panels that are available with the index marks of the present invention are illustrated.
The first step is to determine the ribbon velocity as noted in block 200, and then to determine the time of passage of the ribbon between two index marks on the ribbon as shown at 202. This time of passage is measured by an internal clock in the controller 22, which is a micro-processor, and is responsive to a start signal from one of the index marks on the ribbon and a stop signal from another index mark. It should be noted that these index marks do not necessarily have to be only one frame or panel long, but could be several frames if desired for various purposes. Once that measured is done, the micro-processor will calculate the length of the ribbon between the sensed index marks using straight arithmetic process based on time, distance and speed. This is illustrated at block 204.
In block 206, it is shown that there is a comparison of the calculated length between the index marks with a reference length, such as a nominal length provided by the manufacturer, or some other input that is provided as a reference length.
The comparison that takes place at block 206 then can be used for providing an adjustment of the ribbon tension by having controller 22 adjust the motors M1 and M2, and their relative speed as shown at the block 208.
Additionally, the ribbon strength can be determined by calculating the amount of ribbon stretch with some other information such as the thickness of the ribbon and the material of the ribbon, as shown at block 210, or the platen drive speed and length of film driven can be adjusted as shown at block 212 so that with the knowledge of the actual length of the ribbon color panel or frame, the amount of movement of the color panel under the printhead, as a result of movement of the platen can be adjusted to make sure that the entire color panel is utilized for printing, even if the panel is stretched, or is slightly smaller than normal. This can be done individually by each color panel. Alternatively, ribbon tension can be sensed and used for adjustment.
Additionally, as shown in FIG. 8, the process of adjusting the printhead thermal power or heater power is shown, and it includes determining the ribbon dye lot from the index marks as indicated at block 220 and then adjusting the thermal power to the printhead as shown at block 222. This adjustment also can be based upon a determination of the panel color density based on the index marks as shown by block 224, which would then be used for adjusting the printhead thermal power as well.
The methods thus can be used for real time adjustment of the printhead power based upon the color that is being printed at a particular time.
The description has been simplified to show how a laterally extending code line of marks permits a wide variety of information to be provided, but other arrangements can be used. The inks that can be used for providing the code line 58 can be inks that will fluoresce at a different frequency than other inks. Thus the code lines can be formed of several different frequency sensitive inks and a sensor using selected frequency light will respond to a particular ink, so identification of the frames can be by detecting the frequency at which the ink fluoresces. Thus each different frequency response could show a different location.
The use of the laterally extending bands or lines of code marks permits a wide variety of combinations of indicators. The lines can be frame indicators only with a separate sensor for the start of each sequence; the lines can be coded for indicating a frame and the start of the repeating frame sequence and have a separate indicator code for such a frame sequence start signal; a separate sensor can be used for the start of each frame and the transverse code line used for indicating a start of the repeating sequence only; or a separate sensor can be used to indicate the start of the repeating sequence and each frame can be coded as to its individual color using the transverse line of code marks.
The code information can be processed by the controller 22 so the proper colors are used for printing on the card or substrate, such as paper. Other uses of coded information include verifying that the correct ribbon is installed for the current print job or that the correct ribbon is installed for a specific printer. Further, the leading band of marks can provided information to indicate that the ribbon is inserted in the printer correctly and is not reversed or upside down or backwards.
The coding disclosed allows slitting the wide ribbon with no waste since no side edge portion of the ribbon is needed for coding or index marks. Also, accuracy is enhanced with the present invention since the sensing system senses each frame before it is used for printing.
Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
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Tyrese Gibson's ex-wife, Norma Mitchell, is opening up about their messy divorce and custody battle. Gibson expressed concerns at the premiere of Furious 7 that Mitchell would flee the…
10-Year-Old Mikaila Ulmer Gets $60K Investment From 'Shark Tank'
The lemonade business has an adorable new entrepreneur who's only ten-years-old! As the founder of her own BeeSweet Lemonade line, Mikaila Ulmer on confidently represented her brand on…
In Studio Jam: Kenny Lattimore
Watch & Share: Kenny Lattimore performs live in the Tom Joyner Morning Show Studios.
