tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38904646625053870742023-11-16T01:24:10.843-06:00Knowledge of the GnomesA running commentary concerning life in the Second Life metaverse by Sir Amplebeak Tinlegs, Gnome.A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-88852009736499043172010-10-30T10:07:00.009-05:002010-10-30T10:23:40.658-05:00The Royal 69th Highland Attack Oboes NEED YOU!<span style="font-style: italic;">The Royal 69th Highland Attack Oboes, Airborne Division is looking for a few good .....uh......beings!</span><br /><br /><br />The Royal 69th Highland Attack Oboes is dedicated to the defense of the Caladonian way of life by means of general debauchery, lewdness, and the development of double reed instruments as tactical weaponry, whilst wearing tiny kilts and bunneh slippers.<br /><br />Many technical specialties are possible for those with suitable qualifications. Positions available include (but are not limited to) Duke of Earl, Lord and/or Lady SmellyBottom, Bikini Inspector, First Codpiece, and the ever popular Homicidal Maniac.<br /><br />Potential recruits should make application to;<br /><br />Amplebeak Tinlegs LP (Lustrous Potentate)<br />Somewhereinthewoods<br />Tanglewood Forest<br />Caledon TanglewoodA. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-30918604344205003612010-04-04T18:45:00.013-05:002010-04-04T19:26:22.220-05:00In Memoriam<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo2bO097q3pxutknXe2YvG-TJcKo-PBmWeAkyM2aKAhbgUEI7Z7_zYIQOOAox6sDOhd2CspIBKOacDSXPtwf8DBBxtppyZ3l5zt2nJDXIguBvCxPVTkh308Hf1As5HVntasLJTdY-1upnH/s1600/HPIM0005.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo2bO097q3pxutknXe2YvG-TJcKo-PBmWeAkyM2aKAhbgUEI7Z7_zYIQOOAox6sDOhd2CspIBKOacDSXPtwf8DBBxtppyZ3l5zt2nJDXIguBvCxPVTkh308Hf1As5HVntasLJTdY-1upnH/s320/HPIM0005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456435243926650018" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Critter<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">1992 - 2010</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">'... I have had cats whom I liked better than this, ...but he is a very fine cat, a very fine cat indeed.'</span><br /><div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Dr. Samuel Johnson</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> (As reported by his biographer James Boswell)<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span>He was his master's faithful companion for just over 18 years. He had no regard for my fortunes or lack thereof and was my steadfast friend, often my only friend, through the bad times and the good.<br /><br />He was cantankerous, imperious, and demanding but also considerate, empathic, and affectionate. And an excellent listener, though very opinionated.<br /><br />He was the bane of rottweilers, yet he befriended my parents elderly poodle. He loved kittens and puppies, an unusual trait in a tomcat, and he adopted and raised several over his lifetime. My labrador retriever was one of those he took under his wing. I don't think he ever got over how large she grew to be, and so quickly.<br /><br />The end came quietly in his sleep between the hours of 2 and 4 AM on the morning of April 25, 2010. He was in the company of those he loved, his master and his master's wife, and the other pets he shared a home with.<br /><br />He is survived by his humans, two moggies, a labrador retriever, and a red-ticked coon hound.<br /><br />After 18 years it is hard to adjust to his not being here. I can't read a book without noticing he isn't snuggled into my side as I sit in my old leather armchair. Every time I sit and read with a dram of whisky near at hand I shall be thinking fondly of him.<br /><br />Aye, he was a fine cat and a fine friend. The finest of all the cats I have known.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></div></div></div>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-47558633719715228402009-10-17T19:39:00.005-05:002009-10-17T20:03:06.347-05:00A Belated CongratulationsI fear I have been most remiss in my blogging duties.<br /><br />On August 25, 2009, Charles Burnett III successfully broke the land speed record for a steam powered car with an average speed of 139.843 mph on his two runs over the measured mile. The previous record had stood since 1906.<br /><br />The following day Don Wales set another land speed record for a steam powered car, the record for a measured kilometre with an average speed of 148.308 mph<span class="style1"><strong></strong></span> on two runs.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/OqPir7ZwQZs&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/OqPir7ZwQZs&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object> <br /><br />My congratulations to the British Steam Car Challenge Team. A job well done!<br /><br />I am saddened to report that my own challenge to the record has met with some severe setbacks. In addition to a lack of appropriate venues in world for such an attempt it seems that the FIA has no methodology for verifying virtual speed records, assuming virtual speed could even be translated accurately into real miles or kilometres per hour.<br /><br />On the other hand the building of the Spirit of Caledon did stretch my building skills a bit so the effort was not for naught. And with a bit of luck the burns from scalding will heal soon.<br /><strong style="font-weight: normal;"><strong><br /></strong></strong>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-38083452627587472412009-08-21T09:40:00.004-05:002009-08-21T10:49:12.121-05:00I feel a Need for Speed!Some time ago my typist made me aware of the <a href="http://www.steamcar.co.uk/index.html">British Steam Car Challenge</a>, an attempt to break the 127 mph Land Speed Record for steam driven cars. The current FIA certified record was set by a modified Stanley Steamer in 1906. Another record was set by in 1985 by Bob Barber at 145.607. However the Barber record was not FIA certified.