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Whether you are a working mom, a full-time mom or someone in between, there is one thing common to it all - the involvement of a child. Now, as we all know, children are not exactly the most rational people on the planet. After a hard day at work, it is just not possible anymore to take a long shower because the little one is up to no good. If you are your child's primary caregiver, it is only natural to want to run away at times. Juggle both, and by the end of the day, you are a train wreck.
Believe this or not, a lot of chronic health issues that start out in late adulthood are linked to the constant stress we subject ourselves to. Being on edge every single moment is a recipe for future high blood pressure. So mommy, take a break and claim your sanity back. We tell you how.
1. Let It Go:
Now, this one is not just a throaty, catchy song from 'Frozen.' Make this mantra a part of you. When you're on the verge of screaming about rajma spilled on the floor, take a deep breath and tell yourself that you can clean it up later. When you're dead tired and just don't want to engage with the child, turn on the television for a while and keep them engaged while you have some tea in peace. Sure, these aren't the most pious tips on housekeeping and parenting, but we are all humans after all, right?
2. Lean In:
Sheryl Sandberg is an icon. She is not only a super successful employee but also a wonderful (now) single mother to her two beautiful children. According to her, we too can have the life of our dreams if only we say goodbye to our egos and ask for help. I once made a pilot pick up the pieces of my phone off the floor at an airport because I had an infant in my arms. Don't be apologetic about asking for help. Ask confidently and repay with a warm thank you and see if you can step in for people when you find the time. We are a society, and we simply cannot live as islands.
3. Pamper Yourself:
This sounds pretty straightforward, but I wonder how many of us follow this tip. Run to work, work hard all day, grab a random lunch, head home, kick shoes off and start making dinner. Or start each day with feeding and playing with the toddler, cooking, cleaning. Phew! Take time out for yourself, not necessarily at a spa.
4. Breathe:
Lastly, take a deep breath in and imagine that you're letting good air in. Breathe out and let the bad air out. Do this often- in a conflict, when the baby is being particularly horrible, when you're on the verge of breaking down. It really helps calm you down.
We hope you find some of these tips useful and start implementing them in your daily life. Also, don't forget to just go ahead and do something unreasonable sometimes. After all, the whole idea of relaxing and staying sane is for it to be spontaneous, right?


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The Oasis Sanctuary provides lifetime care for 700 plus parrots that are have lost their owners, been abused, and lost their homes because of this weakened economy. The staff at the Oasis Sanctuary work 365 days a year in the rain, heat, cold and elements. It's their passion and determination that has made them a bright spot in the world of avian rescue. They work around the nation to promote well being, education, and a soft place to land for parrots that have run out of options. If your a parrot, have run out of options, and are in need of compassion and understanding, the Oasis is the place to land, even if your wings no longer work.
There are very few places that rescue these beautiful and highly intelligent birds, providing lifetime care for not only their physical needs but also their emotional needs. Despite the many birds under their care, they know each by name and their personal preferences. When one eventually passes on they grieve not only for the bird but with the bird's mate and friends. (Yes, these intelligent creatures do grieve). I wish there could be more places as well run as the Oasis. They have always been quick to return calls and acknowledge even small contributions. MaryAnn S.
Do you love animals? Imagine that you are older or ill and that your companion animal will live another 20-50 years. What would you do? If no friends or family want to care for the pet, chances are he will end up euthanzied or neglected in a shelter or shuffled from home to home. Sadly, many parrot owners face this fate. That's why it is crucial that we have places like The Oasis. "Orphaned", abused, neglected and abandoned parrots have the chance to feel what it is like to strech their wings and fly, live in a flock, and eat a wide variety of exotic fruits. Elderly parrot owners can rest assured that they have a home for their beloved companion after they pass. This place is tight on funds, with alomst 1,000 exotic birds needing a constant supply of food, toys, and water. Factor in paying employees, fundraising, construction, water, electricity... no wonder they run on a shoestring! Please donate!
A wonderful organization. It is well run with taking care of abused and abandoned parrots as their main goal.one of the few sanctuaries for parrots in the nation.
When I became a parrot owner, I learned that many parrots outlive their owners or suffer neglect and begin mutilating themselves out of boredom and depression. The Oasis takes in these birds and gives them someplace to live out their days and heal in the presence of others of their species with the help of their human caretakers. By helping these intelligent birds, the Oasis Sanctuary does a great service that otherwise would not be done on such a scale.
A few years ago I found myself retired after working and devoting 28 years of my life to our local animal shelter. So many dogs and cats without homes . During those years I tried to save all I could and it included 2 parrots. After the first couple months I fell in love with my blue fronted amazon. I never knew how much love they can give back! When I learned parrots have the same unfortunate demise that dogs and cats have. Indiscriminate breeding, parrot mills, and uninformed ownership I knew these unwanted, over bred, and wild caught parrots need a "shelter" to go to. They needed a place where they would receive the love they so deserved. My Internet search brought me to the Oasis. I read everything I could about Sybil and the parrots. She had only 200 parrots back then. Although I have never been there nor have I met Sybil or any of her staff I feel at home. I would want all parrots to go to a place like my shelter was. Somewhere the parrots get the love and hang out with their own kind. And partner up for the many years they will live. I can't imagine anyone knowing how truly you love the animals you are saving unless you've worked at a shelter. The Oasis has grown in the years I have been donating. I wish I was fortunate enough to have lots of money to help them continue their growth but I am on disability and it limits me but every dollar does count! I will never know what it would be like to hang out with 600 parrots but I think about it with a smile on my face. Thank you Oasis for the love you give to the birds. They need a voice too!
I'm 70 years old, and I have 6 parrots, most for more than 20 years. Parrots, unlike dogs and cats, live as long as people. My African Greys and Amazon are sure to outlive me, barring accidents, even if I live into my nineties, like my mom. You can't exactly will your parrots to your younger relatives and best friends -- I am trying to imagine any of them opening a box with a parrot in it and instructions for care! So part of my estate planning is to arrange for the care of these fine, innocent companions. The Oasis Sanctuary cares for birds throughout their lives. Many of them do not come with funds sufficient to support them, but no bird is turned away. The selfless dedication of the staff keeps these birds happy and healthy. I support their efforts, and I hope many others will also. There are hundreds of dog and cat organizations out there, but Oasis Sanctuary is unique.
I have a friend who owns a very funny and clever African gray parrot. The friend is 65 (her husband is 75) and the parrot is about 15. Parrots can live to be between 40 and 70 years themselves . . . what will happen to him when his owners are both gone? This is why the Oasis Sanctuary is such a wonderful and amazing place. I began to donate several years ago but last year, on a trip to Arizona, I visited the Oasis and was even more impressed by what they have accomplished with very little money and the dedicated work of volunteers. I wrote to AIP (the American Institute of Philanthropy) and suggested they include the Oasis in their rating system, and they wrote me back that the outfit was too small to qualify! And that's when I realized that perhaps the money I send to big 'animal' charities such as WWF or the Humane Society might be better sent to small places like the Oasis, which has a great and immediate use for funds. And, no, they don't dun people three or four times a year, send unwanted address labels, or spend much money fund-raising. This is a bootstrap organization devoted to saving and caring for pet birds.
I had a double yellow head Amazon parrot for 35 years. When my Asthma got worse the Pulmonologist said I need to find a home for my parrot. I was heartbroken as I had this parrot for such a long time. I searched everywhere and found the OASIS SANCTUARY in Arizona.It's a wonderful place. The birds are well taken care of. They have large flight cages, some the size of my house. They group the species together. My parrot found a girlfriend and is leading a "birdy" life...Sigrit...
There is a huge population across the nation of birds that have been neglected and abandoned or were used as breeders and abandoned and in poor shape which no one would want as a pet. Many of these medium and larger birds have many decades left to live. Every town has some place for abandoned cats and dogs. There is almost nothing nationwide done for these birds. The Oasis Sanctuary does it in great fashion. Takes them in, commits to care for their decades to come. Provides huge, barn sized, mesh walled aviaries for them to fly in and socialize. Careful attention to any veterinary needs. Daily hand prepared food. For many of these birds it is like going from hell to heaven.

