Entrepreneurship goes above and beyond an idea. You have to be able to envision every facet of your idea and be able to formulate a way in which you will physically implement the ways in which you want your idea to take form. Naturally there are teams who back an idea, which may (or may not) make things easier. You're aiming to make a tangible device and while it may seem overwhelming, by knowing the qualities of your product and things that go into the campaign of the product and the creation of the product, it makes implementation all the more possible.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Summary Post
Throughout the weeks I've definitely thought of different ways in which technology is implemented into almost everything. Furthermore, I never knew how central technology was on a basic level. At first my idea seemed simple to implement--it was based off of technology (recycled phones or iPads)--but as I thought out how to get basic information to a "metro-monitor" it got increasingly more complex. There were so many options of communication, and within communication there are still more processes to be thought about. Also, on a hardware aspect, there are a variety of things that go into the creation of a purposeful recycled piece of machinery, and if I had to think of power sources or durability or integration...that would have been too much. All in all, however, the project did a good job of making me think about the lectures and how I can apply them in real life which makes envisioning their function much easier. From a basic GPS idea, to a semi-functional entrepreneurial idea, my project has become more solid and tangible. However, there are still better ideas out there on the brink of becoming actualized and here are a few on which I've commented on...
Entrepreneurship goes above and beyond an idea. You have to be able to envision every facet of your idea and be able to formulate a way in which you will physically implement the ways in which you want your idea to take form. Naturally there are teams who back an idea, which may (or may not) make things easier. You're aiming to make a tangible device and while it may seem overwhelming, by knowing the qualities of your product and things that go into the campaign of the product and the creation of the product, it makes implementation all the more possible.
Entrepreneurship goes above and beyond an idea. You have to be able to envision every facet of your idea and be able to formulate a way in which you will physically implement the ways in which you want your idea to take form. Naturally there are teams who back an idea, which may (or may not) make things easier. You're aiming to make a tangible device and while it may seem overwhelming, by knowing the qualities of your product and things that go into the campaign of the product and the creation of the product, it makes implementation all the more possible.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Week 8 - Networks
Because each metro monitor will be connected to the Internet, each will have their own specific IP addresses. So when a commuter updates from a monitor, people back at metro central can see which monitor is posting and from what location. Therefore, if a commuter forgets to specify which bus is down or which line is delayed the controller can edit the post or specify which locations are down from the networks.
Furthermore each connection to the web should be a secure connection especially considering users are potentially connecting their devices to the monitor in order to download data. This also ensures that when commuters are transferring information from the metro monitors onto their phone devices, they won't be downloading anything unsafe (generally).
Furthermore each connection to the web should be a secure connection especially considering users are potentially connecting their devices to the monitor in order to download data. This also ensures that when commuters are transferring information from the metro monitors onto their phone devices, they won't be downloading anything unsafe (generally).
Monday, October 17, 2011
Week 7 - Operating Systems
Mobile devices are integral in this idea. If possible, metro applications could be published on both Android and iPhone operating systems for free. The application would include real-time updates, schedules, direct connection to a city's metro system's blog and forum site, virtual map that tracks transportation, and would be able to be integrated with other mobile services such as text message and/or e-mail alerts. Widgets (an Android function) could be created (much like the AccuWeather widget) that could be set to certain locations or routes or even specific schedules.
Back to RFID chips, some sort of scanner could possibly be developed for mobile phones so that they could scan and alert users of monitors with RFID chips. However, because active RFID chips (with special qualifications to withstand weather conditions, deterioration, etc.) are relatively expensive (ranging anywhere from $3 - $10) to mass produce and install on every monitor perhaps another application can be created to help mobile phone hone in on monitors such as a Bluetooth modification. Bluetooth could be constantly activated and automatically connect with a monitors which could also be installed with Bluetooth devices.