<br /><br />The lads of the British Steam Car team are currently at Edwards Air Force base attempting to break both records with their steam turbine powered car.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/fLs78GsWWkM&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/fLs78GsWWkM&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><a href="http://www.steamcar.co.uk/design/details.html">The car</a> uses several flash steam generators fired with LP gas to provide steam for a turbine that drives the rear wheels directly. The theoretical top speed is around 170 mph.<br /><br />For a FIA record the car must make two timed passes through a one mile segment of the trial venue. The second run must be in the opposite direction of the first. The average speed of both runs is the official speed for the trial.<br /><br />The first attempt was this past Wednesday. The first run the car performed quite well, but mechanical difficulties prevented the second run. I believe they intend to make the attempt again today. I wish them luck.<br /><br />When I first heard about this attempt I began to wonder. Why is it that there is no challenge from Caledon? After all are we not Steampunks? So I sat down at my desk in my study and began work on a Victorian steam land speed record car.<br /><br />After several months of work in my shop I now have a completed vehicle with which to attempt to take the record. I call it "The Spirit of Caledon".<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KFH3kSKiUGQwa-WXzZ9dg-16XdlgR3TBfpIwFHniofOepx6ZEa_YPx6Ig8EDBYv23HuxFVfGQg6fKcb-MYfxvWh6o3QmJzr-oHOnRGtBPWsO7YLrcCJmW_imsTOZAYFff2mnsn6H_Lz2/s1600-h/spirit_001.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KFH3kSKiUGQwa-WXzZ9dg-16XdlgR3TBfpIwFHniofOepx6ZEa_YPx6Ig8EDBYv23HuxFVfGQg6fKcb-MYfxvWh6o3QmJzr-oHOnRGtBPWsO7YLrcCJmW_imsTOZAYFff2mnsn6H_Lz2/s320/spirit_001.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372436923674033570" border="0" /></a><br />I attempted to limit myself strictly to the use of Victorian/Edwardian technology, and I feel I did fairly well on that goal. Still the two cars are very similar in several regards.<br /><br />The chassis is made of tubular carbon steel rods fastened together in machined steel sockets by rivets (since arc welding wasn't available to me) and reinforced by use of the best adhesives I could find. The body shell is a thin but rigid laminate of wood and thin brass plies with spruce framing. The wheels are the new wire spoke types commonly used on bicycles, but much sturdier in build. The spokes are covered in sheet metal to aid in airflow.<br /><br />Like the British team I decided to use one of those new fangled turbines. However since our metallurgical arts are not as advanced in some ways my turbine is somewhat larger and heavier than theirs. I opted to drive the wheels through a two speed planetary transmission system so as to give better torque for acceleration. This is to compensate for shorter venues for timed runs (more on that later) and hopefully will counter the increased weight.<br /><br />The steam is provided through a flash steam generator, as on the British car. I couldn't find any "LP Gas" in Caledon so I fuel my car with highly compressed town (coal) gas. The exhaust is total loss since the goal here is weight savings and speed, not range.<br /><br />I had originally planned to make an attempt at the record before now, but remaining technical issues and other personal matters have delayed me.<br /><br />One such technical problem to be resolved is where to actually make such a record attempt. Dry lake beds are exceedingly rare in Second Life and non-existent in Caledon.<br /><br />The North road to Penzance is long and level enough but far too narrow and is also lined with homes. I have done some initial testing there but there is little margin for error. I gave poor Mr. Drinkwater quite a fright one evening during a test run.<br /><br />(I also damaged some flowers in the gardens of a few homes when I swerved to miss Mr. Drinkwater. My apologies to my neighbours and please forward the bills for damages to me at my home in Eyre.)A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-43055326786521803452009-08-19T20:43:00.002-05:002009-08-19T20:45:45.237-05:00Oh so True...<object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/urNyg1ftMIU&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/urNyg1ftMIU&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-14539250938176109162009-04-19T19:56:00.002-05:002009-04-19T19:59:15.920-05:00The Spotniks!<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ObCyU79Bqqs&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ObCyU79Bqqs&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br />Appropriate music for a cruise in your Astro-Gnome.A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-30435413351629563892009-02-16T19:38:00.004-06:002009-02-16T19:44:23.699-06:00O'Toole Plays Your Favorites!<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/CqL3L1VG_G8&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/CqL3L1VG_G8&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br />Knuckles O'Toole that is.<br /><br />Although there is a faint resemblance to a certain chap over Steelhead way.A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-85451909002275222232009-02-03T19:32:00.002-06:002009-02-03T19:34:40.144-06:00Blame Hotspur.....<form action="http://chaz.bdmonkeys.net/battle.php" method="get"><table align=center width=400 cellpadding=4 cellspacing=1 border=0><tr><td bgcolor=black align=center><p style="color:red;font-family='times new roman';font-size:16px;"><b>What Is Your Battle Cry?