a2geeks Blog from December, 2009

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Andrew King posted on Dec 22, 2009
Xmas Tree Siphon

New and Improved Xmas Tree Siphon

I love having a tree in the house especially the way it smells but it's such a pain to try and keep it watered.

You've got to reach way under the tree to see if it needs water then try and re-fill it wwithout making a mess.

Last year I came up with a solution, a siphon bent from 6 mm stainless tube (the "Model A" siphon).

The straight end goes in the tree stand, the curved end goes in a tub of water.

The curve helps you start the siphon by attaching a piece of tubing to the curved end and squirting a mouthfull of water through the siphon. Disconnect the tubing before you run out of water.

Once the siphon is started the level in the tub will match the level in the stand. You can easily see the water level and add more as needed. 

The water tub needed to be close to the tree stand so you still needed to maneuver under the branches.

I thought about making a longer siphon but 6 mm stainless is still somewhat awkward.

This year I realized that I didn't need a lot of flow, just enough to keep up with the tree.

So I made the siphon up from two pieces of 3 mm stainless tube connected with flexible plastic tubing.

Now the water tub is back against the wall where I can easily refill it.

In the picture it's sitting on a paint can to match the height of the tree stand.

The water level in the tub will always match the water level in the tree stand so you want the top of the tub to be the same height as the top of the tree stand.

Keep the water level above the siphon inlet, if it gets below the inlet it will let air in and stop the siphon. 

Zaher Andraus posted on Dec 17, 2009
Software Engineering Positition in a Funded Ann Arbor-based Startup

Reveal Design Automation, Inc. is a funded Ann Arbor-based start-up that develops software CAD tools for semiconductor chip verification. We spun out of UofM this year and the months coming ahead are not any less exciting!

We have a number of internship (temporary full-time) positions that may develop into permanent positions in the short term. Software Engineering candidates who qualify will participate in a major commercial validation of a technology that was originally developed at the university. All tasks require C++ programming in Linux environment, so being proficient/experienced in both is key. Knowledge about the following fields is a plus: hardware design, hardware coding with Verilog/VHDL, hardware testing, formal verification, logic reasoning and constraints satisfaction.

The ideal candidate will have (at least) a Bachelor in Computer Science and Engineering, and 3+ years of experience in programming and/or industrial software engineering. He/she will have to be used to fast prototyping and code refactoring/maintenance in a dynamic environment, and interact effectively with the rest of the team.

Please send your resume to [email protected]

Dug Song posted on Dec 14, 2009
a2geeks weekly events update, week of 12-14-09

Monday:

  • Monthly a2div web development meetup, 7 PM at Workantile Exchange. http://a2div.com

Tuesday:

Wednesday:

Thursday:

Friday:

Labels: eventsupdate
Anna Hornyak posted on Dec 11, 2009
Adaptive Materials Inc. is hiring a Software Engineer

Adaptive Materials Inc. is an innovator in the development of portable power created from solid oxide fuel cell technology. Using readily-available fuels such as propane, we empower organizations and individuals with clean, compact, long-lasting power. Field tested by the military and available for emergency and leisure uses, AMI is creating a future where mobility is unlimited and power is available on demand.

We are looking for a Software Engineer to join our Product Development team as a key contributor in taking our proven technology to the commercial market.  This position will work within the Electronics and Controls Team.  The position will primarily be responsible for developing suitable software application used in portable electronic devices. 

We are seeking a smart, experienced engineer who specializes in user interfaces and database development to join our team.  The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of experience designing modular, object-oriented JavaScript UIs. This is an exceptional opportunity to work in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial, can-do environment.

Position Requirements and Functions

•       Design, develop, and populate a database for renewable energy applications.  Application will incorporate battery and alternative power (such as fuel cell, solar and wind).

•       Develop a renewable energy selection algorithm that incorporates power, remote sensing, climate control, and communication as critical performance factors.

•       Design and develop a PC and web based applications that interface with databases.

•       Develop Graphical User Interface (GUI) to provide practical, intuitive, and safe end user experience.

•       Work within existing hardware parameters to develop PC-based applications, build database applications, and develop prototypes quickly.

•       Implement data security encryption and peer to peer networking capability.

