The problem is that while well known now, there was no published prior art on this 'cat chasing laser exercise' technology back in 1993. Youtube didn't exist until 12 years after the patent was filed so there weren't widely published videos available. Actually, I think this may be a case where the patent system has succeeded. Someone may have seen the patent and learned the technology and then when the patent expired they used and spread the idea to the benefit of cats everywhere.
Seriously though, these types of patents are innocuous. There's no chance the patent holder is going to sue even if they find you using their "invention". The real problem is being able to hold a patent without any intention of producing something using it. Any patent the assignee is not using or in the process of putting to use should be invalidated by default.
This means that I can travel to the other universes, kill off the me from other ones and become stronger?
No, this means that the book the article refers to is no more science than the terrible Jet-Li movie you're alluding to. Now, that's not necessarily a bad thing. It just can't be called science. Instead, I think it would more qualify as the philosophical extension of a few scientific theories. As long as Greene doesn't misrepresent untestable muti-verse theories as hard science, then I'd say that this book would at least be an entertaining read. I'd rather people read thought provoking psuedo-science than the newest Harry Potter or vampire tripe. At least psuedo-science might inspire someone to investigate further and has a chance (albeit extremely small) to be useful if someone figures out a way to test it.
With the PS3's root key leaked, you shouldn't even need CFW to enable piracy.
Nope, you're right. Custom firmware is not needed to enable piracy. In fact, when the jailbreak dongle was originally released the very first application was a "Backup Manager" that allowed games to be copied to and played directly from the hard disk. Obviously, this could be used for copying games as easily as it could for legitimate backups. So, for anyone who just wanted access to a bunch of free PS3 games, the signing keys and CFW are essentially worthless. The only advantage it could have is that with CFW it may be possible (though, I think unlikely) to be able to keep PSN access while being able to play copied games.
The ability to install CFW and self sign executables will be great for those who are interested in homebrew development. The return of "Other OS" with full hardware access for all firmware and hardware versions seems likely as well.
So instead of teaching children (little girls and little boys) that sex is bad, dirty and they shouldn't do it (because the conflicting messages will exist and screw up their brains no matter how hard you try) teach them what and who it is for and what bad things can happen if they aren't careful. And most importantly, lead by example!!
My parents tried to lead by example once... I never ate at the dining room table again after that.
Sounds like a good idea to me. No people wandering mindlessly while talking on the phone, loitering in main walkways and holding up lines at the register.
T-Mobile is the only US carrier that has lower pricing for plans without a subsidized phone. I think there are more options in other parts of the world.
My suggestion would be to buy an unlocked phone. They are readily available Here and can be used on any compatible network. The only drawback is that there only seems to be one carrier (T-Mobile) offering reduced pricing on service for a non-subsidized phone.
I think the GP may have been using a little known literary device called hyperbole.
Besides, Linux is so pervasive now that many people who have never used a computer benefit from Linux indirectly. If they've ever hooked up to the electric grid, or used a phone, or bought anything that wasn't produced locally, they have likely used services that rely on Linux. I think it would be difficult at this point to avoid being "touched by Linux" in some way without being completely isolated from the global economy.
They didn't "invent" anything. They did do something new, and then they shared it like nice people. I just fail to see how putting together three existing technologies in what is a fairly logical configuration merits a patent.
I'm not so sure it's that simple. Nearly every mechanical device invented has just been a combination of simple machines in different configurations. I think the distinction between invention and merely an alternative application is whether the item being patented provides a new capability or one that is significantly improved.
Using this case as a hypothetical example. If there were already wireless routers running a proprietary OS and the OS was just replaced with another that provided similar functionality, that would not (in my opinion) be an invention. If instead, there was no such thing as a wireless router at the time and they used Linux, an antenna and some existing computer hardware to create one, that would be a novel and patentable invention.
I don't know all of the details of the state of the art at the time or what the patent actually claims, but from what I do know, I don't think this patent falls clearly into either category.