</b></p></td></tr><tr><td bgcolor="#ffbb77" align=center><p style="margin:10px;font-family:'times new roman';font-size:16px;color:#000;"><font face="old english text mt,old english text" size=+3>W</font>ho is that, rampaging over the mountains! It is <b>Sir Amplebeak</b>, hands clutching a piece of chainlink fence! He howls homicidally:</p><p style="margin:11px;font-family:'times new roman';font-size:18px;color:#000;"><b><i>"I'm going to cram objects into you from every conceivable angle!!!"</i></b></p></td></tr><tr><td align=center bgcolor="#aaaaaa"><p style="font-family:'times new roman';font-size:14px;color:#000;"><b>Find out!</b><br />Enter username: <input type="text" name="usrname" value="Sir Amplebeak"><br />Are you <input type="radio" name="sex" value="f">a girl, or <input type="radio" name="sex" value="m"checked>a guy ?<br /><input type=submit value="Submit"></p></td></tr><tr><td bgcolor=black align=center><p style="color:red;font-family:'times new roman';font-size:12px;margin:0px;"><b>created by <a href="http://www.livejournal.com/users/beatings/"><font color="#cc00ff" face="times new roman">beatings</font></a> </b>:<b> powered by <a href="http://www.bdmonkeys.net/"><font color="#cc00ff" face="times new roman">monkeys</font></a></p></td></tr></table></form></b>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-42564471130279978772009-01-22T19:49:00.004-06:002009-01-22T20:00:58.210-06:00More on the DobleMany readers have noticed my infatuation with the Doble Brothers and their automobiles and other derivatives of their steam technologies, such as the Besler Brothers Steamplane of 1932 and the McCulloch attempt at resurrecting the production steam car in the early 1950's.<br /><br />But I never seemed to have gotten around to providing a photo of an actual Doble automobile. In part this is because only 40 to 45 such cars were ever built and few survive.<br /><br />However one of the best surviving examples of the marque is in the collection of renowned entertainer, car nut, and steam enthusiast Jay Leno, who has seen fit to make a video about his Doble and generously allow others to link to it.<br /><br /><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://widgets.nbc.com/o/47f1317f105123ad/497920dc3b8f0d72/47fe70d4555df05a/ab6692fa/-cpid/828b41aabfd6c81" id="W47f1317f105123ad497920dc3b8f0d72" height="283" width="384"><param name="movie" value="http://widgets.nbc.com/o/47f1317f105123ad/497920dc3b8f0d72/47fe70d4555df05a/ab6692fa/-cpid/828b41aabfd6c81"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><param name="allowNetworking" value="all"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></object><br /><br />Thank you Mr. Leno, and if you should ever find yourself in Caledon Eyre please do drop by for some Bellambi Reserve Whisky and test drives of virtual steam trucks and tanks.A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-17777074024132923082009-01-20T19:10:00.006-06:002009-01-20T19:51:34.310-06:00The Quest for the Northern Gnomes, Part OneIt all began a while back in the not so distant past when I was paying a visit to my typist. We had been enjoying a rather nice whisky made in the realm to the north of my typist's home, a place called Tin-a-see. Apparently a chap named George makes it in away in some hollow.<br /><br />My typist made mention that he and his good lady had plans to travel to that far land in the near future, though somewhat further to the east. To a settlement called Chatty-new-gah, or something of that sort. I confess I wasn't paying attention as I should have been being somewhat distracted by a building issue back home in Caledon that vexed me. In fact I had been trying to sneak a peek at my pocket watch and trying to think of a way to excuse myself without seeming rude for some time.<br /><br />Then he casually mentioned that he had heard rumour of a tribe of gnomes that dwelt in the mountains therebouts and asked me if I would consider traveling with him and his lady in the search for the gnomes of Chatty-new-gah.<br /><br />Well if my pointed little ears had perked up anymore at that then they would have punctured the brim of my hat! Of course I agreed to accompany them and we proceeded to lay the plans for our grand adventure.<br /><br />The day of our departure broke with rain on the horizon and falling temperatures. We rapidly packed some extra warm and dry clothing in expectation of a cold wet day and set forth from my host's estate in Ali-bah-ma. Our predictions of less than ideal traveling weather came true but our spirits remained un-dampened.<br /><br />Our destination for the first days travel was a way house my typist was familiar with in the north of the realm of Ali-bah-ma. By the time the cold drizzle was just starting to weigh on our spirits our lodgings for the evening came into view and a homey little place it was.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK8N6yVRkaD099cuknxzMXHUPT6-ML0c50SrtRwrewAPwLQ-HzvtVFE_xv5CF3Umy6Y5xEQ4SWgxUecOFlSi5UgRHlza_MPQ7TI72m2cfEkneia1pFXP2bZERk_rY5hqAN9V0m5T3xdaj5/s1600-h/HPIM0040.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK8N6yVRkaD099cuknxzMXHUPT6-ML0c50SrtRwrewAPwLQ-HzvtVFE_xv5CF3Umy6Y5xEQ4SWgxUecOFlSi5UgRHlza_MPQ7TI72m2cfEkneia1pFXP2bZERk_rY5hqAN9V0m5T3xdaj5/s320/HPIM0040.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293556986879683410" border="0" /></a>Though obviously built to human scale it showed the definite hand of gnomish influence in its rustic simplicity and solidity and I breathed a heartfelt sigh of relief that my night's rest would be spent in warmth and comfort.<br /><br />We unpacked and started a nice fire in hearth and a settled in for a restful night after a wee dram of Mr. George's whisky.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir3tzdBzp6yKGoMbIRPQY0hC4q06N7cWQdmWSg8qIsWgzO0CBsZvQg2EWJ_d3P9W21jj6I6KoEIhIBXFTpcxnysqtJ8WjN8BtJlJbZORHrdLWAqNaiyArsNPlicjj31X0liRf8rXJWRQ49/s1600-h/HPIM0036.