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CHICAGO (AP) — The Rev. Jesse Jackson says his son, former U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., has been released from an Alabama prison after serving…
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I got some questions after reading the answer to this thread Handling Pointer-to-Pointer Ownership Issues in ARC;
For demo 1, when a reference to a 'strong' attributed variable is passed, a hidden(__autoreleasing) variable is implicitly created and the object doesn't get retained. However for demo 4, when a reference to a 'weak' attributed variable is passed, the object does get retained once.
So my question is quite simple as just my curiosity, why only the hidden variable created from '__weak' gets the object retain+1? Is this pattern designed for any special concerns?
Hoping I explain my question clearly, any help will be appreciated.


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LOOKING for: favorite recipes
What is your ABSOLUTE favorite vegetarian recipe...have you ever fed it to a non-vegetarian who likes it just as much?
I'm not sure I have an absolute favorite, but this is close. And my entire family loves it. Hubby never misses the meat! (If you don't eat dairy, you can use whatever normal substitutions you make for the sour cream and cheese)
Mexican Pizza
2 prepared 12-inch Pizza Crusts (I use's Boboli's)
16-oz. can Refried Beans
1 package Taco Seasoning Mix
1/4 cup Sour Cream
1 large Green Onion, thinly sliced
1 cup Cheddar Cheese, grated
1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
1/2 cup sliced Ripe Olives, drained
4-oz. can diced Green Chilies
1 cup prepared Salsa
2 Tbs. fresh Cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup fresh Tomato, chopped
Lettuce, chopped
Red onions, chopped
Cheddar cheese, grated
Sliced Jalapenos, optional garnish
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the refried beans with the taco seasoning mix, sour cream, and green onion slices.
Spread half of the bean mixture over each pizza crust to within about an inch from the edge. Top with a half-cup of the cheddar cheese and a half-cup of the Monterey Jack cheese on each pizza. Sprinkle one-quarter cup of ripe olive slices and one-quarter cup of the green chilies on each pizza.
Bake as directed on the pizza crust manufacturer's package or until the crust is crisp and the cheese is melted.
Top each pizza with several tablespoons of the salsa, then add a sprinkling of cilantro, chopped tomatoes, chopped lettuce, salsa, chopped red onions, grated Cheddar cheese, and jalapenos, if desired. Slice to serve.
I have lots of favorites - and my non-vegetarian family loves tham just as much! My favorite is probably Mushroom Strudel, though it's time consuming. It melts in your mouth, though!!! My favorite dessert is Vegan Chocolate Cake, without tofu, and light and fluffy!
Here is a link that might be useful: Cait's Vegetarian Page


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Anna Kendrick attended the 60th London Evening Standard Theatre Awards held at the London Palladium on Sunday (November 30) in London, England.
The actress, who is gearing up for the promo tour of her latest movie, 'Into The Woods', wore a Burberry Prorsum strapless dress in an autumnal teal-green rendered in design and lace fabric from the Spring 2014 collection.
The mood is graceful and elegant, with the styling consisting of Jimmy Choo strappy sandals and a gold-trimmed black clutch, but it's the hair and makeup that really elevate this look.
While her recent look had her coming off as a tween queen, this is much more like it.
Credit: Getty


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I think your hydrometer is bad. Any water with enough minerals in it to give a 1.006 reading would be undrinkable. (sea water varies from 1.020-1.029). Most hydrometers just have a paper scale that is friction fitted & they can move.
I suspect your brew is at 1.016 and more or less done.
Remember one unassailable statistic, as explained by the late, great George Carlin: "Just think of how stupid the average person is, and then realize half of them are even stupider!"
"I would like to die on Mars, just not on impact." Elon Musk


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The Lok Satta Party on Thursday commenced a signature campaign in the district demanding live telecast of proceedings in the State Legislative Assembly.
S. Narayanan, district organiser of the Lok Satta party, told reporters that the live telecast would enable voters to know how their elected representatives perform in the Assembly and whether they were presenting the grievances promptly.
Besides this, the people could see the response of the Ministers to the issues raised by MLAs.
