Tag: Feedly

LiquidPiston’s ‘Inside-Out’ Rotary X-Engine Wins Army Research Contract

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Connecticut-based company LiquidPiston is developing a portable generator for the US Army that uses its X-Engine, a fresh and extremely powerful take on the rotary engine that’ll deliver as much power as the Army’s current-gen-set at one-fifth the size. New Atlas reports: We’ve written a few times before about the fascinating LiquidPiston rotary engine. It’s not a Wankel — indeed, it’s closer to an inside-out Wankel — and with only two moving parts, it’s able to deliver extraordinary power density at up to 1.5 horsepower per pound (0.45 kg). According to co-founder and CEO Alec Schkolnik, the X Engine design combines the high compression ratio and direct injection of a diesel engine with the constant volume combustion process of an Otto cycle engine and the over-expansion abilities of an Atkinson cycle engine, while solving the lubrication and sealing issues of the Wankel rotary engine and delivering huge power and efficiency. Check out the design being used in a go-kart and an unmanned aircraft in the video below.
LiquidPiston demonstrated the technology for the US Army by building a Compact Artillery Power System (CAPS) generator unit designed to power the digital fire control system on an M777 Howitzer artillery piece. It replaced a generator that needed a truck to move it around with something 20 percent the size: a 41-lb (18.6-kg), 1.5-cubic foot (28.3-L) box about the size of a gaming PC that can easily be carried by two men. Smartly designed to work in conjunction with a battery in a hybrid system, the 2-kW CAPS generator impressed the Army enough that LiquidPiston has been awarded a Small Business Innovation Research contract to develop it further as a 2-5 kW Small Tactical Generator for a range of military use cases, running on diesel with compression ignition.

Read more of this story at Slashdot.

geeky

via Slashdot https://slashdot.org/

December 17, 2020 at 02:08AM

Fast Excel Package for Laravel

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use Rap2hpoutre\FastExcel\FastExcel;
use App\User;

// Export a User model
$users = User::all();
(new FastExcel($users))->export('file.xlsx');

// Export a collection Collection
$list = collect([
    [ 'id' => 1, 'name' => 'Jane' ],
    [ 'id' => 2, 'name' => 'John' ],
]);

(new FastExcel($list))->export('file.xlsx');

return (new FastExcel(User::all()))->download('file.xlsx');

$sheets = new SheetCollection([
    User::all(),
    Project::all()
]);
(new FastExcel($sheets))->export('file.xlsx');

programming

via Laravel News https://ift.tt/14pzU0d

December 17, 2020 at 09:22AM

The USPTO Patent Litigation Dataset: Open Source, Extensive Docket and Patent Number Data

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Guest Post by Prof. Ted Sichelman, University of San Diego School of Law

Many online services provide district court patent litigation dockets, documents, and associated patent numbers. However, none of these services offer comprehensive, hand-coded patent numbers and case types, plus full dockets and key documents (complaints, summary judgments, verdicts), downloadable in bulk at no charge and with no license restrictions.

After more than three years of extensive automated and manual review of patent dockets, the USPTO’s Office of the Chief Economist —in conjunction with researchers from the University of San Diego’s Center for IP Law & Markets (myself) and Northwestern Law School (David L. Schwartz)—have completed that very goal, expanding upon the patent litigation dataset the USPTO had released in 2015.

Currently, the dataset (available here) includes:

• Dockets: The complete docket for every lawsuit filed in district courts tagged as a patent action in PACER (and many other patent cases tagged under non-patent PACER codes) from the first patent case logged in PACER through the end of 2016 (over 80,000 case dockets).
• Attorneys & Parties: Full lists of parties by type (e.g., plaintiff, defendant, intervener, etc.) and their attorneys, with full contact information for the attorneys gathered from public records.
• Patent Numbers: Comprehensive, hand-coded patent numbers by a team over 30 law students from all electronically available complaints in PACER in cases filed from 2003 through the end of 2016.
  • Based on testing against several of the leading commercial services, plus publicly available data from the Stanford NPE Litigation Database, the dataset’s patent number information is substantially more complete and accurate than any of these services (which often use automated methods for determining patents-in-suit).
• Case Types: Every case in PACER filed from 2003 through the end of 2016 is identified with one of 15 fine-grained case types, including patent infringement (non-declaratory judgement [DJ]), DJ on non-infringement and invalidity, DJ on non-infringement only, DJ on invalidity only, false marking, inventorship, malpractice, regulatory challenge, and others.