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir3tzdBzp6yKGoMbIRPQY0hC4q06N7cWQdmWSg8qIsWgzO0CBsZvQg2EWJ_d3P9W21jj6I6KoEIhIBXFTpcxnysqtJ8WjN8BtJlJbZORHrdLWAqNaiyArsNPlicjj31X0liRf8rXJWRQ49/s320/HPIM0036.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293557515271323634" border="0" /></a>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-14285335163513846462008-11-29T12:29:00.002-06:002008-11-29T12:29:01.061-06:00ROLL TIDE!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-CewwNJUEAYVwXoVWxRn9RCxFrAb8ShlBe1jWmCaFjPlcZKFGS5dHeqjHWD4r7WOXpyedgaUhMHt0LlxdFxHNHIlRNhfBrag-osdfo_7QA8i9rmJaOTXNtQewC623HwI_Iq44-WcpViAZ/s1600-h/HPIM0177.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-CewwNJUEAYVwXoVWxRn9RCxFrAb8ShlBe1jWmCaFjPlcZKFGS5dHeqjHWD4r7WOXpyedgaUhMHt0LlxdFxHNHIlRNhfBrag-osdfo_7QA8i9rmJaOTXNtQewC623HwI_Iq44-WcpViAZ/s320/HPIM0177.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274112839674897010" border="0" /></a><br />Gnomey and Gnorma, our Crimson Tide house gnomes eagerly await the<br />kickoff of this year's Iron Bowl classic.A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-22699388669341311452008-10-16T19:44:00.004-05:002008-10-16T19:48:00.861-05:00New from the gnome's workshopI apologize to my readers (if I still have any) for my extended absence.<br />Real Life matters in my professional and personal life have overtaken me<br />and kept me from online activities. But I have not been entirely<br />non-productive in my exile.<p>I started my First Life career in electronics over 30 years ago in my<br />pre-teens. In those days vacuum tubes still dominated consumer<br />electronics such as audio equipment. This was especially true of the old<br />garage sale finds that I could afford to get my hands on. While the<br />change to solid state technology for consumer electronics was nearly<br />complete by 1980 the vacuum tube soldiers on to this very day<br />particularly in high power applications (The Magnetrons in Microwave<br />ovens and "picture" tubes in TV's being two common examples).</p><p>So it will probably come as a shock to many folks that vacuum tube audio<br />equipment is still produced and is enjoying a renaissance in popularity<br />amongst music lovers. The reason is fairly simple, tube equipment tends<br />to soften the sometimes dry and harsh sound many perceive with digital<br />recordings. I get tinnitus listening to many digital recordings on<br />modern equipment, but I noticed some years ago that when listening to<br />digital sources through the aux input of my 1939 vintage GE Radio (all<br />tube) I could listen for hours on end with no ringing in my ears. Even<br />at fairly high volumes.</p><p>So when I decided it was time to buy myself a decent sound system I<br />decided I wanted one of these wonderful new tube amplifiers as the<br />foundation. So hoping for ringless ears and audio nirvana I set forth on<br />my quest.</p><p>My boundless optimism was soon squashed flat by sticker shock. These new<br />age tube devices are quite expensive relative to good quality solid<br />state gear. So much so that the budget I had set would barely cover the<br />purchase of such an amplifier, let alone the rest of the system.</p><p>Kits provide a much more budget friendly alternative, but still as<br />expensive as good off the shelf solid state gear. More to the point was<br />time. If I'm hard pressed for time to scribble diatribes into this blog<br />when could I realistically expect to find time to assemble electronics?</p><p>In the end I bought a solid state amplifier, a A340 by Cambridge Audio.<br />This is a nice little English designed and Chinese built unit that many<br />reviewers feel has a very tube-like sound and is easy on the ear. After<br />a year of listening to it I agree. The sound is quite smooth and not the<br />least bit fatiguing to listen to even at high volumes. But the nostalgia<br />bug has bit and I still yearn for glowing bottles atop my sound<br />equipment. What to do? What to do?</p><p>Then one fine night when I got a chance to visit fair Caledon I was<br />sitting in gnomular form atop my keep in the garden watching the sun set<br />over Caledon Eyre I had a flash of inspiration. I could build myself a<br />tube amp in Second Life, along with a pair of speakers, without spending<br />one red pence! Or Linden Dollar. Whatever. All it would cost me is a bit<br />of time.</p><p>It only took ten minutes or so to rough out the general form of the<br />amplifier. I then spent an hour roughing out a prototype tube. The tubes<br />I came up with were very realistic models of real audio tubes in current<br />use, but they were prohibitively high in prims. Since I am not a master<br />of the sculpted prim I sent out a hue and cry for assistance over the<br />Caledon channel.</p><p>My request for aid was answered by Mr. Vivito Volare who in very short<br />order had produced very authentic sculpted glass envelopes for antique<br />bulb type and modern 2A3/300B type triodes. I assembled some tubes then<br />placed them on the amplifier chassis and hey presto! An authentic stereo<br />tube amp of my own, albeit in virtual form. Last but not least I gave it<br />a bit of functionality by adding a media changer script.</p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvk-S7xxzLdOIY08qnRy795qTKRbLik8ia9ht_pFDOVArsm_41OnOWROUzXWndcgYS2dewwUDR_9GbGqsDOCHNH6D9uO7D_YpbHgPTc7QRZZGb-fqFM4_UD4_f2ygmBVzDsu00ZHG51BF2/s1600-h/amplifier_001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvk-S7xxzLdOIY08qnRy795qTKRbLik8ia9ht_pFDOVArsm_41OnOWROUzXWndcgYS2dewwUDR_9GbGqsDOCHNH6D9uO7D_YpbHgPTc7QRZZGb-fqFM4_UD4_f2ygmBVzDsu00ZHG51BF2/s320/amplifier_001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257916501803055554" border="0" /></a></p><p>I call it Amp's Amp. I am also considering naming it the Tinlegs-Volare<br />SET-1 or TVS-1S. The tubes even glow!