"Live telecast will bring in more transparency in the governance," Mr. Narayanan said.
The party plans to complete the signature campaign before the month-end and submit the signatures to the State Government.
More In: TAMIL NADU | NATIONAL


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2015 Spring & Summer Guide
With winter finally behind us and looking forward to Spring, please find the 2015 Spring & Summer Guide for North Huntingdon Township. Inside you'll find details for the Braddock's Trail Wildflower Tours, Summer Camps, Discount Park Tickets, Music in the Park and so much more
Easter Eggapalooza
The 2015 Easter Eggapalooza is scheduled for Saturday, March 28th at Oak Hollow Park. This event begins at 11AM until 2PM, with the Egg Hunt at 12 NOON. Please click the following link for more information and remember to bring your own Easter Basket 2015 Easter Eggapalooza.pdf
2015 Spring Yard Waste Collection
The 2015 Spring Yard Waste Collection is scheduled for curbside pick-up by Waste Management during the weeks of April 14th, April 28th, and May 12th. Pick-up is scheduled on your regular day of service and yard waste must be placed in biodegradable bags. Bags must also be placed at the curb by 6:00 A.M.
AARP Tax Aide
The AARP Tax Aide will begin tax service every Tuesday and Thursday beginning on Tuesday, February 3, 2015 through Tuesday, April 14, 2015 from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Please bring 2013 tax returns, current year tax information, proof of social security number, photo id, and information on health insurance if not on Medicare.


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Baltimore, Maryland (PRWEB) December 18, 2014
A form released today by the Maryland Insurance Administration will offer protections to survivors of domestic violence and substantially expand access to healthcare for women and families.
This is a victory for anyone in need of health care who genuinely fears for their safety, and worries what might happen if their personal health insurance information (Explanation of Benefits) is shared with the policyholder, said State Senator Delores Kelley (D-10), the legislations chief sponsor.
Maryland is one of the first in the nation to ensure privacy of confidential medical information in insurance communications for those seeking reproductive health care, mental health treatment, or medical treatment or counseling due to domestic violence.
We regularly see patients who are fearful, and delay or avoid treatment, or pay exorbitant out-of-pocket costs for care routinely covered by their insurance, rather than risk what might happen if the policyholder were to find out about their medical treatment, said Jenny Black, CEO of Planned Parenthood of Maryland.
I was personally involved in a case in which the husband beat his wife to death due to information he received in the Explanation of Benefits, said Lorraine Diana, a Maryland Nurse Practitioner when she testified in Annapolis in support of the legislation.
As staunch advocates of patient rights, Planned Parenthood of Maryland led the successful bipartisan campaign for passage of Senate Bill 790 Communications Between Carriers and Enrollees Conformity with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. The Maryland General Assembly unanimously passed SB 790, advancing the use of privacy protections already in place under HIPAA. The Governor signed the bill into law on April 8, 2014.
The form released today by the Maryland Insurance Administration provides individuals who feel endangered the means to protect their privacy. Once signed and submitted, the form instructs insurance companies to forward all insurance communications to an address provided by the patient as opposed to the address determined by the policyholder.
Our job now is to raise public awareness of these legal protections and encourage survivors of domestic violence and others to access any needed medical treatment, Black said.
We believe that this one page form will foster a sense of safety among those living in fear and ultimately save lives.
Download the new form at the Planned Parenthood of Maryland website.
The mission of Planned Parenthood of Maryland is to enable all Marylanders to have access to a wide range of high quality affordable reproductive health care services. By providing medical services, education, training and advocacy, PPM seeks to help individuals make informed decisions about their reproductive health, family planning options and sexuality.