In the next few months, the USPTO will make available:

• Documents: Initial complaints, summary judgment orders, and verdicts (bench and jury) that are electronically available for all patent cases in PACER filed from 2003 through the end of 2016.

The data is downloadable only in bulk and is not searchable at the USPTO website. However, it is relatively straightforward to download and search the patent number, case type, and attorney data, in Microsoft Excel or other database and statistical packages.

Importantly, there are no licensing restrictions whatsoever on the use of the data, and the research team and USPTO expect that commercial and non-commercial services will add the information to their search interfaces in the coming year. Additionally, the research team is hoping to update all of the data for patent cases filed through the end of 2020 sometime next year. Further down the road, we hope to code cases for outcomes and add appeals by supplementing Jason Rantanen’s comprehensive Compendium of Federal Circuit Decisions with full dockets and key documents.

In examining litigation trends, many researchers across the academic, public, and private sectors have used proprietary datasets, which generally could not be disclosed to other researchers for study replication and testing. Hopefully, academics and others will now use the USPTO’s fully open dataset for studies on the U.S. patent litigation system to allow for meaningful review of empirical studies.

Documentation on the database is available here and at the USPTO webpage. Anyone interested in using the data is also welcome to contact me (tsichelman@sandiego.edu) with technical and other questions.

legal_stuff

via Patent Law Blog (Patently-O) https://patentlyo.com

December 16, 2020 at 11:41AM

Watch Kayleigh McEnany go full William Wallace on the mainstream media over their insane liberal bias. With receipts.

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Ladies and gents, there is only one emoji appropriate for the video you are about to watch, and it is 😤😤😤😤😤😤

fun

via Not the Bee https://notthebee.com

December 15, 2020 at 08:37PM

Laravel Simple Filemanager v1.0.2 released!

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programming

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December 15, 2020 at 08:48PM

HeatWave for MySQL – Technical Deep Dive

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In the previous blog we provided insights on how the MySQL database has been enhanced to integrate with a native high performance analytics engine – HeatWave: https://blogs.oracle.com/mysql/breakthrough-enhancements-in-mysql-database-service-with-analytics-engine

HeatWave is a new, massively parallel in-memory query engine developed by Oracle Labs designed for accelerating analytic workloads. HeatWave provides 100x-1000x acceleration over MySQL and MySQL compatible databases like Aurora. 

There are four key architecture choices which provide compelling performance with HeatWave:

1. An in-memory hybrid columnar format which is conducive to vector processing.
2. A massively parallel architecture which is enabled by a massively partitioned architecture.
3. State of the art algorithms for distributed analytic algorithms.
4. The engine is optimized for Oracle Cloud Infrastructure.

Architecture Overview of HeatWave

HeatWave uses a columnar in-memory representation that facilitates vectorized processing leading to very good query performance (Figure 1). The data is encoded and compressed prior to being loaded in memory. This compressed and optimized in memory representation is used for both numeric and string data. This results in significant reduced memory footprint which translates to reduced cost for customer. The data organization in memory and query processing is structured such that it is amenable to vector and SIMD processing which leads to reduced interpretation overhead for queries and improves query performance.

Figure 1. Vectorized in-memory columnar representation for analytic processing 

One of the key design points of HeatWave is to massively partition data across a cluster of analytics nodes, which can be operated upon in parallel in each node (Figure 2). The partitioning is done at near memory bandwidth and the size of the partitions is optimizes for the underlying cache. This enables high cache hits for analytic operations and provides good inter-node scalability. Each analytics node within a cluster and each core within a node can process partitioned data in parallel, including parallel scans, joins, group-by, aggregation and top-k processing. 

Figure 2. Massively parallel architecture

Data partitioning in the memory of HeatWave can be driven by a workload based mechanism which minimizes data movement across cores or nodes which improves scalability. Partitioning by workload dependent column reduces data movement for queries with join (or group-by) predicates since it provides co-location of data across tables in the join condition. 

HeatWave has implemented state of art algorithms for distributed analytic processing (Figure 3). Joins within a partition are processed fast by using vectorized build and probe join kernels. Network communication between analytics nodes is optimized by using asynchronous batch I/Os.

Figure 3. Distributed analytic algorithms optimized for OCI 

Furthermore, HeatWave has an intelligent scheduler which efficiently overlaps computation tasks with network communication tasks such that while the data is being transferred between nodes, each node is busy doing some computation (Figure 4). This helps achieve good scalability across a large number of servers.