</p><p>Of course an amplifier alone is no good, so I built a pair of speakers<br />to match. For reasons of visual interest I used a speaker cabinet type<br />known as Voight Pipes, or TQWT's. This is a high efficiency design<br />commonly used with a single full range driver per cabinet. They are very<br />poplar among audiophiles for their acoustic "transparency" and among<br />audio hobbyists because they are relatively easy to build in a garage<br />workshop. I chose this style for its unique appearance and retro tech<br />flavor. To add to the retro look I gave them a nice walnut burl texture.</p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN6dQHtJtdfHCkkqWSu04e2bymkPznnhg77f5Wb_U5YnvsNGynsm62xi7knSubR8uYrKd4N2b77xL9n2WTX9Jj3iZ57R7eQbqz8Fl2qqCjuY9meSw8ld5W5ZZ8FNUceHqoCrzStLd7rwkt/s1600-h/vpipes_001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN6dQHtJtdfHCkkqWSu04e2bymkPznnhg77f5Wb_U5YnvsNGynsm62xi7knSubR8uYrKd4N2b77xL9n2WTX9Jj3iZ57R7eQbqz8Fl2qqCjuY9meSw8ld5W5ZZ8FNUceHqoCrzStLd7rwkt/s320/vpipes_001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257917108814868994" border="0" /></a><p>Once I finalize which Shoutcast streams it will be provisioned with I<br />will offer the amp with speakers for a modest price.</p><p>Ahhhh. Nothing says relaxation like Miles Davis played through some glowing bottles.<br /></p>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-63465904130041868602008-06-13T17:24:00.007-05:002008-06-13T17:44:44.439-05:00A car just for me!<object height="344" width="425"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/O55MEe95dcs&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br />The 1956 Nash Astra-Gnome Showcar. The "Car of the 21st Century!" was based on the production Nash/Hudson Metropolitan economy car.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2iHa7zBbhTTL0_IQqCtPTl24sYrw2DM6KOl4SGCyDUznPxy1Qepzb98TTMnsFteOTiKevcMkRuXvrzpNMRrXHNuXqHSK956XtKP-GOS5_CylS-NM3Nka82tSECw3Bud8diObmQNGR7y4r/s1600-h/astra1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2iHa7zBbhTTL0_IQqCtPTl24sYrw2DM6KOl4SGCyDUznPxy1Qepzb98TTMnsFteOTiKevcMkRuXvrzpNMRrXHNuXqHSK956XtKP-GOS5_CylS-NM3Nka82tSECw3Bud8diObmQNGR7y4r/s320/astra1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211498984421415090" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPv4GipRT6hbvnSCBe9xX9fcqtQxD4jd1d74QblYGgjwjDg4orqmH2CRiYBoBT1k_8orWuSuxB6nXklIMCkLO7S55oPnwexy24uQWlCK1RmiFyh-Xd1PG4Ft7TVxvxFZB4nuJaDHg9gOR/s1600-h/astra3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPv4GipRT6hbvnSCBe9xX9fcqtQxD4jd1d74QblYGgjwjDg4orqmH2CRiYBoBT1k_8orWuSuxB6nXklIMCkLO7S55oPnwexy24uQWlCK1RmiFyh-Xd1PG4Ft7TVxvxFZB4nuJaDHg9gOR/s320/astra3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211499405564151410" border="0" /></a><br />This is the Metropolitan in its normal street attire.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQwcZYHws41jy9FQgnAiVQpCOjOZ3amZZBXwb_4A_MeH3dYP0-H_7v3Qd1KcUgA02IKSx0PxSSo3zbd8t7EtC5ul79VT7tmhEvhb_XhaqgoDzD11kjtNzPmWnXoKOQ7xStMOD4-UqbfvoW/s1600-h/metro.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQwcZYHws41jy9FQgnAiVQpCOjOZ3amZZBXwb_4A_MeH3dYP0-H_7v3Qd1KcUgA02IKSx0PxSSo3zbd8t7EtC5ul79VT7tmhEvhb_XhaqgoDzD11kjtNzPmWnXoKOQ7xStMOD4-UqbfvoW/s320/metro.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211499412227515570" border="0" /></a>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-31046592088608016712008-06-03T20:43:00.004-05:002008-06-03T20:57:42.938-05:00(O.O.C.) Not exactly in keeping with the Steampunk Theme, but I like 'em!I always wanted to build a flathead V8 out of old lawnmower engines when I was growing up!<br /><br /><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/FBSdl_0EQpg&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/FBSdl_0EQpg&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="355" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br />More! I love the detail on the blown Chevy smallblock.<br /><br /><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/BE2QM-jYL-8&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/BE2QM-jYL-8&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="355" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br />This one isn't a replica, but a ground up design by the builder. Great exhaust note. Many a time I've wondered what a Packard Twin Six would sound like with glasspacks.<br /><br /><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/mutb7KgA9NM&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/mutb7KgA9NM&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="355" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br />And one for HS.<br /><br /><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/K_VtXzXG1gE&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/K_VtXzXG1gE&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="355" width="425"></embed></object>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-26166524878894200172008-06-03T20:09:00.003-05:002008-06-03T20:40:00.269-05:00A Steampunk Robot project almost anyone can build!Anyone who has surfed the live steam videos on YouTube is familiar with the wonderfully eccentric working steampunk radio controlled machines of Crabfu. I have posted several videos of his work to this blog.<br /><br />But this device of his stood out to me because it is something almost anyone with the inclination and some modest mechanical skills could replicate. A Steam Powered Armatron!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.crabfu.com/steamtoys/steam_armatron/">Clicky!