subset: commoncrawl


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"Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve. "
Purpose: To set a learning goal for school, friendships, sports and personal.
WALT: Set Smart Goals
S.M.A.R.T. means Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-sensitive.
Specific: Don't be vague. What exactly do you want?
Measurable: Quantify your goal. How will you know if you've achieved it or not?
Attainable: Be honest with yourself about what you can reasonably accomplish at this point in your life, taking into consideration your current responsibilities.
Realistic: It's got to be doable, real and practical.
Time: Associate a time frame with each goal. When should you complete the goal?
Criteria: I can write 4 learning goals that are
Self Assessment
Peer Comment
Overall, how well do you think your learning partner has done?
My writing goal to... Use juicy vocabulary and language features,such as adjectives and similes, to clearly convey experiences and ideas.
The reason I have decided to focus on this goal is because...it will make my writing more juicy and it will hook the reader in
I will accomplish my goal by...practise and stopping and thinking before I start writing
My reading goal is to...draw on my natural curiosity and imagination to consider alternatives across a range of genre.
The reason I have decided to focus on this goal is because...I need to understand the story's I read and If I achieve this goal it well help me understand the story better.
I will accomplish my goal by...practise and listening to other peoples ideas about the story and try and respond to them.
My maths goal is to...choose an appropriate stategy when solving a problem.
The reason I have decided to focus on this goal is beccause...it is achieveable and I will know it in life when I might need to do maths to help me work something out.
I will accomplish my goal by...practising and I will try to archeive this by the end if the term because I don't want to take to long when everyone else will know but i wouldn't have had enough practices that is also why practise is important.


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April 20, 2017: The Fayetteville-Manlius School District Board of Education will hold a special meeting beginning at 5 p.m. Monday, April 24, in the large conference room of the F-M District Office Building, 8199 E. Seneca Turnpike, Manlius.
Meeting Agenda
1. Opening Items
1.01 Call to Order
1.02 Pledge of Allegiance
1.03 Approval/Revision of Agenda
1.04 Resolution OCM BOCES Ballot for Election
1.05 Resolution OCM BOCES Administrative Budget
2. New Business
2.01 Personnel Actions
3. Adjournment
3.01 Adjournment
The agenda is subject to change. For more information, click on the BoardDocs link under the Board of Education tab on the F-M website.


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Obituary & Guest Book Preview for Kenneth Privett
Kenneth Privett Obituary
Published in Charlotte Observer on Jan. 17, 2014
First 25 of 245 words
: Kenneth Earl Privett, Sr. CHARLOTTE - Mr. Privett, 82, of Charlotte, NC died Wednesday, January 15, 2014, at CMC Union Hospital in Monroe, NC. Ken...
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"A wonderful man who will surely be missed! Thinking of you all! The Corman family" -
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Set sail from Port Canaveral on your 7 night Eastern Caribbean cruise on the majestic Oasis of the Seas.
Set sail from Port Canaveral on your 7 night Eastern Caribbean cruise on the majestic Oasis of the Seas.
Port Canaveral, Florida
The gateway to Central Florida, Port Canaveral provides access to the wonderful theme parks and entertainment complexes of Orlando, the spectacular wonders of the Kennedy Space Centre and the natural habitats of the alligator and Florida manatee.
Nassau, Bahamas
For a city now known for its warming sun and balmy breezes, Nassau has a tumultuous past. First settled by the English, the area was contested by England, France and Spain. For many years, Nassau was a home base for notorious pirates, and it was burned to the ground by the Spanish on three separate occasions. Since 1740, however, visitors from all over the world in search of both relaxation and adventure have made Nassau their favourite destination.
Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
St. Thomas is known as an idyllic holiday spot today, but its history is not so peaceful. In the 18th century, the island was at the centre of a bustling pirate culture, as swashbuckling pirates such as Blackbeard and Drake traded stolen wares in the port of Charlotte Amalie. Explore other Caribbean cruises.
Philipsburg, St. Maarten
When the Spanish closed their colonial fort on St. Maarten in 1648, a few Dutch and French soldiers hid on the island and decided to share it. Soon after, the Netherlands and France signed a formal agreement to split St. Maarten in half, as it is today. Philipsburg displays its Dutch heritage in its architecture and landscaping. The island offers endless stretches of beach, beautiful landscapes and great shopping.
Do you need accommodation before or after your cruise?
Cruise Sale Finder, the home of the lowest cruise prices, has teamed up with Hotels Combined to find you the best accommodation deals in cruise departure port cities.How to find hotel deals
Search for your hotel using this search panel. The hotel site works a little differently to cruises - we find the best hotel deal from top travel agent sites, then take you directly to that site for you to book the hotel deal. That way you find the absolute best hotel deal to complement our incredible cruise deals.
Important: We recommend you book your hotel AFTER your cruise is confirmed, so you can be sure your cabin is secured prior to purchasing flights and hotels.
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|Superior Oceanview Stateroom with Large Balcony view
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Please note: All prices featured are per person AUD (unless otherwise stated), and include non commission fares (taxes, fees and port expenses). Prices and availability are subject to change due to changes made by the Cruise Companies. Prices quoted are based on payments made via BPAY or bank transfer. Visa and Mastercard credit card payments incur a 1.2% transaction fee, 0.5% for debit cards and 2.8% for American Express.


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We look forward to CBTL drinks whenever we visit LA.Favorites are white chocolate ice blended and chsi latte
Is this restaurant family-friendly?
Is this a fast food place?
Is this a Kosher restaurant?
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Thanks for helping!Share another experience before you go.
3 Days in Los Angeles
We look forward to CBTL drinks whenever we visit LA.Favorites are white chocolate ice blended and chsi latte
I was not happy with the service as my server was rude. I also miss the breakfast options that Starbucks has to offer compared to Coffee Bean
This place is conveniently located in the middle of everything. It has all thing coffee and tea related and small food items. Service is fast and friendly. Wish there was more seating.
This is a quick review with one thing to say. You must try a Vanilla Latte at Coffee Bean. They use real vanilla powder and not syrup and it makes a real difference. There are loads of branches all over the place, so be sure to stop by one of them.
This place is tiny! Only 4 or 5 2-seat tables inside, and a few outdoors. The staff are friendly and the drinks were good. We had a dark roast coffee and a blended mocha. The bagels and croissants were a little skimpy on the flavor: 3 jalapno slices on the jalapeno bagel (nothing inside), very little pepperjack cheese in the... More
We do not have this brand where we live in Canada and that made us curious as to what was served here. We went in and were looking for tea. The owner/manager? came out from behind the counter and helped us choose items for us. She was super friendly and a go getter! If we are ever visiting in LA... More
Very friendly staff. We had a great morning to sit outside, enjoying our tea and food. Also very clean.
Good coffee, clean service nice place to sit and have a chat. Welcoming of families. Great service. Great size of cups for money
While i was visiting LA i stopped in here x2 as it was just down the street from me. Had to stop by and try the place out usually Starbucks is my fav
Stayed down the block at Mr C Beverly Hills and stopped in every morning for coffee. Cleab shop and as always, great food and drinks!
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text: Pravda, the Russian state broadcaster once the mouthpiece of Soviet disinformation. http://www.annaraccoon.com/politics/come-the-revolution/ They have just flown in a team to do a special report on how the UK is becoming a totalitarian regime, citing amongst others the jail of Nick Hogan who was jailed for allowing smokers in his pub. This follows a previous special report on how the EU is the reincarnation of the old Soviet Union. It is pretty safe to say they know a thing or two about the subject. How bad has it got when Moscow is worried about our slide towards totalitarianism?