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Traveling with your pooch is easy with these pet-friendly hotels
Traveling with your pet can become a truly enjoyable experience at any of the pet friendly hotels Orlando has to offer. No more expensive kennel reservations, no more worrying if your pet is getting the attention and care that they need when you stay at pet-friendly hotel. Take for example Universal's Loews Royal Pacific Resort, its property is magnificent and guests feel as if they are staying on a beautiful island in the South Pacific surrounded by lush tropical landscaping. Relax by the lake or explore every inch of the grounds by taking Fido for a walk. To enjoy a more VIP vacation with your pooch, check out the Hard Rock Hotel. Here pets and their humans are placed in special pet-friendly rooms to ensure your miniature love has everything they could need. Also, certain services are set up for your comfort such as the daily room cleaning. Spend a day outside on the ample grounds of the Vista Cay Resort. These townhouse offer plenty of indoor space and the property has numerous outdoor places to play. For a stress-free and pet-friendly property, book a room at the Wyndham Resort Orlando. Let your furry friend lounging in the sun on the grassy areas or take a stroll around the lagoon running through the property. The pet friendly hotels in Orlando have everything you and your pet need for a comfortable stay. The next time you book a vacation remind you dont have to leave your pets behind.
10 Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
The Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa Orlando is a home away from home. They provide guests all of the comforts of a fully furnished home with accommodations ranging from studios to large four-bedroom suites. If you are looking for family friendly activities check out their tennis, basketball and volleyball courts or pick up a round of miniature golf hotel course. Rent bicycles to glide around the property or hit up the action packed game room. There hotel also offers a complete spa, seven outdoor pools, and several dining options. Pets under 60 lbs. are allowed at the Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa.
9 Castle Hotel
The Castle Orlando is located on International Drive, in the heart of Orlando's shopping, entertainment, and dining district. This Orlando accommodation has much to offer, from gourmet in-house dining to access to local activities like golf, tennis, horseback riding, canoeing, water skiing, and kayaking. Guests at The Castle Orlando are provided air conditioning, cable TV, a work desk, a phone with voicemail, coffeemakers, hairdryers, an iron and ironing board, and movies on demand. Guests enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, an ATM, laundry facilities, business services, a multilingual staff, and babysitting services. Restaurants nearby include The Caf-- Tu Tu Tango which cooks up Latin, American, Asian, and Caribbean cuisine, while Vito's Chop House cooks steaks and the Castle Caf-- makes breakfast. Small pets are allowed for a US$75 non-refundable fee. Oh, and did we mention this hotel is shaped like a castle?
8 Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando
Located on International Drive, the Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando offers easy access to theme parks, restaurants, shops, and movie theaters. Complimentary shuttle services are offered to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Sea World, Wet N' Wild, and Rosen Shingle Creek Golf Course. The 1020 rooms at the Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando provide standard amenities like air conditioning, a telephone with voicemail, a mini fridge, a microwave, a coffeemaker, a radio alarm clock, high speed Internet access, a hair dryer, a iron and ironing board, and television.The Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando offers plenty of amenities to make visitors comfortable. Pets are allowed for an additional fee.
7 Doubletree Resort International Drive Orlando
The Doubletree Resort International Drive Orlando is set up on 28 acres of greenery and tropical gardens. Not only is does it boast beautiful scenery but it is also conveniently located, being near Orlando powerhouses like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and the Orange County Convention Center. Amenities for the hotel include 60,000 square feet of conferencing or banqueting space, as well as a lagoon/waterfall pool, a swimming pool, fitness room and spa center. The on-site restaurant is called the Bamboo Grille and there are two drinking establishments, known as Bangli and the Red Parrot Pool. Medium pets up to 25 lbs are allowed to enjoy this incredible hotel with their owners for a US$75 non-refundable fee.
6 Wyndham Orlando Resort
The Wyndham Resort Orlando offers family-friendly services and amenities including a complimentary shuttle to and from Universal Studios and Sea World theme parks. The hotel offers complimentary airport and theme park shuttles to most major attractions. There is a jogging path on property, three swimming pools, and a state of the art fitness center. The Wyndham aims to provide every guest with a stress-free stay by offering amenities such as same-day dry cleaning, valet laundry, and computer rentals. The Wyndham Resort understands that your furry friends are a part of the family, and strives to be as pet friendly as possible, so that you never have to leave them behind.