While it's true that Nokia isn't providing much support for the N900, it shouldn't require much "hacking" to get a working sync solution because it's already been done. The Maemo community has really impressed me with their ability to provide functionality well beyond what's available on a stock N900.
Responding to my own post to confirm that Netflix does plan on dropping support for the disk (on the PS3 at least, I didn't ask about other Blu-ray players).
I'd like to urge anyone else who is in the same situation to call Netflix and request that support be continued for streaming on older PS3 firmware versions. The more people that contact them about this issue, the more justification they will have to make the effort and come up with a solution.
Engadget is reporting [engadget.com] that the disks will stop working after 31 days
I hope that's not true and they'll allow the disks to be used indefinitely. I have a PS3 that's still on firmware 3.15 to keep Other OS and can't access PSN. Looks like a call to Netflix support is in order.
The OS vendors aren't the ones controlling the prices, the developers are.
Yep, and so far nearly all of the developers for Maemo haven't asked for a penny. There are a few games and things available through Nokia's Ovi store that are for profit, but Maemo has a thriving developer community at maemo.org that have provided just about every application that I could want for free.
Gas turbines are powerful for their weight, but not exactly economical in fuel use. The power-to-weight ratio makes them suitable for aircraft, but for cars they are just a thirsty show-off.
Actually, turbine engines can be more efficient than most internal combustion engines. If you compare their ideal cycles (Otto for IC and Brayton for gas turbine), it may appear that the IC engine is more efficient, but this breaks down quickly when you factor in that the gas turbine processes are closer to isentropic and have virtually no mechanical losses. And that is without using the exhaust to preheat the compressed gas before combustion.
The most important reason that almost all cars have used ICEs instead of turbines is that the efficiency is not as dependent on operating speed. This allows the use of a simple gearbox instead of needing a more expensive CVT or hybrid electric system to transmit power to the wheels. Well, that and cost.
How is that different than having one motor and computer-controlled multi-wheel drive and braking systems?
The difference is that it would be much easier to control in software and probably less prone to simultaneous mechanical failure of more than one drive wheel.
I understand that one is a general purpose computer while the other is a game console, so the intended usage is the difference.
To muddy the waters even further, the PS3 was originally advertised as being a general purpose computer as well a game console through the "Other OS" capability. Sony, with their decision to remove Other OS in a required software update, effectively made PS3 owners choose between their hardware being a general purpose computer or a game console. Assuming the firmware update EULA is upheld, I think Sony may have an argument that by updating to firmware 3.41 (necessary to use the current jailbreak exploit) the console owners would have to accept the removal of the device's ability to be a general purpose computer. Although, that could be complicated by a release of jailbreak code that works with firmware 3.15 (last one with Other OS) which is supposedly being worked on right now.
The original analogy implies that there is no consequence to the frog jumping out of the pot. You have to combine it with the metaphor "out of the frying pan and into the fire." (copyright lawsuits, DMCA) to make it more accurate.
You make a good point. The only reason I see to have a transparent plane is maintenance. Once the plane is on the ground and passengers disembark, turn the plane's skin transparent to check the wiring and other systems.
You have no use for a metal that doesn't corrode, is a good conductor and is easily formed or cast without the need for specialized skills or tools? I'd have a harder time thinking of something I couldn't use it for.
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The problem is that while well known now, there was no published prior art on this 'cat chasing laser exercise' technology back in 1993. Youtube didn't exist until 12 years after the patent was filed so there weren't widely published videos available. Actually, I think this may be a case where the patent system has succeeded. Someone may have seen the patent and learned the technology and then when the patent expired they used and spread the idea to the benefit of cats everywhere.
Seriously though, these types of patents are innocuous. There's no chance the patent holder is going to sue even if they find you using their "invention". The real problem is being able to hold a patent without any intention of producing something using it. Any patent the assignee is not using or in the process of putting to use should be invalidated by default.