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(800) 755-8809
East Coast Energy Products
28 years in business10 Route 36
W Long Branch, NJ 07764-1408
Additional Phone Numbers
- (732) 870-8809
Additional Email Addresses
- firstname.lastname@example.com
- firstname.lastname@example.com
Find a Location
BBB File Opened: 12/03/1998
Business Started: 01/01/1989
Business Started Locally: 01/01/1989
Type of EntityCorporation
Business Management
- Mr. Charles Hemwall, President
- Ms. Alyson Hochron, Admin. Manager
Business Category
- Fireplace Equipment - Retail
- Outdoor Kitchens
- NAICS: All Other Home Furnishings Stores
- Fireplaces
- Gas - Propane - Equipment & Supplies
- Energy Conservation Products & Services
Products & ServicesWood burning stoves, Gas stoves, Fireplace inserts, Fireboxes, Gas Logs, Fireplace accessories, Barbeque grills (propane and gas) , Fire Pits
Alternate Business Names
- Bad Ash Barbecue & Outdoor Center
Licensing, Bonding or RegistrationThis business is in an industry that may require professional licensing, bonding or registration. BBB encourages you to check with the appropriate agency to be certain any requirements are currently being met.
Methods of Payment
- Cash, Check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover
This company offers installation of hearth products: propane and natural gas appliances, wood burning & gas stoves, fireplace, outdoor kitchens, and barbeque grills for residential and commercial.
BBB Reason for Ratings
Licensing information is provided in the BBB Business Profiles to inform the public about industries that may require professional licensing, bonding, or registration. Better Business Bureau encourages you to check with the appropriate agency to be certain any requirements are currently being met.
Advertising Review
BBB promotes truth in advertising by contacting advertisers whose claims conflict with the BBB Code of Advertising. These claims come to our attention from our internal review of advertising, consumer complaints and competitor challenges. BBB asks advertisers to substantiate their claims, change ads to make offers more clear to consumers, and remove misleading or deceptive statements.
Government Actions
BBB reports on known significant government actions involving the business's marketplace conduct.
Out of Business
BBB reports on a company that is out of business for three years from the date the company closes its doors or ceases to do business.
Misuse of Better Business Bureau Name/Logo
BBB reports on unauthorized use of the Better Business Bureau's name and/or logo for as long as the business continues to use it in any advertising, or for one year after the business ceases any repeated unauthorized uses.
BBB reports on a business's bankruptcy as long as the business remains in bankruptcy.
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BBB reports when mail sent to the business was returned by the Postal Service.


text:
Marketed By :
LAP LAMBERT Academic Publishing
Sold By :
Kamal Books International
Delivery in :
10-12 Business Days
Availability: Out of stock
(Notify me when this product is back in stock)
Palm oil mill effluent (POME) is one of the wastewaters with the highest organic content which can be converted into useful materials.Improper discharge may create adverse effects to the environment.Conventional treatment including the use of ponding systems which requires large scale of land,biological treatment is insufficient to solve the problem. Microalgae are known to assimilate organic pollutants into cellular constituents and grow on non-arable land with high aerial productivity. Therefore,this study was conducted to find an alternative method to balance between environmental protection and sustainable reuse of nutrient available in POME.Initial study includes screening and isolation of microalgae from POME. Studies on the effect of photo periods,Carbon:Total Nitrogen ratio and organic loading rate on the lipid production and biomass were performed.A 5 litre laboratory scale reactor known as Hybrid Photo-Bioreactor was fabricated and used.In conclusion,highest lipid production from Chlorella pyrenoidosa in POME required low nitrogen concentration with C:TN ratio of 100:6, under continuous illumination of 24 hours and low organic loading rate of 36 kg COD/m3.d.


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Shillong, Aug 18 (UNI) A lecturer of a Shillong-based polytechnic institute was arrested for allegedly murdering his teacher wife Swagata Choudhury during a train journey in West Bengal about seven months ago, police said today.
Pinaki (Babla) Choudhury, a lecturer of Mawlai Polytechnic, allegedly killed his wife Swagata by throwing her out of a train in West Bengal on January 24. His 40-year-old wife was then a teacher of Jail Road Boys' Secondary School, Shillong.
Police said Choudhury's arrest came after the family members of the victim formally lodged an FIR against him.
Earlier, Swagata was reported to have died in a bizarre accident near Kharagpur, West Bengal while she was returning from a family vacation at Puri by Puri Express.
Only Swagata's husband and daughter had accompanied her while travelling by train.
According to the information received here, at 0530 hours of January 24, when the train came to a halt at Datun Station, West Bengal, somebody snatched Swagata's handbag containing valuables.
Most of her co-passengers were asleep at the time of the incident.
The lady gave the thief a chase across the platform and managed to retrieve the bag. When she was returning to the compartment where her husband and daughter were asleep, the train was already in motion.
Her desperate bid to board the moving train resulted in disaster.
She fell on the tracks, leading to serious injuries to her chest and right arm. Some railway staff picked her up and took her to the nearest hospital.
Woken up by her shrieks, some co-passengers tried to stop the train by pulling the alarm chain but in vain.
Only after the train had reached the next station Kharagpur, the husband could alight from it and leave by road for the place of the accident.
Meanwhile, Swagata died from excessive bleeding on way to Kharagpur where she was supposed to get better medical attention.
After completion of all legal formalities by police, the last remains of the deceased were consigned to flames at Kharagpur itself.


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International Association of Exorcists
The Lord's prayer in Latin
For all financial support we will put your name and a continual prayer for you on this website. Even if you can't afford to give an offering, we want to hear from you and add your name for the intercession of Christ to help you
We will be paying a tax for this contribution since we feel that the tax can help pay for Hospitals, Schools, Fire protection, and many benificial services that help the public at large. So no donation reciept will be given.


text:
USA W4M Leads Need very urgent high rate
This project received 10 bids from talented freelancers with an average bid price of $1017 USD.Get free quotes for a project like this
Project Budget$30 - $250 USD
Total Bids10
Project Description
Looking for Experienced personal section w4m fresh leads.
* I will pay $80-$85 Per k for w4m leads...
* Long term project leads need 3k daily..
I dont need any pop, shear, Fake leads.
I will pay freelancer and i will created milestone.
If you can do this Please bid here.....It's long term project Thanks!
Skills Required
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- Set your budget and the timeframe
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- Wall Street Journal
- Times Online


text: How do you express to your MBTI obsessed friend, crush, or partner just how much they mean to you in a language that they'll truly understand and appreciate? Why not do it with a Myers-Briggs themed Valentine's card! These are cheesy, but I had fun creating them. Enjoy – and […] 10 Valentine's Day Cards For MBTI Enthusiasts23 Jan, 2017 in INFJ Relationships by Megan