</a><br /><br />For those unfamiliar with the Armatron it was a plastic robotic arm made by the Tomy in the 80's that was sold through the Tandy Corporation's Radio Shack stores (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armatron">Wikipedia</a>). It is all mechanical and driven by a battery powered electric motor. Alas, this wonderful toy is no longer made but it was much beloved by geeks of yore (One of my coworkers has his on his desk, within range of the pencil holder). It was rather popular so working examples may still be found by dedicated scroungers.<br /><br />Crabfu's modifications to run one on steam are straightforward. The electric motor is removed, an opening is cut into the side to allow for the drive belt/chain to pass though, a sprocket/pulley is attached to the drive shaft, and a mounted stationary steam engine is harnessed to drive the mechanism.<br /><br />Given the relative simplicity of this mod I would think it possible to use a wide variety of alternative power sources, such as a Stirling engine or clockwork mechanism. Given that the Armatron is made of plastic potential power sources probably should be limited in power.<br /><br /><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/lDgs5-BQsPA&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/lDgs5-BQsPA&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="355" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br />Also of interest is Crabfu's guide to <a href="http://www.crabfu.com/steamtoys/diy_steampunk/">drawing steampunk devices</a>.<br /><br />I hope you are as inspired by his site as I have been.A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-20775035491509240812008-05-27T21:14:00.001-05:002008-05-27T21:14:01.370-05:00Are you a gnome or an elf? (Some Amplebeak FAQ's.)<i>If I had a Linden Dollar for every time I've been asked that question I would now be wealthy enough to buy out Ansche Chung. My typist offered his sympathies and offered to help in any way he could. I mulled it over and suggested that a short list of the most frequently asked questions and their answers would be most helpful. He graciously agreed to write this article for me.<br /><br /></i><b>Are you a Gnome or an Elf?<br /><br /></b>Amplebeak is both. The term Gnome was coined by the late medieval natural philosopher Paracelsus who applied the term to Earth elementals. The term may have been of earlier classical origin, possibly from the Greek words gnosis (knowledge) or genomos (earth dweller). Paracelsus saw them as the ruling class of elementals, with the greatest store of knowledge and wisdom. They were characterized as small in stature, generally helpful, intensely curious and therefore fond of learning and teaching. Over time as the term "Gnome" became more widely used the concept of what a gnome was became diluted by local folk influences, which will be addressed in other FAQ's.<br /><br />Amplebeak's people are a rare and little known subgroup of the Elves of Arda, more commonly known as Middle Earth, the history of which has been told by the famed chronicler J.R.R. Tolkien. They separated from the main population of the elves prior to the arrival of the Valar. They went Eastward where they saw the stars rise into the sky and after many centuries of travel, adventure, and hardship they came to settle in a mountainous territory that they share with a group of Durin's people (Commonly called Naugrim or Dwarves).<br /><br />Like their western kindred they do not age and die, though they may be killed by malice or misadventure. A young gnome's formal education lasts for about 100 years after which they undertake a learning quest. Most such quests are within the territory of their people, but some few are specially trained and sent far afield to learn of the greater world and its peoples. This quest often lasts for several millennia, particularly for those tasked with study abroad.<br /><br />There have never been more than a handful of questing gnomes outside of their home territory at any given time, thus they are largely unknown in the greater world. They also often travel disguised as Naugrim, as they are of similar stature. They are also of stockier build, darker skinned, and more rugged in countenance than their elven kin. Thus they are often called the "Dwarflike Ones" by Western elves, those few that know of them at any rate. Their own name for themselves translates as "The People" in English. Not an uncommon convention in tribal societies.<br /><br />The adoption of Paracelsus' term "Gnome" came about shortly ofter the sage's passing when the young gnomes then on quest in Europe (Amplebeak being one of that number) came across his writings. Being amused by his description they adopted it as the name they identified themselves with to men.<br /><br /><b>How old are you?</b><br /><br />Elves do not reckon time with the passing of years, but rather by historical epochs. The first date he remembers from the Gregorian calendar was in the Eigth Century AD, so he has been in the world of men that long. His attempts to reconcile the Gregorian with Elven calendars have been fruitless so far. To the best of his reckoning Amplebeak's age is somewhere between 1,200 and 1,500 years.<br /><br /><b>Gnomes have beards and pointy hats. You don't. How can you call yourself a gnome?<br /></b><br />The common stereotype of gnomes in modern pop culture has been shaped by the influence of many folk traditions and fables other than Paracelsus' original definition. The most common of which are the Molded clay garden figurines that originated in Germany in the middle of the 19th century, which usually have beards, pot bellies, and bright red hats. These are not elements of gnomes as originally described, nor are they common to all cultures. <br /><br />Amplebeak has been known to wear hats from time to time, his favorites being a lime green top hat given to him on his travels and Sir Edward Pearse's Steampunk Crash Helmet. He has also been known to cavort merrily while wearing a ten gallon hat after drinking too much mead. (Amp finds the notion of a Ten Gallon Hat on a Half Pint Gnome wildly amusing.)