Figure 4. Intelligent scheduler to overlap compute time with network communication

HeatWave uses AMD based VM shapes in OCI which provide the best price per GB of DRAM. Various aspects of query processing have been optimized for Oracle Cloud Infrastructure. For example, the granularity of partitioning has been optimized for the cache size of the underlying compute shape, algorithms are NUMA aware, and the query cost model factors in the network bandwidth available in OCI.

Machine Learning Based Automation

HeatWave leverages auto machine learning (AutoML) capabilities developed in Oracle Labs to automate various aspects of the service. This automation is helpful both for users of the service and engineers managing the service. Since this automation is based on machine learning, the system can intelligently predict and act upon various scenarios. 

Auto Provisioning provides a recommendation on how many nodes are required to run a workload. When the service is started, database tables on which analytics queries are run need to be loaded to memory of HeatWave. The size of the HeatWave cluster needed depends on tables and columns required to load data, and the compression achieved in memory for this data. Figure 5 compares the traditional (i.e., manual) approach to estimating the cluster size with Auto Provisioning. In traditional provisioning, the user needs to guess a cluster size. Underestimation results in data load or query execution failure due to space limitations. Overestimation results in additional costs for unneeded resources. As a result, users iterate until they determine the right cluster size and this size estimate becomes inaccurate when tables are updated. 

The right side of figure 5 shows how we solve this problem with Auto Provisioning, which is a ML-based cluster size estimation advisor. By leveraging well trained and accurate ML models, the user consults the Auto Provisioning model to obtain the right cluster size for their dataset. As a result, users do not need to guess the cluster size. Later, if the customer data grows or additional tables are added, the users can again take advantage of Auto Provisioning advisor.

Figure 5 – Comparison of a traditional Provisioning Flow vs Auto Provisioning

The techniques mentioned in this blog help HeatWave achieve good performance both on a single node as well as scale very well across a large number of nodes. Additionally, since HeatWave is optimized for the underlying OCI platform, it is very cost effective. In the next blog we will share performance

technology

via Planet MySQL https://ift.tt/2iO8Ob8

December 15, 2020 at 08:50PM

Wonder Woman 84 Opening Scene

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Link

To stoke enthusiasm for WW84, Warner Bros. Pictures has released footage of the first three minutes of the movie. The scene features a young Diana as she reminisces about her childhood and training on Themyscira, but doesn’t give up much else. DC’s latest premieres in theaters and on HBO Max on 12.25.2020.

fun

via The Awesomer https://theawesomer.com

December 15, 2020 at 05:00PM

Smith & Wesson Introduces New M&P15 Pistol in .223/5.56!

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I have to admit I am a big admirer of Smith & Wesson and especially so with how they treat their customer and deliver a quality, American made product. That all being said I am glad to inform you of the newest introduction in their M&P15 line of firearms. The Smith & Wesson M&P15 Pistol! At the moment it seems like this one is solely .223/5.56. Let’s jump right into the specs!

In a world full of AR15 based pistols it is pleasant to see Smith & Wesson set themselves apart with a number of unique features all bundled up in one package. Some features to note would be the introduction of not only a flat-faced trigger, but also the very interesting addition of their own pistol grip. A pistol grip that any Smith & Wesson fan will notice is the very same for their M&P 2.0 series of pistols! This works the exact same way in that you can change out different grip modules to fit the palm of your hand better. The specifications are as follows:

• CALIBER: 5.56mm NATO/223 REM
• ACTION: Gas Operated Semi Auto
• CAPACITY: 30+1 Rounds
• BARREL LENGTH: 7.5˝ (19.05 cm)
• RIFLING: 1:7˝ Twist
• FRONT SIGHT: N/A
• REAR SIGHT: N/A
• WIDTH: 2.0˝ (5.08 cm)

• OVERALL HEIGHT: 7.0˝ (17.78 cm)
• OVERALL LENGTH: 23.5˝- 26˝ (59.69 – 66.04 cm)
• ARM BRACE: SB Tactical SBA3 Adjustable
• WEIGHT: 5.5 lbs. (2494.76 g) w/No Mag
• BARREL MATERIAL: 4140 Steel
• BARREL FINISH: Armornite® Finish – Interior & Exterior
• RECEIVER MATERIAL: 7075 Aluminum
• RECEIVER FINISH: Matte Black

Some more notable features would be a one-point QD sling swivel attachment point in the arm brace, a Hodge® rail free float handguard with M-LOK® slots, forged upper and lower receiver, integral trigger guard, a chrome firing pin, and a threaded barrel with a blast diverter. Aside from that chunk of characteristics we also are presented with Armornite® finish which Smith & Wesson explains below:

“Armornite® finish is a hardened nitride finish that provides enhanced corrosion resistance, greatly improved wear resistance, decreased surface roughness, reduced light reflection and increased surface lubricity. Armornite is used on many S&W® and M&P® products imparting a high level of protection internally and externally where applied.”