This means that I can travel to the other universes, kill off the me from other ones and become stronger?
No, this means that the book the article refers to is no more science than the terrible Jet-Li movie you're alluding to. Now, that's not necessarily a bad thing. It just can't be called science. Instead, I think it would more qualify as the philosophical extension of a few scientific theories. As long as Greene doesn't misrepresent untestable muti-verse theories as hard science, then I'd say that this book would at least be an entertaining read. I'd rather people read thought provoking psuedo-science than the newest Harry Potter or vampire tripe. At least psuedo-science might inspire someone to investigate further and has a chance (albeit extremely small) to be useful if someone figures out a way to test it.
If something is not exactly voluntary and yet called voluntary, what is the real word for that?
I believe it's called extortion. At least when anyone besides the federal government does it.
I think griefing the deceased would be in terribly poor taste. Think about how it would affect the grieving process of their family members.
With the PS3's root key leaked, you shouldn't even need CFW to enable piracy.
Nope, you're right. Custom firmware is not needed to enable piracy. In fact, when the jailbreak dongle was originally released the very first application was a "Backup Manager" that allowed games to be copied to and played directly from the hard disk. Obviously, this could be used for copying games as easily as it could for legitimate backups. So, for anyone who just wanted access to a bunch of free PS3 games, the signing keys and CFW are essentially worthless. The only advantage it could have is that with CFW it may be possible (though, I think unlikely) to be able to keep PSN access while being able to play copied games.
The ability to install CFW and self sign executables will be great for those who are interested in homebrew development. The return of "Other OS" with full hardware access for all firmware and hardware versions seems likely as well.
So instead of teaching children (little girls and little boys) that sex is bad, dirty and they shouldn't do it (because the conflicting messages will exist and screw up their brains no matter how hard you try) teach them what and who it is for and what bad things can happen if they aren't careful. And most importantly, lead by example!!
My parents tried to lead by example once ... I never ate at the dining room table again after that.
Sounds like a good idea to me. No people wandering mindlessly while talking on the phone, loitering in main walkways and holding up lines at the register.
Does the Jailbreak even bring back the linux OtherOS option yet though?
Yes, it does. There are two ways so far.
AsbestOS - needs to store the data on a network drive (for now) but has full access to the hardware including the RSX GPU
Downgrade - If you have a PS3 that originally had Other OS, you can downgrade to version 3.15 which was the last to have the Other OS option.
Ha! You're wrong. The devil does have a trident. I have proof right here!
it should read "Artists Propose Lily Pad-Like Floating Cities"
The fractal growth concept is kind of cool though.
Replying to my own post, but I should clarify.
T-Mobile is the only US carrier that has lower pricing for plans without a subsidized phone. I think there are more options in other parts of the world.
My suggestion would be to buy an unlocked phone. They are readily available Here and can be used on any compatible network. The only drawback is that there only seems to be one carrier (T-Mobile) offering reduced pricing on service for a non-subsidized phone.
I think the GP may have been using a little known literary device called hyperbole.
Besides, Linux is so pervasive now that many people who have never used a computer benefit from Linux indirectly. If they've ever hooked up to the electric grid, or used a phone, or bought anything that wasn't produced locally, they have likely used services that rely on Linux. I think it would be difficult at this point to avoid being "touched by Linux" in some way without being completely isolated from the global economy.
Also, it's exaggerate.
They didn't "invent" anything. They did do something new, and then they shared it like nice people. I just fail to see how putting together three existing technologies in what is a fairly logical configuration merits a patent.
I'm not so sure it's that simple. Nearly every mechanical device invented has just been a combination of simple machines in different configurations. I think the distinction between invention and merely an alternative application is whether the item being patented provides a new capability or one that is significantly improved.