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Image by kuribo via FlickrArticle contributed by: ronsalvador
Another true story: My blogsite, "Blogger Fever" went viral the past 2 weeks as I've been lucky enough to have been featured by my guru, Jomar Hilario in his e-mail marketing work.
It's been an honor really. To have received so many congratulatory messages and inspiring words from such kind souls in and around the bloggerverse.
Then the flip side: Because of this too, my personal friends have suddenly made me THE expert in blogging (when in fact I am very much just a newbie and I know just bits and pieces here and there). As if to embarrass me some more, I've been bombarded by so many questions about blogging. These questions range from the mundane to the most technical. Majority of these I cannot answer (of course I cannot; I am no expert!) but promised to write about it soon in my blog.
Lucky for me, Holy Week 2011 came in and I found time to sit down and write a blog. Another lucky thing for me, my friend, Google was with me all throughout. This post is intended to answer the not so technical questions my friends were asking me about blogging. Hopefully, this will get them to start blogging themselves and experience the same things I have had. So here goes:
What is blogging?
A blog is a collection of writings on one or more subjects by a person, usually the owner of the website.
What's the Point of Blogging?
Most bloggers write simply for the pleasure of writing. It is just a 21st Century method of communication, I guess.
Some people like the idea of having hundreds of people logging on to their website every day to see what's new.
Some people blog for money and there are (according to google) a range of ways to make a blog earn money for you.
How Do You Get a Blog?
There are free blogs on sites like blogger.com or wordpress. To start your blogging career, pick any of these 2.
If you want to become the more serious blogger and plan to make this forever, then it is better to have a self-hosted blog. You can go to godaddy.com for great deals.
What do Bloggers Write About?
Absolutely anything. For starters, you may blogs about ordinary everyday life, looking after children, life on a farm cooking, etc. I started out with blogs ala-diary. My first one I started The 1st platform I used was blogspot in 2007. I have forgotten the username and password for this account in a short 2 weeks. Lol!
How Do You Write a Blog?
Now this sounds technical. But I'm answering it like how an average Joe would - Just like a diary, sweetheart.
Or if you are serious, make it like a newsletter. Informative, objective.
But most bloggers' style of writing is usually in the first person and is informal.
How to Be a Blogging Success Story?
My best answer to this would be – Do not try to be a success. Just make it a point to give visitors useful, preferably unique, knowledge that they cannot find elsewhere. Give, give and give some more. I learned early on to NOT start blogging to make money. Rather, you should be blogging to help people, to pass on your knowledge in a particular area. If visitors come to know you, to like you, and eventually trust you, they are more likely to follow your recommendations and allow you to earn .
How to be a Blogging Failure
I researched long and hard for this one. Google says : More than nine out of ten blogs fail because the blogger's prime objective is to take money from blog visitors. Most bloggers fail to give a unique insight or perspective on any subject; they even outsource their blog posts or use an article spinner to write them.
So there, readers. I am heavily into blogging. When I finally "got the idea", I could not stop. It really is a nice feeling to know that your blog is being read by people all over the world; that you are touching lives.
My mantra has always been "Information is Key!". Thru my website/s, I am able to live this. For that alone, I am happy and content.
God bless and good luck to everyone who reads this – ronsalvador
Message from ronsalvador.
Hi! You might want to check out some of my work.
My blog, Blogger Fever talks about my experiences as a newbie blogger.
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text: Neon Indian announced his new LP a follow up to Era Extraña. The album is called Vega INT. Night School and will be out on October 16th. The title is fitting as the new album fuses the sounds of Neon Indian and his previous moniker Vega; Palomo now on his twenties has spend most his time living in the night time and thus comes the name. The latest follow up from Annie is " Slumlord" a more Vega sounding track that at the beginning it sounds like a Mad Max dystopia track.


text:
Holland & Barrett Glorious Golden Linseed is rated out of 5 by 2.
Rated 4 out of 5 by seedfan from Golden Linseeds - useful and tasty I grind these to use in my loaves and sprinkle on my morning cereal. With some added fruit and yoghurt they make my porridge different every day!
Date published: 2015-09-16
Rated 5 out of 5 by Jennifer from Organic Golden Linseed has a pleasant, nutty flavour and I sprinkle it on cereals, into yoghurts and smoothies. It's one of the most potent sources of omega 3 fatty acids found in nature. For me linseed improves the quality of my hair, nails and skin. It's more expensive than brown flax seed but they are both quite similar in nutritional composition. I prefer golden one because the light colour blends into other dishes more easily.
Date published: 2013-03-13


text: Strider April 09, 2016 1:48 PM Classic pay driver. He's been nowhere in GP3 despite the fact his team mates finished first and third in the championship last year and he was more than three seconds slower than Hulkenberg during FP1 in Bahrain. Sure he's young, but has he showed the talent deserving of an F1 seat? No. Reply Report abuse 6 agree 1 disagree


text:
Is a car required to access this attraction?
Does this attraction require above average amounts of physical activity (long walks, climbs, stairs or hikes)?
Does this attraction have good scenic or skyline views?
Is this attraction good for couples?
Is this attraction good for big groups (greater than 5)?
Is this attraction good for small groups (less than four)?
Is this attraction pet friendly?
Would this be a good sunny day activity?
Would this be a good hot day activity?
Would this be a good cold day activity?
Thanks for helping!
This place is a gem in the Rockies! Great hot springs and friendly helpful staff. Rented one of the small cabins which is a great set up. You can park right in front of the...
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This place is a gem in the Rockies! Great hot springs and friendly helpful staff. Rented one of the small cabins which is a great set up. You can park right in front of the cabin so you don't have to lug all your stuff too far. Great little kitchen, wood burning stove, cozy bed with nice down comforter. You...
It was a really nice hotspring. We rented the ranch house. It was very nice. The owners are really nice and friendly. You can borrow the snowshoes for hiking up in the snow and it's free.
It's a bit out there but we love Redstone. These hot springs are a quiet, lowkey get away. There was about 6 other people the day we went and it was great for being able to keep an eye on the kids and relax.
We stayed in the Covered Wagon late March & it was the best experience! The Wagon comes with adorable electric fire place & cookies and coffee waiting for you! Nice comfy bed and storage for your things. It was just the right size for the two of us, made for a romantic, cozy weekend. :)
this is a lovely spot for a good soak, and to just relax for a couple days. the view from the pools is fantastic. we stayed in one of their rustic cabins that was darling. brought our own food, and the kitchen was well supplied w/everything we needed. (glad they had a coffee maker:)).
the only thing we didn't like...
Tucked down in Redstone, Colorado, this hideaway is about 3.5 hours from Denver. The hot springs are for real ! There are three open air hot spring pools (at three different temperatures) on the property plus one tub for two in a closed-in shed. One could relax in the pools into the wee hours of the night and quietly enjoy...
Don't miss this beautiful spot!
I could not imagine better views or a more peaceful way to spend a morning. My 10 year old and I purchased a morning pass to enjoy the hot springs for a few hours on a cool and July morning. We were staying in a nearby town and were looking for something low key to...
This place is quiet, remote and has one of the most stunning views as well. The Springs are clean and gorgeous. There are different pools to choose from for your soaking pleasure.
We stayed off site at their Fishing Suite in the downtown area of Redstone which is tiny and has art galleries and beautiful victorian homes. The suite was very nice. The town is lacking in good places to eat, go to Carbondale for a better selection. The first day at the springs was amazing and peaceful. The second day there...
I soaked in the springs while at the ranch, very pleasant, nicely appointed/ organized, not too crowded, not too hot.
Is there electricity for things like hair dryers?
What is the name of the hotel in the hot springs?
See all questions