5 Vista Cay Resort Orlando
With its high quality rental accommodations, resort style leisure amenities, and superb location, the Vista Cay Resort is the first choice for many of Orlando's repeat visitors. This exciting resort is situated just off International Drive on Universal Boulevard in the heart of the Orlando tourist area with the Orlando Convention Center within easy walking distance. A stunningly attractive Tuscan-themed gated community, it is set in over 1,500 landscaped tropical acres adjacent to beautiful Lake Cay, near enough to the action and yet far enough away to offer peace, quiet and a more refined and relaxed stay for visitors to Orlando. Pets are welcome at the Vista Cay Resort, with no additional fees.
4 Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando
Universal's Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is located in the Universal Orlando neighborhood, close to all the major Universal attractions. In addition to 5 restaurants, Universal's Loews Portofino Bay Hotel offers a snack bar/deli and a coffee shop/cafe. 2 bars/lounges, a poolside bar, and a bar/lounge are open for drinks. Recreational amenities include 3 outdoor swimming pools, children's pool, health club, spa tub, sauna, and a fitness facility. The property's full-service health spa has body treatments, massage rooms, facials, and beauty services. Complimentary wireless Internet access is available in public areas, and all rooms include separate sitting areas. Pet fee: US$ 25 per stay.
3 Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando
Universal's Hard Rock Hotel is located close to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Wet N' Wild. A four star facility, the hotel has a variety of options for the discerning guest, and offers free theme park shuttle services. The Hard Rock Hotel complex has multiple dining and lounge options, including a poolside bar. After a long day at the parks, the Hard Rock's recreational amenities can be just the thing to relax. The hotel offers an outdoor pool, a children's pool, a health club, and full service spa. Complimentary wireless Internet access is available in public areas. Guests with pets are welcome, fees are US$ 25 per stay.
2 Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando
The Royal Pacific Resort Universal is in close proximity to some of the nation's most exciting attractions, including Universal Studios, the Magic Kingdom, Epcot Center, Animal Kingdom, Sea World, and Silver Springs. Guests of the hotel will enjoy many amenities, including special benefits at Universal Studios, such as priority seating at restaurants and the ability to bypass long lines. The hotel also features an outdoor swimming pool, a poolside bar and grill, a restaurant, a children's club, and a weekly luau. A very pet friendly hotel, the Royal Pacific charges a simple fee of US$ 25 per stay for guests with furry family members.
1 Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress goes above and beyond when it comes to pets. With a lovely modern decor and extremely comfortable rooms, the Hyatt Place Hotel Orlando is sure to please any owner, and your four legged friend will enjoy specially designed pet beds and treats upon arrival. Take advantage of the endless selection of on-site activities including 45 holes of Jack Nicklaus Signature Design golf, a tennis and racquet club, a 21 acre lake with water sports, a 1/2 acre lagoon swimming pool with waterfalls and waterslides, and a children's programs with babysitting services. Guests intending to bring pets should contact the hotel at least 2 days in advance to make arrangements.
About Sarah Sekula
When Sarah's not zigzagging around the planet — swimming with sea lions in the Galapagos Islands, scaling glaciers in Iceland or roaming through remote jungles in India — she's writing about her adventures, the environment, fitness, health/wellness, extraordinary people and social injustice issues.
Sarah's written for USA Today, ISLANDS, Sherman's Travel, Caribbean Travel & Life, Cayman Airways Skies, American Eagle Latitudes, Orlando Sentinel, abcnews.com, Where Orlando, Where First Coast, nileguide.com, tripatlas.com, Upscale and Wild Blue Yonder.
She's also an editor and photographer, and has a strong background in public relations. She has a real knack for rounding up facts, making deadlines, project-juggling, storytelling, and wiggling her ears (which she claims hasn't come in handy yet).
Read more about Sarah Sekula here.