Using this case as a hypothetical example. If there were already wireless routers running a proprietary OS and the OS was just replaced with another that provided similar functionality, that would not (in my opinion) be an invention. If instead, there was no such thing as a wireless router at the time and they used Linux, an antenna and some existing computer hardware to create one, that would be a novel and patentable invention.
I don't know all of the details of the state of the art at the time or what the patent actually claims, but from what I do know, I don't think this patent falls clearly into either category.
While it's true that Nokia isn't providing much support for the N900, it shouldn't require much "hacking" to get a working sync solution because it's already been done. The Maemo community has really impressed me with their ability to provide functionality well beyond what's available on a stock N900.
Responding to my own post to confirm that Netflix does plan on dropping support for the disk (on the PS3 at least, I didn't ask about other Blu-ray players).
I'd like to urge anyone else who is in the same situation to call Netflix and request that support be continued for streaming on older PS3 firmware versions. The more people that contact them about this issue, the more justification they will have to make the effort and come up with a solution.
Engadget is reporting [engadget.com] that the disks will stop working after 31 days
I hope that's not true and they'll allow the disks to be used indefinitely. I have a PS3 that's still on firmware 3.15 to keep Other OS and can't access PSN. Looks like a call to Netflix support is in order.
Bacteria: Finally, a candidate who tells the truth, never flip-flops, and can really get stuff done!
Oh yeah? Tell that to the bacteria that just lies there on my flip-flops. The only thing it's been able to accomplish is giving me athlete's foot.
The OS vendors aren't the ones controlling the prices, the developers are.
Yep, and so far nearly all of the developers for Maemo haven't asked for a penny. There are a few games and things available through Nokia's Ovi store that are for profit, but Maemo has a thriving developer community at maemo.org that have provided just about every application that I could want for free.
Gas turbines are powerful for their weight, but not exactly economical in fuel use. The power-to-weight ratio makes them suitable for aircraft, but for cars they are just a thirsty show-off.
Actually, turbine engines can be more efficient than most internal combustion engines. If you compare their ideal cycles (Otto for IC and Brayton for gas turbine), it may appear that the IC engine is more efficient, but this breaks down quickly when you factor in that the gas turbine processes are closer to isentropic and have virtually no mechanical losses. And that is without using the exhaust to preheat the compressed gas before combustion.
The most important reason that almost all cars have used ICEs instead of turbines is that the efficiency is not as dependent on operating speed. This allows the use of a simple gearbox instead of needing a more expensive CVT or hybrid electric system to transmit power to the wheels. Well, that and cost.
How is that different than having one motor and computer-controlled multi-wheel drive and braking systems?
The difference is that it would be much easier to control in software and probably less prone to simultaneous mechanical failure of more than one drive wheel.
I understand that one is a general purpose computer while the other is a game console, so the intended usage is the difference.
To muddy the waters even further, the PS3 was originally advertised as being a general purpose computer as well a game console through the "Other OS" capability. Sony, with their decision to remove Other OS in a required software update, effectively made PS3 owners choose between their hardware being a general purpose computer or a game console. Assuming the firmware update EULA is upheld, I think Sony may have an argument that by updating to firmware 3.41 (necessary to use the current jailbreak exploit) the console owners would have to accept the removal of the device's ability to be a general purpose computer. Although, that could be complicated by a release of jailbreak code that works with firmware 3.15 (last one with Other OS) which is supposedly being worked on right now.
I don't envy the judge and jury in this case.
The original analogy implies that there is no consequence to the frog jumping out of the pot. You have to combine it with the metaphor "out of the frying pan and into the fire." (copyright lawsuits, DMCA) to make it more accurate.
You make a good point. The only reason I see to have a transparent plane is maintenance. Once the plane is on the ground and passengers disembark, turn the plane's skin transparent to check the wiring and other systems.
You have no use for a metal that doesn't corrode, is a good conductor and is easily formed or cast without the need for specialized skills or tools? I'd have a harder time thinking of something I couldn't use it for.