Another alternative is some sort of WiFi/web application. Every monitor could possess its own network and broadcast that outwards. Users could then connect to a monitor's network and be instantly directed to a mobile site that has all the information previously mentioned (e.g. schedules, updates, etc.) but users would be limited to accessing only the website and its facets.
Back to RFID chips, some sort of scanner could possibly be developed for mobile phones so that they could scan and alert users of monitors with RFID chips. However, because active RFID chips (with special qualifications to withstand weather conditions, deterioration, etc.) are relatively expensive (ranging anywhere from $3 - $10) to mass produce and install on every monitor perhaps another application can be created to help mobile phone hone in on monitors such as a Bluetooth modification. Bluetooth could be constantly activated and automatically connect with a monitors which could also be installed with Bluetooth devices.
Another alternative is some sort of WiFi/web application. Every monitor could possess its own network and broadcast that outwards. Users could then connect to a monitor's network and be instantly directed to a mobile site that has all the information previously mentioned (e.g. schedules, updates, etc.) but users would be limited to accessing only the website and its facets.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Week 6 - Blog Review
Los Angeles Transportation Headlines is a blog that not only aggregates news about public transportation in the LA area but provides information on public transportation and green commuting in general. The blog is controlled by the Dorothy Peyton Gray Transportation Library. As the blog itself mentions:
"We are strong advocates of using social media tools to connect communities and research."The main page of the blog lists recent news headlines about what's happening to public transit or laws/regulations/etc. pertaining to public transit in the LA Area. Posts also feature entries on not just "automobile transport" but information on cyclists, skateboarders, and pedestrians. Perhaps the most useful function the blog provides are the directories at the top which feature links to other libraries that chronicle information about public transit or research about public transit in general, other public transit-centric blogs, articles on significant metro issues, links to histories of public transit, and a list of what organization attempt to affect public transit that also accept advocacy from civilians.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Week 5 - Input/Output
For handicapped users, voice input could be used to maneuver around the metro monitors and users could plug in headphones to get audio feedback/directions/information from the monitor. If possible, certain cities could also print out schedules in Braille format for handicapped commuters in addition to the audio being heard. Or, blind commuters could also have a metro monitor send information to their phone where they can replay the audio whenever they needed to.
Additionally, handicapped commuters could also have special RFID tags attached to a bus pass or their wallet. The RFID tag would be active and any metro monitor would come with an RFID reader. When the monitor detects a "handicapped RFID tag" it can voice directions or automatically engage an audible noise to direct blind commuters to areas where they could stand freely or to the monitor itself. Once the commuter could get close enough the audio could turn off and the monitor could activate, prompting the blind commuter for directions.
Monitors could also serve as pseudo ATM machines (but for bus passes, if that makes sense). Each metro monitor could be attached with a magnetic stripe card reader so commuters could check the balance on their card (e.g. California's Metro TAP Card) or update information. Furthermore, handicapped commuters could have special metro cards that, when they scan it, they can choose the route(s) they need to take so that when they board the bus and tap their card onto a reader, the bus driver can be alerted of what stops need to be made (just in case the commuter forgets to press the stop button or if the bus driver forges to ask the commuter where s/he needs to be dropped off.
Additionally, handicapped commuters could also have special RFID tags attached to a bus pass or their wallet. The RFID tag would be active and any metro monitor would come with an RFID reader. When the monitor detects a "handicapped RFID tag" it can voice directions or automatically engage an audible noise to direct blind commuters to areas where they could stand freely or to the monitor itself. Once the commuter could get close enough the audio could turn off and the monitor could activate, prompting the blind commuter for directions.