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Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando
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Thanksgiving Practice Round: 30 Inspiring Side Dishes That Go Next Level
Brussels sprouts, root veg, wild rice with a twist
Nov 24, 2014 1:00 pm
Spicy Sourdough Stuffing Recipe
Tip: pickle your mirepoix, make tangier stuffing
Nov 19, 2014 4:00 pm
Brussels Sprouts With Kumquats And Smoked Salt Recipe
Easy bacon-flecked sprouts with a sweet, tart glaze
Nov 10, 2014 1:00 pm
Loaded Sweet Potato Tots Recipe
Crunchy tots, starring olives, almonds and chorizo
Nov 3, 2014 4:00 pm
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Spice up everyone's favorite summer side dish
Aug 5, 2014 11:00 am
Meatless Monday: Wild Rice Pancakes Recipe
Savory whole-grain pancakes make a great side
Jul 28, 2014 12:00 pm
Grilled Potato Salad With Feta And Dill Recipe
Tangy lemon-spiked potato salad hot off the grill
Jul 16, 2014 2:00 pm
Smoked Eggplant Fingerling Potato Salad Recipe
Pimp out your potato salad with baba ghanoush
Jul 10, 2014 12:00 pm
You've heard the term. But really, you can do it.
Vietnamese noodle soup, it's what's for breakfast
A serious sign of spring. Yes, it's spring.
The Food Scientist answers vexing food questions
Learn the different kinds of smoked salmon
A tailoring theme, a lively bar scene and more
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Spicy, tangy, Italian-style ribs in red sauce


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Star Tracks
After false reports of a split, the Newlyweds step out together. Plus: Katie Holmes and more
Credit: Kevin Parry/WireImage
Updated: Friday May 27, 2005 | 06:00 AM EDT
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Commute From Earth To Space Station Just Got Shorter
Originally published on Fri March 29, 2013 2:09 pm
Three astronauts have arrived at the International Space Station after being the first to try out a new "express" route that slashes their launch-to-docking commute from two days to just six hours.
The crew of the Soyuz capsule, Russians Pavel Vinogradov and Alexander Misurkin and American Chris Cassidy, docked with the ISS late Thursday after blasting off from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. En route to the station, they made "only four orbits instead of the usual two-day launch-to-docking mission profile for a Russian spacecraft," NASA says.
Although the expedited trip has been successful twice before with unmanned cargo-carrying Soyuz capsules known as Progress, the mission that docked Thursday is the first manned crew to accomplish the feat. The BBC says the speedy launch-to-docking was accomplished by "using intricate ballistics maneuvers [that] succeeded in cutting out around 30 orbits and 45 hours from the flight time to the ISS."
According to Space.com, the procedure for the shorter flight is basically a compressed version of the longer one.
Not only does this save time for the crew, stuffed as they are in the cramped Soyuz, but since the Russian capsule can fly autonomously in orbit for only about four days, the shorter commute also means more fuel, oxygen and other supplies can be conserved for a possible emergency.


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|Magic 99 Seeking 1 Player 1 year ago in Virginia
|by Tim Tipton
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Online Golf Tee Times with Last Minute Tee Time Deals & Discounts
Cool Running is the complete online resource for runners.
Find your favorite campground from the best campgrounds listing!


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2 years, 10 months ago
I just found this site this week, and i cant get enought!!
I was just wondering if some of you would recommend books that you think everyone should read. Thanks!!!
May 4, 2012 at 12:35 pm
R.V. Star (@rickvonstar) 2 years, 10 months ago ago
read steppenwolf by hermann hesse, read anything by alan watts
Flynnstone (@flynnstone) 2 years, 10 months ago ago
Welcome Cess! I'd recommend the four agreements by don miguel ruiz
Subwoofer Stevens (@jakehay) 2 years, 2 months ago ago
Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hanh.
It's Buddhist practice but it doesn't need to be if you don't want it to be. Opens your world to a whole lot more potential through learning how to control your thought processes and emotional stability.
Edit: Just realised this thread is old like yo' mamma. Anyone else who ventures here should still check out this book :)
Reply to this topic
Obviously, you're not a golfer (@donjaime23) 2 years, 2 months ago ago
@cessalie, "The Best American Nonrequired Reading" series


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A very scenic and historic Lake community just outside of Dallas Texas has a new opening for a MedPed to join expanding MedPed practice. Top Pay and Potential and Partnership is offered.
Immediate need for Florida licensed PA. Over $85.00 per hour!
We are a unique Emergency Department that hires for the "heart" in individuals. We pride ourselves on our relationships with patients and families and it shows.
Independent physician group looking for an OB Hospitalist/Laborist to join our excellent team of providers!
Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush is widely recognized as the regional leader in comprehensive orthopaedic services.
Excellent opportunity for a Donor Coordinator!
Emergency Medicine Opportunit at Kaiser Permanente Vallejo and Vacaville
Emergency Medicine Opportunity at Kaiser Permanente Sacramento and Roseville
Emergency Medicine Physician Opportunity at Kaiser South Sacramento
RN in Supportive Housing
You'll appreciate the beautiful landscape and sense of community that makes the Oregon Coast and the mid-Willamette Valley a relocation destination. Add competitive wages, excellent benefits, opportunities for continuing education....and more!
Program Coordinator needed for MOMS program
Seeking Medical Nurse Case Manager to conduct medical and disability case management for Albertsons' Safeway stores
Outstanding Opportunity to join our Multi-Specialty Medical Foundation, an establish group of 50+ providers.
Hospital-employed Position North of Oklahoma City; Medical Directorship Included
Hospital-employed Position in a Charming Community North of Oklahoma City
Hospital-employed Position North of Oklahoma City
Join an Established Orthopedic Group in a Great Community North of Oklahoma City
Join a Well-Established Group in a Vibrant Community Close to Atlanta and the Carolina Coast
Employment or Private Practice in a Vibrant Southern Community Close to Atlanta and the Carolina Coast
Hospital-employed position in the Reno Area


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Our special coverage of the closest race for years
Explore the personal stories of Syrian refugees in Lebanon
10 Jun 2013 18:19 GMT | US & Canada, United Kingdom, United States
Dan Hind is the author of two books, The Threat to Reason and The Return of the Public. His e-book, Maximum Republic will be published later this month.
Media systems are the creatures of state power, whether they are formally private, like Google and the US broadcast networks, or formally public like the BBC in Britain.
A few days ago, the Guardian published details of the US National Security Administration's PRISM programme. We now know that the NSA is able to access personal data stored by Microsoft, Yahoo, Google, Facebook, Paltalk, YouTube, Skype, AOL and Apple. Though these companies have done their best to downplay the significance of the story, the revelations should force us to think much more carefully about the political economy of the information economy - the role of states and private companies in creating each country's shared agenda.
There is nothing new about states seeking to coordinate communication systems to further their interests. Although the director of the American Civil Liberties Union's Center for Democracy described PRISM as "unprecedented militarisation of domestic communications infrastructure", PRISM is entirely consistent with longstanding security doctrine in the US.
For instance, National Security Decision Directive Number 97 issued in 1983 states that: "The nation's domestic and international telecommunications resources, including commercial, private and government-owned services and facilities, are essential elements in support of US national security policy and strategy". Through NSDD 97, President Reagan directed, among other things, "that the nation's telecommunications capabilities be developed or improved, and implementing procedures established, to provide for… support for the vital functions of worldwide intelligence collection and diplomacy". TV and radio were part of how the US got what it wanted from the rest of the world.
Every country's communications infrastructure is essential to the functioning of its state, and always has been. But PRISM is nevertheless highly significant. It shows us that the new digital technologies are not weakening states relative to global corporations. These companies might play all kinds of tricks to minimise their tax obligations. But when the NSA comes calling, they do what they are told. And the "big data" companies' business models provide intelligence operations with far more detailed information about home and foreign populations than ever before. Companies such as Facebook and Google create "free" services that then cause us to invade our own privacy. The NSA then hoovers up the results. You have to admire the elegance.
A 'mighty Wurlitzer'
During the Cold War, the CIA and others paid close attention to both the print and broadcast media. The general field of knowledge was subject to all manner of manipulation. The spies recruited editors and publishers, subsidised translations and fact-finding trips, and built networks of influence in academia as well as journalism. They were able to arrange publicity and support for ideas and trends that they favoured, long before the phrase information dominance had been coined. According to Watergate journalist Carl Bernstein, the deputy director of the CIA in the 1950s and early 1960s, Frank Wisner, used to boast that he had created a "mighty Wurlitzer", an instrument for reproducing propaganda themes across the world media.