text:
Spirits are high as the final teams are welcomed with pizza and champagne, across the …Read More »
WEBSITE: http://www.raidinfrance.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/raidinfranceofficial
DATES: 3 - 10 Jun 2017
COUNTRY: France
REGION: Languedoc-Roussillon Midi-Pyrénées
DISCIPLINES: Trek/Run, Mountain Bike, Kayak, Ropes, Canyoning, Caving, Navigation
DISTANCE: 430 km
WINNING TIME: 4 days (100 hours)
COURSE OPEN: 6 days (150 hours)
CATEGORIES: ARWS Mixed Teams 4
TEAM LIMIT: 50 Teams
LOGISTICS: Unsupported
WATERCRAFT: Kayaks provided
MANDATORY EQUIPMENT: YES - uses the ARWS standard list
RULES: YES - uses the ARWS standard rules
QUALIFIER: 1st Place receives free entry/ 2nd Place guaranteed spot to ARWC/ 1st all national team guaranteed spot to ARWC
PRIZE MONEY: Nil
OTHER PRIZES: Sponsor products
ENTRY FEE: 2,400 Euro
*NOTE: This information has been provided by the race organiser, please check their website for any updated information.
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text:
The Blind Man's Garden
Love is not consolation, it is light. From the author of "Maps for Lost Lovers" comes a searing, exquisitely written novel set in Pakistan and Afghanistan in the months following 9/11 - a story of war, of one family's losses, and of the simplest, most enduring human impulses. Jeo and Mikal, foster-brothers from a small Pakistani city, secretly enter Afghanistan: not to fight with the Taliban, but to help and care for wounded civilians. But it soon becomes apparent that good intentions can't keep them out of harm's way...From the wilds of Afghanistan to the heart of the family left behind - their blind father haunted for years by the death of his wife, by the mistakes he may have made in the name of Islam and nationhood, Jeo's steadfast wife and her superstitious mother - Aslam's prose takes us on an extraordinary journey.
Op werkdagen voor 23:00 uur besteld, volgende dag in huis
Dit vinden lezers Beoordelingen
Details Boekdetails
- Auteur(s) : Nadeem Aslam
- Uitgeverij : Faber & Faber
- Taal : Engels
- Uitvoering : Paperback (ENG)
- Aantal pagina's : 400
- Verschijningsdatum : 01-01-2013
- Afmetingen : 235 x 154 x 31 mm.
- Gewicht : 550 gr.