Monitors could also serve as pseudo ATM machines (but for bus passes, if that makes sense). Each metro monitor could be attached with a magnetic stripe card reader so commuters could check the balance on their card (e.g. California's Metro TAP Card) or update information. Furthermore, handicapped commuters could have special metro cards that, when they scan it, they can choose the route(s) they need to take so that when they board the bus and tap their card onto a reader, the bus driver can be alerted of what stops need to be made (just in case the commuter forgets to press the stop button or if the bus driver forges to ask the commuter where s/he needs to be dropped off.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Week 4 - Hardware
As stated previously, commuters will have the ability of connecting to metro monitors via Bluetooth or through USB cables. The exchange between devices will undoubtedly leave traces of information from one another. So firstly, users will only be able to access a certain area of information on a metro monitor. When they connect their mobile devices they will have the option to download schedules or other information. However, they are limited to only that set of data on the monitor. Secondly, metro monitors will live for a single generation/cycle a generation being 5 years before they get replaced.
Furthermore, considering that information is easily retrieved on devices, all metro monitors will be overwritten or destroyed of properly as to not endanger commuters who have used the metro monitors. They will be promptly replaced by recently recycled devices for another generation and the process will be repeated.
The amount of memory required for each device will be small since most of the data will be stored on a server and the monitors are acting more or less like viewers. What they will store temporarily in their memory, however, are daily schedules or schedule changes.
Furthermore, considering that information is easily retrieved on devices, all metro monitors will be overwritten or destroyed of properly as to not endanger commuters who have used the metro monitors. They will be promptly replaced by recently recycled devices for another generation and the process will be repeated.
The amount of memory required for each device will be small since most of the data will be stored on a server and the monitors are acting more or less like viewers. What they will store temporarily in their memory, however, are daily schedules or schedule changes.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Week 3/4 - Application Software and Hardware
The different types of devices that would be integrated into each bus stop wouldn't be limited to GPS devices but also tablet-like monitors that would house different applications. For example, one tablet could utilize Microsoft Excel to list bus schedules or different bus fares for different routes. In the case of a changed schedule, central control could either edit the schedules in real time or publish a new document with an announcement. Furthermore, there could be USB ports allowing commuters to connect their phone and download different sets of data (such as a revised bus schedule to use for the rest of the day), or Bluetooth capabilities so phones could connect with a monitor and download info.
On a more technical side, each monitor's power supply would be connected within the bus stop or the monitor station at the bus stop so that no wires would be exposed. At the same time, solar panels would be installed on the roof of each bus stop or station to help aid in a power supply. Considering that each device would be constantly connected to power, USB hubs could be connected to the device and expanded throughout the station or bus stop so that commuters could even charge their phones (or any other devices that allow for recharging via USB connection) while waiting for their ride.
Commuters will also be able to get mobile updates on their phone via "application software for communications." Essentially they could subscribe to a certain mailing list for a certain bus route or bus routes and whenever an urgent update happened they would either get a text and an e-mail alerting them of sudden changes. Commuters with the ability to access the web could also visit the metro's blog to see different information or changes to the system, routes, etc. Lastly, a metro company could also set up a message board or forum where commuters could input statuses on late buses, accidents, or feedback. Commuters would be able to access the message board through their computers, through their phones (via texting or e-mailing capabilities), or through the monitor stations.
On a more technical side, each monitor's power supply would be connected within the bus stop or the monitor station at the bus stop so that no wires would be exposed. At the same time, solar panels would be installed on the roof of each bus stop or station to help aid in a power supply. Considering that each device would be constantly connected to power, USB hubs could be connected to the device and expanded throughout the station or bus stop so that commuters could even charge their phones (or any other devices that allow for recharging via USB connection) while waiting for their ride.
Commuters will also be able to get mobile updates on their phone via "application software for communications." Essentially they could subscribe to a certain mailing list for a certain bus route or bus routes and whenever an urgent update happened they would either get a text and an e-mail alerting them of sudden changes. Commuters with the ability to access the web could also visit the metro's blog to see different information or changes to the system, routes, etc. Lastly, a metro company could also set up a message board or forum where commuters could input statuses on late buses, accidents, or feedback. Commuters would be able to access the message board through their computers, through their phones (via texting or e-mailing capabilities), or through the monitor stations.
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