The new Smith & Wesson M&P15 Pistol has an MSRP of $896. As far as AR15 style pistols I do not think that is a bad price point at all, especially coming from a company that has a reputable lifetime warranty and great customer service. I think this new pistol has a good home with Smith & Wesson‘s M&P15 style firearms!

So there you have it! Smith & Wesson Introduces their first Pistol offering in the M&P15 lineup and with both callbacks to their other handguns as well as their AR15’s. I personally have gotten the chance to handle plenty of AR pistols, but this one with that M&P M2.0 grip should be a different feel altogether! I am excited to see what comes of Smith & Wesson’s new pistol, but what do you think? Would you be up for picking up the newest S&W AR15? As always, let us know all of your thoughts in the Comments below! We always appreciate your feedback.

The post Smith & Wesson Introduces New M&P15 Pistol in .223/5.56! appeared first on AllOutdoor.com.

guns

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December 15, 2020 at 10:28AM

Real Python: Python Turtle for Beginners

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In this step-by-step course, you’ll learn the basics of Python programming with the help of a simple and interactive Python library called turtle. If you’re a beginner to Python, then this course will definitely help you on your journey as you take your first steps into the world of programming. The Python turtle library comes with a similar interactive feature that gives new programmers a taste of what it’s like to work with Python.

In this course, you will:

• Understand what the Python turtle library is
• Learn how to set turtle up on your computer
• Program with the Python turtle library
• Grasp some important Python concepts and turtle commands
• Develop a short but entertaining game using what you’ve learned

[ Improve Your Python With 🐍 Python Tricks 💌 – Get a short & sweet Python Trick delivered to your inbox every couple of days. >> Click here to learn more and see examples ]

Python

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December 15, 2020 at 11:55AM

Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Pistol Makes Its Triumphant Return

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For AR pistol fans, Smith & Wesson just made an exciting announcement marking the return of the M&P15-22. Chambered in .22 LR, the M&P15-22 comes compact with a 25-round magazine, making it suitable for a wide range of purposes.

RELATED STORY

Smith & Wesson Releases Optics-Ready M&P9 M2.0 Compact OR

The Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Pistol Returns

With an 8-inch barrel, the M&P15-22 measures just 25.4 inches fully extended. In a home defense situation, the pistol remains extremely compact for working corners. Measuring just 22.8 inches with the SB Tactical SBA3 adjustable pistol arm brace collapsed, the M&P15-22 becomes highly portable as well. We could easily see this serving as a truck gun, trainer or fun plinker for a day on the range.

A polymer receiver helps keep weight down. The pistol weighs just 53.6 ounces overall. Meanwhile a carbon steel barrel with a 1:15-inch twist provides the heart of the platform. It also includes a functioning charging handle and shell deflector, welcome additions.

An M&P handguard features M-LOK slots for accessory attachment. A two-position safety, one-point QD sling swivel and threaded barrel with muzzle flash provide familiar AR-style components.

A typical blow back action completes a multi-purpose pistol that comes with no sights included. However, the platform includes a full-length Picatinny rail on top. Simply top it with your reflex or red dot of choice, and you’re off and running.

In an era where .223 ammo proves increasingly difficult to find, adding a .22 LR to the stable provides another option. The S&W M&P15-22 retails for $504 . For even more info, please visit smith-wesson.com.

Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Pistol Specs

• Caliber: .22 LR
• Action: Semi-Auto Blow Back
• Capacity: 25+1
• Barrel Length: 8 inches
• Rifling: 1:15-inch Twist
• Front Sight: N/A
• Rear Sight: N/A
• Width: 2 inches
• Overall Height: 7 inches
• Overall Length: 22.8 inches (collapsed), 25.4 inches (extended)
• Weight: 53.6 ounces
• Barrel Material: Carbon Steel
• Receiver Material: Polymer
• Receiver Finish: Black
• MSRP: $504

The post Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Pistol Makes Its Triumphant Return appeared first on Personal Defense World.

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December 15, 2020 at 12:01PM