text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|Apr 3, 2001
|Filing date
|Sep 22, 1994
|Priority date
|Sep 22, 1994
|Fee status
|Also published as
|Publication number
|Richard G. Gibb, Paul D. Graham
|Original Assignee
|Federal Signal Corporation
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (32), Referenced by (20), Classifications (6), Legal Events (4)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
The invention relates generally to emergency signalling devices, and more particularly to an signalling method and apparatus for an emergency vehicle having a signalling frequency corresponding to the speed of the vehicle.
Emergency vehicles such as police cars, ambulances and fire trucks are required to perform under a wide range of driving conditions and at a wide range of speeds. For example, during the time that a police car is in pursuit of a suspect car, the police car may be driven at a high rate of speed for a given time, at a reduced speed while crossing critical intersections, and stopped once the vehicle is halted.
Under these varying conditions, the primary responsibility of the emergency signalling system is to warn the public of the presence of the vehicle, since the emergency vehicle is often driven in a non-standard manner during such extraordinary times. To effectively warn the public, conventional lights and sirens provide recognizable patterns and various colors or tones.
In essence, the flashing or strobing lights of the vehicle are broadcasting information to potential observers such that once detected, the observer is warned of the abnormal driving conditions that may soon be encountered so that appropriate precautionary measures may be taken. For example, light bars, composed of anywhere from two to twelve light elements, wherein each element is ordinarily capable of flashing at a rate of between 60 and 240 flashes per minute (one to four hertz), may be attached to vehicles to broadcast the warning information, as standardized by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE J-845, SAE J-595, SAE J-1318) for emergency warning lights. The lights may be filtered so that non-white colors allow the observer to differentiate between the white and red lights of ordinary vehicles and also to differentiate between the types of emergency vehicles. In short, the combination of flashing or strobing lights, at a particular pattern and of a distinguishable color signifies to the public the presence of an active emergency vehicle.
In general, a warning issued by an emergency signalling device attempts to maximize the effectiveness of the warning by including enough information to overcome observational difficulties that are potentially present in the general public. For example, emergency sirens often sweep through a range of frequencies at varying rates. The maximum and minimum frequencies are arranged so as to be within the most efficient detection portion of the human audio spectrum. The purpose of sweeping through a range of frequencies is to ensure that potential human observers will hear the siren over background noises and because many potential observers suffer from hearing loss at certain frequencies.
The rate of sweeping between the frequencies is also chosen to impart information, usually indicative of urgency, to the public. For example, a frequency pattern known as a "Wail" sweeps from approximately a 500 hertz tone to a 1500 hertz tone in ten to thirty sweeps per minute. A frequency pattern known as a "Yelp" sweeps between the same audible tones but at a much faster rate of approximately 150 to 250 sweeps per minute. Thus, the "Yelp" pattern is able to rapidly impart the signalling information, even to persons having limited ability to hear certain frequencies, so that a faster reaction than with the "Wail" tone is possible.
Parallel concepts are available in emergency lighting devices as well. For example, light bars provide a variety of colors in a single light package. These varying colors aid the stimulation of unoccupied visual channels in human observers and overcome visual deficiencies such as color blindness present in some potential observers. Additionally, having a greater number of flashing light elements provides a greater number of flashes to the eye, which potentially results in faster reaction times.
However, even when such flashes are noticed, the speed of the vehicle is somewhat uncertain until the vehicle itself is visually detected from a relatively close range. To some extent, with audible sirens an increase or decrease in volume in conjunction with the frequency shift resulting from the Doppler effect provide some hint of vehicle's relative speed and direction (i.e., velocity) to most observers, however there is no consistent pattern provided thereby that such observers can ordinarily recognize in any significant time. Moreover, non-stationary observers influence these effects with their own velocity, making it even more difficult to deduce an emergency vehicle's velocity from its siren when in motion relative to it. This is because the frequency shift and amplitude change over time will be different to a stationary observer, to an observer moving toward the vehicle and to an observer moving away from the vehicle.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method and apparatus for increasing the effectiveness of emergency signalling devices on vehicles by varying the frequency of the device in dependence on the speed of the vehicle.
A further object of the invention is to provide a method and apparatus of the above kind that enables an observer to determine the speed of a vehicle by observing signals produced by the signalling device.
Another object of the invention is to provide a method and apparatus as characterized above that varies the frequency between a maximum and minimum rate.
Briefly, the invention provides an emergency signalling device for broadcasting emergency signals from a vehicle. Mounting means connect the signalling device to the vehicle, and a detector converts the speed of the vehicle to a first electrical signal having information therein corresponding to the speed of the vehicle. Circuitry converts the first electrical signal to a second electrical signal having a repetition rate corresponding to the speed of the vehicle, and circuitry is also provided for maintaining the repetition rate between maximum and minimum rates. Means connect the second electrical signal to the signalling device for broadcasting emergency signals having a variable range of repetition rates corresponding to the speed of the vehicle between maximum and minimum signalling rates.
In one preferred embodiment, the emergency signalling device is provided in an emergency lighting device mounted to the surface of a motor vehicle. The signalling device includes a base and related apparatus for mounting to the surface of the motor vehicle, a flashing light mounted to the base, and a light transmissive housing supported by the base for enclosing and protecting the light. A detector detects the speed of the vehicle, and circuitry responsive thereto controls a flash rate of the flashing light so that the rate varies with the speed of the vehicle between minimum and maximum flash rates.
A method of operating emergency signalling devices mounted to a motor vehicle is also provided, the method comprising the step of generating an emergency signal that is characterized by a repetition of at least one audio tone or the flashing of lights. The rate of repetition of the emergency signal is maintained at a minimum value for speeds of the motor vehicle below a predetermined lower limit and at a maximum value for speeds of the motor vehicle above a predetermined upper limit, and the repetition rate of the emergency signal is adjusted to create a proportional relationship between the repetition rate and the speed of the vehicle for speeds between the lower and upper limits.
Other objects and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an emergency lighting device mounted to a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an electronic circuit employing analog circuitry for accomplishing the invention with a flashing light;
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an electronic circuit employing analog circuitry for accomplishing the invention with a rotating light;
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an alternate electronic circuit employing a microprocessor for accomplishing the invention;
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the steps taken by the microprocessor of FIG. 4 to accomplish the invention;
FIG. 6 is a graph representing the flash rate of the vehicle as a linear function of vehicle speed between minimum and maximum flash rates;
FIG. 7 is a graph representing the flash rate of the vehicle as a nonlinear function of vehicle speed between minimum and maximum flash rates;
FIG. 8 is a look-up table containing delay variables which provide the linear function of FIG. 7;
FIG. 9 is a partial schematic diagram illustrating circuitry for driving a speaker with alternating audible tones; and
FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an electronic circuit employing analog circuitry having an adder circuit therein for selectively influencing the emergency signalling frequency.
While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments thereof have been shown in the drawings and will be described below in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.
Turning now to the drawings and referring first to FIG. 1, there is shown an emergency signalling device generally designated 20 including a base 22 and incorporated mounting apparatus for mounting to a surface of a motor vehicle, ordinarily the motor vehicle's roof, and a plurality of light sources 24, 24 a mounted to the base 22. The base 22 supports a light housing 26 which is dimensioned to enclose and protect the light sources 24, 24 a, the light housing 26 being transmissive to at least one frequency of light generated by the light sources 24, 24 a. Although the exemplified signalling device is illustrated as a plurality of light sources 24, 24 a within a light bar, it can readily be appreciated that virtually any base, housing and light source design will suffice for the purposes of the present invention. Alternatively, the base 22 may be arranged to mount one or more speakers 24 c to the vehicle.
According to one aspect of the invention, a signalling device 20 (FIG. 4) is controllably driven to impart speed-dependent information to observers during an emergency situation. In one embodiment of the invention, such as in FIG. 2, the signalling device 20 includes at least one light source such as the single light source 24 a, which is capable of being intermittently illuminated by a drive means 28, for example, a suitably connected transistor, relay, silicon controlled rectifier, mechanical switch, or the like. In a second embodiment of the invention, shown in FIG. 3, a motor 30 is utilized to rotate a constant directional light source 24 b such that it appears to be intermittently flashing. It yet another embodiment, a speaker 24 c (FIG. 9) is controllably driven with one or more audible frequencies. To trigger the driving circuitry 28 to controllably flash or rotate the light source, or to drive a speaker, a suitable driving circuit is employed.
FIGS. 2-4 and 9-10 show examples of possible electrical driving circuits capable of controlling the operation of the signalling device 20 according to the invention. For simplicity herein, detector 32 is assumed to provide a voltage output having a magnitude that substantially corresponds to the speed of the vehicle, at least within the speed ranges described herein. For example, the speed-dependent voltage might be obtained by an appropriate electrical connection to a standard voltage-driven speedometer. Additionally, if necessary, the voltage obtained from the detector 32 may first be conditioned, for example, amplified, attenuated, or filtered to remove noise or other voltage spikes, before being utilized.