<br /><br /><b>Caledon is a Victorian community. Why don't you wear Victorian fashions?</b><br /><br />As stated above Amplebeak has been in the world of Man a bit over 1,000 years. Gnomish clothing hasn't changed significantly in design since before the race of Man existed. Thus most gnomes pay little attention to human fashion. Also Amplebeak didn't really consider human civilization advanced enough to approach humans openly* until around the Renaissance. Thus most of his ideas about human clothing was formed by his interaction with people of that time and his basic wardrobe remains basically that of an Medieval worker mixed with an Elizabethan Adventurer/Explorer. Since Gnomish styles change slowly, if at all, he was not aware until recently how outlandish he looked to his Victorian neighbors. Therefore he has made the effort recently to acquire Victorian garb. He is quite proud of his new wardrobe, so much so that I haven't the heart to tell him he looks like a colourblind gadfly who takes fashion advice from a mad parrot. As long as he's happy I'm happy for him.<br /><br /><i>* Most of Amplebeak's fellow questing gnomes still don't consider humans civilized enough to approach openly. Their loss.</i><br /><br /><b>Why don't gnomes like people?</b><br /><br />Other than their opinions on human civilization, world wars, nuclear weapons, and melted chewing gum on sidewalks? Actually gnomes are cautious of all peoples other than themselves and the Dwarves they share their homeland with. Not actually xenophobic, but for historical reasons they are very careful dealing with the other races of Earth.<br /><br />You see, the first speaking race they encountered in their journey through the Eastern lands of Middle Earth were the forefathers of the Orcs. At that early stage in history (Torward the end of what Tolkein called the First Age) the Orcs still showed much of their elven origins and the Gnomes took them to be another elvish group who had come Eastward and welcomed them. They found out to their sorrow how wrong they were. Fully two thirds of their population was killed, a loss they have never recovered from. Indeed their numbers still dwindle and they know their race is slowly coming to an end. Their birthrate isn't high enough to replace the population lost then, let alone replace those who die or are lost over the course of time.<br /><br />Amplebeak for his part is very fond of humans and even chooses to live among them. He does however prefer small gatherings to large numbers of humans although he is becoming more comfortable with the formal social gatherings so popular in Caledon. He does travel from time to time to various elven realms for a respite.<br /><br /><b>A Victorian Elf/Gnome?</b><br /><br />Fantasy beings from myth, legend, and folklore were very popular in the Victorian period. Elves particularly so, and as mentioned above the classic garden Gnome is a product of that period.<br /><br /><b>What work do you do?</b><br /><br />Amplebeak is a gardener. A natural occupation for a gnome.<br /><br /><b>Why a gnome?</b><br /><br />He was meant to be a penguin, modeled on Opus of Bloom County fame. I didn't really understand how AV's worked at the time and found making a penguin to be beyond my building abilities. So instead I played with the appearance adjustments to find out how they worked and what could be done. After many amusing permutations of my AV I finally ended up with a little chap who looked like a cross between Rumpelstiltskin and Pinocchio. <br /><br />The word "Gnome" popped to mind, and not knowing anything about gnomes I popped off to the Internet to do a bit of cultural research. I found an excellent article on Wikipedia and several other sites that I used to develop my character. One of the most interesting bits I came across were anecdotes to the effect that Tolkein had originally planned to call the High Elven Noldor "Gnomes", based on Paracelsus original description. I sat down and thought it over, then wrote up an outline of what gnomes would be (to me that is) and incorporated much of the knowledge of gnomes I had gained into it.<br /><br />It has been more than a year and a half since then and even though I could easily change my AV to a penguin I've become rather fond of the little fellow and wouldn't change him for the world. Well, not much.A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-87691894349235446042008-05-13T19:56:00.002-05:002008-05-13T20:04:40.115-05:00Abner Doble's last projecthttp://auto.howstuffworks.com/1953-paxton-phoenix-convertible-coupe.htm<br /><br />I came across this whilst researching the previous article. Apparently Robert Paxton McCulloch of chainsaw fame was a fan of steam powered automobiles and decided to design a postwar luxury marque using an engine designed by Abner Doble.<br /><br />Unfortunately development costs of the steam engine were prohibitive and a more conventional gas engine from Porsche was mounted in the prototype.<br /><br />The project was eventually abandoned as unprofitable.<br /><br />Pity. 'Twas a nice looking motorcar.A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-3623631336197678712008-05-13T19:39:00.002-05:002008-05-13T19:44:22.739-05:00Heavier than Air Steam Powered Flight?During a somewhat recent discussion inworld on the subject of aircraft<br />history and design the possibility of steam powered (and thus Steampunk)<br />aeroplanes was raised. The conversation concluded with the commonly<br />held belief that while steam power was viable for lighter than air craft<br />the power to weight ratio and complexity of operation of steam power<br />plants precluded their use in powering fixed wing aircraft.