To an extent we only dimly appreciate, post-war culture, from CBS nightly news to abstract expressionism, was the creation of a handful of poets and novelists manqué in the heart of the US secret state. The Cold War itself, seen in a certain light, looks like a kind of paranoid art, a brightly coloured and fast-moving thriller, under cover of which the state could conduct its real business. Similarly, the "War on Terror" takes on the outlines of a sequel - an uninspired return to a successful formula by the same production company, another milestone on the road to constitutional breakdown - The Die Harder Is Cast.
And as the computer replaces the television as the device on which most people turn to for information, the links between the state and the "big data" companies become more numerous and obvious. While the NSA wants the personal information harvested by Google and others, there is more to the state than the NSA and there is more to "worldwide intelligence collection and diplomacy" than data mining.
The current director of Google Ideas, and co-author with Eric Schmidt of The New Digital Age, Jared Cohen, is a former member of the state department's policy planning staff. Meanwhile, Rob Painter, the "Senior Federal Manager" at Google was previously the director of technology assessment at In-Q-Tel. In-Q-Tel was created by the CIA and describes itself as a company that "identifies, adapts, and delivers innovative technology solutions to support the Central Intelligence Agency and the broader US intelligence community". There is little doubt that the technology companies will operate within parameters set by "US national security policy and strategy", as their predecessors in broadcast did.
And this brings us to the heart of the matter. During the controversy over the Leveson Inquiry in the UK, many American journalists were shocked that people in Britain were willing to countenance state regulation of the press. After all, the first amendment of the US constitution forbids Congress from passing laws "abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press". But debates about the media should take into account the relevant facts. PRISM reminds us that all functional states ensure that information systems serve their interests. Journalism, in the US as in Britain, is embedded in a telecommunications infrastructure over which the state maintains paramount control, in the name of national security.
No choice but cooperation
The digital age is only beginning and, as the science fiction writer Frank Herbert once observed, "a beginning is a very delicate time". At the moment, the Obama administration is trying to make the digital media landscape safe for state power and its deep commitments. It is doing this through ever-closer coordination with the digital companies and through a campaign of intimidation against potential whistleblowers and troublesome reporters. It is surely obvious that Bradley Manning and Wikileaks are being targeted to discourage others.
In this moment of transition from broadcast to digital, the blunt instrument of vindictive prosecution has its place, along with technical wizardry and the state-of-the-art in soothing public relations. Google and the other technology companies want to assure us that they don't operate as instruments of state policy. But they do, just as the broadcast networks do. They really have no choice but to cooperate, and to deny that they cooperate.
During the Cold War, the state used its control over the media to manipulate the general field of knowledge in all kinds of more or less deniable ways. The spectre of terrorism is being used to reconstruct this unaccountable power in the new landscape of network communications. And this is about much more than privacy and surveillance. PRISM and similar programmes seek to shape the information technologies on which we will increasingly rely. The aim, as ever, is to set the limits of debate: establish who is moderate, who is extreme. We can expect strenuous efforts to frame the recent revelations in ways that conceal or misrepresent as much as possible about the relationship between states and their media.
We don't have to play along. Media systems are the creatures of state power, whether they are formally private, such as Google and the US broadcast networks, or formally public like the BBC in Britain. They may be trustworthy in many respects, but they are also "essential elements" in support of national security policy and strategy. Given that this is so, we can discuss the media much more sensibly.
If the state supports and coordinates national systems of knowledge, then we can change the terms on which this support and coordination takes place. Washington currently spends a fortune in secret in order to reproduce a media system that consistently fails to connect with reality. This is money that would be better spent in daylight, by a citizenry wishing to inform itself. Washington has provided us with our governing narratives since 1945, through the Cold War, to the brief interval of The End of History, and now the ragged and sprawling "War on Terror" (aka Dangerous Times).
A media system over which we exercise substantial oversight and control would allow us to tell our own story, and to escape from the delirium that injustice needs if it is to survive.
You can call it media reform if you like, or democratisation of the state. One thing is for sure - you can't have one without the other.
Dan Hind is an editor for openDemocracy and the Tax Justice Network. His books include The Return of the Public and Maximum Republic.
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