Alternatively, the detector 32 might instead be a radar or laser speed gun that is arranged to obtain the speed of the vehicle relative to the stationary ground, a magnet connected to the wheel that closes and opens a switch to trigger a counter in accordance with the revolution of a wheel, an air speed detector, and so on.
In any event, for further simplicity herein, the voltage obtained from the detector 32 will be assumed to vary between 0 and 12 volts in direct linear proportion to the speed of the vehicle between 0 and 120 miles per hour. Also for the sake of simplicity, the forward voltage drops of the diodes present in the circuits hereinafter described are disregarded. Finally, the input impedances of the various driving circuits are assumed to be high enough so that the influence of the driving circuits' impedance on the input voltage is negligible.
FIG. 2 shows one such suitable driving circuit, generally designated 34, wherein the voltage from the detector 32 is utilized in conjunction with a voltage-to-frequency converter 36 to intermittently flash the light source 24 a. In accordance with the invention, the speed of the vehicle, reflected in the output voltage from the detector 32, determines the frequency, i.e, flash rate, of the light source 24 a. Because typical emergency light sources require a relatively substantial amount of current during illumination, a driver 28 is employed, for example a relay, transistor, and so on as previously described. Although not necessary to the invention, instead of switching a single light source 24 a on-and-off, the signalling device 20 may be arranged to switch between differently colored lights.
It can be readily appreciated that the signalling device 20 will not be effective if the light flashes (or if tones are sounded) too slowly or becomes stopped as the vehicle is slowed or stopped. Similarly, it will also be appreciated that the signalling device 20 would be rendered ineffective it were allowed to transmit information at a rate that was no longer detectable by humans, or even if detectable, was too fast to be effective. For example, a four hertz rate might be deemed to be the maximum rate that is acceptable for still broadcasting an effective warning to a human eye.
Thus, in accordance with one aspect of the invention, when the voltage from the detector 32 drops below a predetermined minimum amount, for example one volt corresponding to ten miles per hour, diode 40 begins to conduct ensuring that at least one volt (V minimum) is always present at the input of voltage-to-frequency converter 36. In order to prevent the minimum voltage from influencing the voltage output by detector 32, (which may, for example be being tapped directly from a speedometer input or the like), a diode 42 blocks current from flowing in the reverse direction.
As a result of the minimum voltage supplied via diode 40 to the input of voltage-to-frequency converter 36, when the vehicle speed is less than a predetermined minimum speed, (for example below ten miles per hour which corresponds to one volt at the output of detector 32), a certain minimum frequency is output by the voltage-to-frequency converter 36. Accordingly, when the light source 24 a is turned active, for example by closing an activation switch 44, the light will flash at a minimum frequency that is arranged to be fast enough to be perceived by an ordinary observer. This minimum flash rate takes place even if the vehicle is completely stopped.
Similarly, in accordance with another aspect of the invention, when the voltage from the detector 32 exceeds a predetermined maximum amount, for example six volts corresponding to sixty miles per hour, a zener diode 46 connected to the detector 32 output breaks down and begins to conduct ensuring that no more than six volts is ever present at the input of voltage-to-frequency converter 36. A pair of resistors 48, 50 protect the blocking diode 42 and zener diode 46, respectively, from the voltage drops that result when the zener diode 46 begins to conduct. The values of resistors 48 and 50 are preferably chosen so as to neither draw excessive current nor significantly influence the circuit impedance over the range of all possible input voltages.
As a result of the maximum voltage, when the vehicle speed exceeds a predetermined maximum (for example sixty miles per hour) a certain predetermined maximum frequency is output by the voltage-to-frequency converter 36. Accordingly, even at high speeds the light flashes at a frequency that is arranged to be not too fast to be perceived by an ordinary observer.
Between the minimum and maximum vehicle speeds, the voltage output by the detector 32 remains proportional to the speed, for example four volts for forty miles per hour, three volts for thirty miles per hour, and so on. Neither diode 40 nor zener diode 46 conducts current at these voltages, and thus the output frequency of the voltage-to-frequency converter 36 is proportional to the vehicle speed.
An appropriately arranged voltage-to-frequency converter (voltage controlled oscillator) 36 provides the desired frequencies for the desired input voltages. Moreover, typical voltage-to-frequency converters also provide for selection of an appropriate duty cycle. Thus, for example, the minimum frequency might be selected as 0.4 Hertz (resulting in 24 flashes per minute) and the maximum at four hertz (resulting in 240 flashes per minute, according to the appropriate SAE standard) with a fifty percent duty cycle.
Instead of flashing the light, a light source that radiates light primarily in one direction (or two opposite directions) may be rotated at an appropriate frequency, thus appearing to be flashing when perceived by a relatively stationary observer. To accomplish the speed dependent signalling according to the present invention with a rotating light source, the pulses may be utilized to drive a stepper motor, via an appropriate driver 28, or alternatively a circuit such as the circuit in FIG. 3 may be utilized. Note that identically referenced numerals in FIG. 3 correspond to identically referenced components of FIG. 2 and function similarly.
In the circuit of FIG. 3, instead of the speed dependent detector 32 voltage being supplied to a voltage-to-frequency converter to provide pulses, the voltage is used to drive a direct current (DC) motor 30, the motor 30 having a variable speed of rotation dependent on the input voltage. Accordingly, the motor 30, mechanically connected to the light source 24 b, rotates the light source 24 b in proportion to the speed of the vehicle. As described previously, the voltage is clamped by the diode 40 and the zener diode 46 between maximum and minimum values to ensure that the speed of rotation resulting in the signalling by the light is neither too slow nor too fast to be perceived. To selectively activate and deactivate the emergency signalling apparatus, a switch 56 may be placed such as in FIG. 3 to selectively control both the application of current to the motor 30 and the illumination of the light source 24 b.
Because such motors require a relatively substantial amount of current to operate, an appropriate motor drive 54, such as a transistor-based current amplifier is used to supply the necessary current. Moreover, the voltage at the input of the motor drive 54 may be amplified or attenuated as necessary to adjust for the needs of the motor 30, or the motor 30 may be geared to adjust for the voltage. For example, the motor might rotate at 1000 revolutions per minute at twelve volts, 500 revolutions per minute at six volts. To obtain the desired 240 revolutions per minute at six volts, the motor can be geared down at a two-to-one ratio (i.e., 250 revolutions-per-minute at six volts) and the maximum voltage (six volts) attenuated to 5.76 volts. Similarly, if the light source radiates light in two opposite directions, the input voltage can be halved to halve the frequency of rotation.
In an alternate embodiment as shown in FIG. 4, a microprocessor 60 is employed to process the speed of the vehicle to output or otherwise control a signal pulse having a frequency ultimately dependent on the speed of the vehicle. The signal pulse is then used to operate the signalling device 20 in accordance therewith. The operation of the microprocessor 60 will be described in conjunction with the flowchart of FIG. 5. Of course, the steps described herein may be implemented as a single routine in a more complex program, thus allowing the light sources 24, 24 a to be flashed in any number of additional patterns.
Initially, at step 100, the microprocessor 60 checks the status of an input line 61 to determine if an emergency signalling operation is requested at emergency switch 62. If the emergency switch 62 is not on, the microprocessor clears the appropriate output line 64 to zero at step 102 by appropriately masking an output port thereof (such as by AND-ing the appropriate bit of an eight-bit output port with zero), and loops back to continually await activation.
If the input line 61 indicates the emergency switch 62 has been activated, at step 104 the microprocessor obtains a voltage reading from the detector 32 as sampled by an analog-to-digital voltage converter (A-D converter) 66 (FIG. 4). To prevent the input reading from being obtained while the A-D converter 66 is converting the most recent sample, a suitable latch might be employed, or alternatively, the microprocessor 60 could trigger the voltage sample by outputting an appropriate timing pulse, and subsequently delay long enough to ensure that the conversion was complete before the A-D converter 66 output data was read into the microprocessor 60.
In any event, once the proper voltage reading is obtained as digital data, at step 106 of FIG. 5 the microprocessor 60 compares the voltage data with a predetermined minimum value, either hard-coded into the executing program or stored independent of the program code in a non-volatile memory 68 operatively connected thereto. If the value is at or below the minimum, the microprocessor 60 sets a delay time variable equal to a maximum value (step 108).
For example, if the voltage is at 0.8 volts, corresponding to eight miles per hour, a 0.4 hertz minimum flashing frequency may be desired. Accordingly, a total delay time of 2.5 seconds is required (1.25 "On" and 1.25 "Off" assuming a fifty percent duty cycle). Thus, a delay variable is set that takes 1.25 seconds to decrement to zero within a loop. For example, if the execution time of a delay loop that decrements a register to zero takes 100 microseconds, then decrementing a register initially loaded with a value of 12,500 takes 1.25 seconds to reach zero and thereby exit the loop.
If however, the speed (as indicated by the voltage reading) is not less than or equal to the minimum speed, then the speed is compared to a maximum value at step 110. For example, if the voltage is at 7.7 volts, corresponding to 77 miles per hour, a 4.0 hertz maximum flashing frequency is desired. Accordingly, a total delay time of 0.25 seconds is required (0.125 "On" and 0.125 "Off" assuming a fifty percent duty cycle). Thus, the delay variable would be set (at step 112) that takes 0.125 seconds to decrement to zero within a loop. As in the above example, if the execution time of a delay loop that decrements a register to zero takes 100 microseconds, then decrementing a register initially loaded with 1,250 takes 0.125 seconds to reach zero and thereby exit the loop.