•       Build robust platforms, systems and networking infrastructure using distributed systems, OS/kernel, network system design, and storage systems.

•       UI development with AJAX and similar technologies, client application development for Windows/Mac (Chrome, Toolbar, etc.), embedded systems, and/or mobile apps.

•       Coordinate software development and implement functionality with deliverables from Adobe design software.

Required Skills, Knowledge, and Experience

•       BS, MS, or PhD in Computer Science or related technical discipline (or equivalent).

•       Ability to collaborate with designers, engineers, and manufacturing to deliver simple software solutions and excellent user experience

•       Strong analytical skills with proven track record of data driven decision making.

•       Experience in supporting projects from initial concept to successful completion, including budget, time, and quality. 

•       Strong understanding of, and practical experience with, Java web application development.

•       Extensive programming experience in C/C++ and/or Java (strong OO skills preferred).

•       Experience posting web application to a database and presenting data in a stored database.

•       Coding skills in Python or Javascript/AJAX, database design and SQL, and/or knowledge of embedded programming is a plus.

•       Embedded programming experience, including communication protocols (e.g. CAN and I2C) is a plus

•       SMBUS battery management knowledge a plus

Attributes

•       Excellent communication and presentation skills are a requirement.

•       Self-starter.

•       Ability to express ideas and listen effectively.  Able to communicate complex issues to audiences with a wide range of technical background – someone who is comfortable teaching and advising others.

•       Ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary development teams.

•       Ability to meet deadlines, manage independent work while coordinating with other engineers on project needs and progress.

Please apply online at http://www.adaptivematerials.com/careers/

Adaptive Materials, Inc. offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with the high level of responsibilities this position entails.  We offer an excellent benefits package and a great work environment.  Benefits include medical, dental and vision, and a 401k plan.  Other Work/Life balance benefits are available, such as flexible work schedules and an on-site fitness center.

AMI is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation or any other classification protected by federal, state or local law.

Augie Hill posted on Dec 09, 2009
Full-Time Java Developer Job Opening

Please apply online at http://www.umich.edu/~jobs/
Job posting ID: 36008

University of Michigan Department of Biological Chemistry is seeking a Java developer to work under general supervision. In addition, the selected candidate would be required to do the following: Modifies moderately complex applications programs from detailed specifications. Codes, tests, debugs, documents, and maintains those programs. Competent to work on most phases of applications programming activities, but requires instruction and guidance in phases.

Note: This position does not perform systems analysis functions. Employees in this classification typically analyze, compare and evaluate various courses of action and have the authority to make independent decisions on matters of significance, free from immediate direction, within the scope of their responsibilities. Primary activities and decision making authority are predominantly performed independently affecting business operations to a substantial degree. Employees are not involved in the operation, repair, or maintenance of computer hardware, networks, or equipment.

Job Requirements: 4-year degree required in the related field(information technology, computer science),2 year of experience at least in Java coding and programming. Familiarty with basic networking concepts. Linux/Unix experience and experience running or maintaining a server.
Experience working on or with open-source projects

Dug Song posted on Dec 07, 2009
a2geeks weekly events update, week of 12-07-09

The Michigan mobile phone ensemble Weds night promises to be interesting... http://www.ns.umich.edu/htdocs/releases/story.php?id=7435

Tuesday's GO Tech is fresh on the heels of the Detroit Maker Faire announcement: http://blog.makezine.com/archive/2009/12/maker_faire_detroit_2010.html

And don't miss CoffeeHouseCoders organizers Matt & Zach, back to speak at the b-school on Thursday!

Tuesday:

Wednesday:

Thursday:

Friday:

Labels: eventsupdate
Dug Song posted on Dec 03, 2009
Shadow Art Fair - Sat, Dec 5 at Corner Brewery in Ypsi

The Shadow Art Fair is a juried event that allows local artists to exhibit and sell their works within a comfortable, friendly, and supportive setting. This one-day, 12--hour event is held two times a year at The Corner Brewery in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Local music, featured brews, and other special activities add a distinct flavor and sense of community to this creative showcase.

Saturday, December 5, 2009 from noon — midnight, at the Corner Brewery in Ypsilanti, MI

Labels: art, shadowartfair, ypsi