If the speed is neither at or below the minimum nor at or above the maximum, then the delay variable may either be obtained from a look-up table or calculated as shown in step 114. In the present example, if the frequency varies in direct linear proportion to the vehicle speed between the maximum (sixty miles per hour) and minimum values (ten miles per hour) then the function as represented graphically in FIG. 6 is obtained. Between the maximum and minimum values, the flashing frequency of FIG. 6 (inverse of total on plus off time) can be derived from the speed of the vehicle by executing the formula:
Accordingly, the on time (one-half times the inverse of the frequency, assuming a fifty percent duty cycle) is approximately obtained from the speed by executing the following formula:
Thus, if the speed detected equaled 35 miles per hour, then the variable would be set to delay for 0.2273 seconds. Continuing with the above example, to delay for this time in a 100 microsecond delay loop, the variable loaded into the decremented register must equal 2273.
Alternatively, the various required delay variables between the maximum and minimum speeds can be calculated in advance, and stored in a look-up table. For example, a corresponding value could be stored for every mile per hour difference, as shown in FIG. 8. Whenever the speed is obtained, the processor obtains the delay variable from the table by first rounding the speed to a value that corresponded to the resolution of the table, converting the value to an address of the appropriate memory location, and reading the value stored at that address.
If desired, a different linear function may be used to provide the formula or values in the look-up table. For example, to provide a repetition rate of 1.0 hertz at ten miles per hour that increases linearly up to 2.0 hertz at sixty miles per hour, the frequency can be derived from the speed of the vehicle by executing the formula:
Indeed, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, virtually any linear or nonlinear function can be utilized for corresponding the frequency of the flashing light with the speed of the vehicle. Thus, if it is found to be most effective to linearly increase the frequency between the minimum and maximum rates, such a result may be achieved with any of the circuits described herein. If instead it is desired to increase the frequency in a non-linear manner (exponentially, logarithmically, or by some other function), then an operational amplifier or the like arranged to output the desired voltage as a function of the input voltage would achieve the appropriate result in an analog circuit. If the microprocessor-based circuit of FIG. 4 is used, then altering the values stored in the look-up table (or the formula employed to calculate the values) provides the appropriate frequency as a function of vehicle speed.
In any event, once the delay value is obtained, the microprocessor 60 loops (or otherwise waits) for the appropriate delay time as shown in step 116 before toggling the output bit in step 118.
The variable speed signalling device 20 may alternatively comprise a sound source such as an audible tone generator connected to drive a speaker, horn, siren or the like. In such an embodiment, the sound source generates at least one audible tone that may be sounded and turned off intermittently. If two distinguishable audio tones are used, the tones can be alternately sounded, or swept between (for example like a musical portamento or glissando). For example, this may be accomplished by ramping a voltage into a voltage to frequency converter, and driving a speaker with the varying frequency. In this situation, the ramp rate is determined by the vehicle speed.
FIG. 9 illustrates two frequency sources (oscillators) 70, 72 arranged to drive a speaker in alternating tones wherein the rate of alternating therebetween depends on the speed of the vehicle. FIG. 9 assumes that the voltage output by the vehicle speed detector is clamped and otherwise made appropriately available as previously described with reference to FIGS. 1-3.
In keeping with the invention, the speed-dependent voltage is converted (by frequency-to-voltage converter 36) to a frequency for alternating between the sources. This frequency of alternation drives a relay 74 or the like via driver 28, which switches the relay contacts between a first oscillator 70 set at frequency A and a second oscillator 72 set at frequency B. As the relay 74 is driven, the outputs of the oscillators 70, 72 are alternately applied to an audio driver 76 or the like which drives the speaker 24 c.
In accordance with the invention, the repetition rate of alternating, sweeping or turning the sound on-and-off varies in either direct or inverse proportion to the speed of the moving vehicle between minimum and maximum limits. It can be readily appreciated that the audio frequency of the tone (for example 440 hertz) or tones (for example 500 hertz to 1500 hertz) does not necessarily vary with the speed of the vehicle; instead, the repetition rate of switching or sweeping between the tones or turning a single tone on-and-off intermittently is what is varied.
Moreover, it is feasible to factor in the external driving conditions, such as dry, wet, icy, and so on when determining the signalling rate, for example by adding to the detector 32 output a small voltage when wet and a larger voltage when icy. This might be manually switched in by the driver or automatically sensed.
FIG. 10 illustrates one circuit for selectively influencing the ultimate broadcast signalling frequency, such as for the purpose of slightly raising the frequency from its usual rate when conditions are icy. To accomplish the addition, a conventional operational amplifier-based adder circuit 80 is provided. For simplicity, the illustrated circuit presupposes that an appropriate negative voltage is available, but of course conventional biasing techniques may alternately be employed.
In any event, the voltage from the detector 32 is clamped between maximum and minimum values by diodes 40 and 46 as previously described, and fed into the adding circuit 80 through a resistor 82 of appropriate value. To add a voltage thereto, such as during icy conditions, a switch 84 is actuated to feed an augmented voltage into the adding circuit 80 through resistor 86. The switch 84 may be either manually or automatically actuated in response to a sensed external condition.
The currents resulting from the voltages through resistors 82 and 86 are fed into an operational amplifier 88 arranged with a feedback resistor 90 to act as a conventional adder. As is well known, the amount of gain or attenuation of each input depends on the ratio of the value of its input resistor, 82 or 84, relative to the value of the feedback resistor 90.
By way of example, for the input connected to the detector 32, a one-to-one ratio of resistor 82 to feedback resistor 90 renders neither gain nor attenuation, so the magnitude of the detector voltage is unchanged by the adder circuit 80. When the switch 84 is closed, a one-to-twelve ratio of resistor 86 to feedback resistor 90 adds one volt to the output of operational amplifier 88 if directly connected to twelve volts, i.e., the speed-dependent detector output voltage will be increased by one volt. However, since the output from amplifier 88 is in fact inverted, an inverting voltage follower 92 is provided to reinvert to positive voltage as needed.
Although this adder circuit 80 may be utilized in combination with any type of signalling means, such as the light sources 24 a and 24 b described in FIGS. 1-3 or the alternating frequency circuit of FIG. 9, the circuit illustrated in FIG. 10 uses the output frequency to drive a speaker 24 c. As before, the voltage from the adder circuit 80 is converted to a frequency by voltage to frequency converter 36. In this particular embodiment, the output frequency is an audio frequency and the driver 28 directly drives the speaker 24 c whenever switch 44 is closed.
Alternatively, in the microprocessor-based circuit of FIG. 4, the addition of voltage according to driving conditions is accommodated by including programming steps to add a value to the detected input voltage read in before the delay loop calculation or look-up is performed, or by subtracting a value from the delay-loop counter variable once obtained. Indeed, when the microprocessor-based circuit is employed, the flash rate versus vehicle speed curve can essentially be tailored to any desirable shape in accordance with the conditions. Moreover, with such a system, various lights, patterns and the like can further enhance the system.
For example, a police vehicle might have a blue light flashing at a fixed frequency and a white light flashing at a speed proportional to the speed of the vehicle. Since this provides a viewer with a reference rate, the speed of the vehicle is easier to determine at each moment. Duty cycle is also generally adjustable, for example to indicate direction (long on, short off if in front of viewer, short on, long off if behind viewer) and so on.
Finally, while the present invention has been described primarily with respect to signalling devices that are directly observable by humans, there is no intent to limit the invention to visible lights and audible tones. Indeed, the present invention contemplates any manner of broadcasting speed-dependent information from an emergency vehicle. Thus, the signalling device of the vehicle may be arranged to broadcast speed-dependent information on RF carrier frequencies for reception by a dedicated receiving device or the like. In this connection, commonly assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/286,624, filed Aug. 5, 1994, is hereby incorporated by reference.
As can be seen from the foregoing, a method and apparatus has been provided for increasing the effectiveness of emergency signalling devices on vehicles by varying the frequency of the device in dependence on the speed of the vehicle. The method and apparatus enables an observer to determine the speed of a vehicle by observing signals produced by the signalling device, which preferably vary between a maximum and minimum frequency rate.
|Cited Patent
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|International Classification
|Cooperative Classification
|European Classification
|Jan 9, 1995
Owner name: FEDERAL SIGNAL CORPORATION, ILLINOIS
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:GIBB, RICHARD G.;GRAHAM, PAUL D.;REEL/FRAME:007300/0174
Effective date: 19941114
|Oct 20, 2004
|Maintenance fee reminder mailed
|Apr 4, 2005
|Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees
|May 31, 2005
|Expired due to failure to pay maintenance fee
Effective date: 20050403


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Maggy London Abstract Sheath Dress
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Maggy London Size 2 or 4 Gorgeous Abstract Print Career Sheath Lined Dress Cap Sleeves
This lovely dress reminiscent of a Pucci print would make a stunning addition to your workday wardrobe! Simply add a skinny black patent belt & shoes for an effortless & chic look!
Measurements: Bust: 34" Waist: 30" Hips: 38"
Fabric: 97% cotton 3% spandex; lining: 100% acetate
Care: Dry clean only
Print: Abstract ~ Colors: Brown/Gold/White/Black
Condition: Previously owned, very gently worn & in excellent condition!
Style Type: Career Dress
Silhouette: Sheath
Sleeve Length: Cap Sleeves
Closure: Back Zipper
Dress Length: Knee-Length
Total Length: 39 Inches
Material: 97% cotton 3% spandex
Specialty: Lined 100% acetate
Care: Dry Clean Only
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Fri 4/28/17 - Mon 5/1/17 (4-7 days)
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