<p>This is a commonly held view, yet as is often the case with commonly<br />held views it is wrong. In 1933 two brothers named Besler built and flew<br />a conventional production model Travel Air 2000 biplane fitted out with<br />a 150 HP steam aeroengine. The Gentlemen (and possibly ladies) of the<br />press were invited and they duly recorded the following film of the event.</p><p><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/nw6NFmcnW-8&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/nw6NFmcnW-8&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="355" width="425"></embed></object></p><p>Contemporary reports made much of the silence of the engines operation<br />with many reporting they could clearly hear and understand the pilot<br />shouting to them as he flew overhead.</p><p>The engine is a modification of the designs manufactured by the Doble<br />Brothers for their automobiles. For those unfamiliar with this<br />particular Marque (very few people have heard of the Doble) the Doble<br />Brothers, led by their eldest brother Abner Doble formed several<br />companies to produce automobiles using their condensing steam engines, a<br />first for steam cars. Their cars were also noted for their efficiency<br />(both fuel and feed water), their lack of visible exhaust, their<br />reliabilty and build quality (the engines were designed and built to run<br />a million miles before needing rebuilding), and ease of use due to the high<br />level of automation in the power system.</p><p>The key to the Doble power plant was a singularly effective pressure fed<br />steam generator that was electrically ignited and could generate enough<br />steam to start off in around 30 seconds (Albeit at less than full<br />speed). The brother's goal was to produce a steam system as easy to use<br />and maintain as an internal combustion engine. They also willingly took<br />on outside consulting projects to promote the superiority of steam<br />power. Thus their role in development of the Besler engine.</p><p>Alas to the best I have been able to determine this was the only such<br />aeroplane built and flown. The War Department of the United States did<br />take an interest in the concept of Steam Planes during WW II and a 3<br />cylinder rotary engine was produced, but there are no records of it ever<br />having been mounted in a plane and test flown. Only one survives to this<br />day and is on display in Atlanta Georgia. I could not find any pictures<br />of that engine but apparently it is popular among steam enthusiasts who<br />build operating scale models. Below is a clip of one such model being<br />demonstrated. I assume with a properly designed steam generator this<br />unit could be used to power a RC model plane but I have found no<br />aethereal record of such being done.</p><p><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/UHtIZeUs8a0&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/UHtIZeUs8a0&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="355" width="425"></embed></object></p><p>The Nazi war machine also took an interest in the potential of steam<br />planes, particularly for long range heavy bombers. But all the articles I<br />have read indicate that none of their research in this area got past the<br />conceptual stages.</p><p>If anyone knows of any further information about this subject please let<br />me know. I'll gladly share it in this forum.</p><p>Your humble servant, A. Tinlegs, Gnome.</p>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-3287926763342114782008-05-12T19:53:00.000-05:002008-05-12T19:54:26.155-05:00I tried, but I couldn't resist.<object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/PCz4ZV-nRRo&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/PCz4ZV-nRRo&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-53635684044984070142008-05-12T19:41:00.004-05:002008-05-12T19:45:25.611-05:00Carrah Rossini's Steampunk DreamshipOne fine recent evening I got a call from my friend Eren Padar, Dwagon<br />Emeritus of Elf Clan and fellow tinkerer. He wished to show me a new<br />Steampunk themed vessel he had recently acquired. So I popped over to<br />the sandbox at ElvenMyst to take a look. I was mightily impressed by<br />what I saw.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0pm9PHfjKqXGZiJRmi2G_yso-rgIucHskWM2jSa9bCrGR9Ip19qL0vDZIG7YurgF9R57sa87H3O_2nVoWG_N_Ou3mBrGapyeMKyEtz6P5YSaefQmNe34DI3pfDBI86zLC4t5UHHLccMXD/s1600-h/dreamship_003.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0pm9PHfjKqXGZiJRmi2G_yso-rgIucHskWM2jSa9bCrGR9Ip19qL0vDZIG7YurgF9R57sa87H3O_2nVoWG_N_Ou3mBrGapyeMKyEtz6P5YSaefQmNe34DI3pfDBI86zLC4t5UHHLccMXD/s320/dreamship_003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199655433008347378" border="0" /></a><br />The Vessel is the Steampunk Dreamship, one of three such airships made by Carrah Rossini. There is also a submarine in the collection which Iunderstand is capable of flight as well.<p>The fit, finish, and level of detail is evident in the pictures. This<br />same level of meticulous craftsmanship was readily apparent in the build<br />of Ms. Rossini's shop and at the sky platform above where the demo<br />models of her craft may be viewed.</p><p>The quality of the build and level of detail carries over into the interior.</p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSAyd8iHvmjiNKc0ZYVTve53wic6GKyFjaRF9lgD_ReJj3FBGtle21lU4r2EmKxxjrhFptLPPOX0Oy5AVlu8CewKXn0Bh01Hno9W6-cwtK1hFqIhJlPetr-jdEm8WAyBMwPQYZVZN0YEJH/s1600-h/dreamship_002.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSAyd8iHvmjiNKc0ZYVTve53wic6GKyFjaRF9lgD_ReJj3FBGtle21lU4r2EmKxxjrhFptLPPOX0Oy5AVlu8CewKXn0Bh01Hno9W6-cwtK1hFqIhJlPetr-jdEm8WAyBMwPQYZVZN0YEJH/s320/dreamship_002.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199655974174226690" border="0" /></a></p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHvWtdBqrN8Iuw4er04yEpflhduOJRfjZdXNzmvYRlPrhaPn4a9DNcK5xa9PkPx3XOUl5_TilaY0LhAGH1k6kxR8bUOBz3RwgOOSCPwmQM6fIdC8wAFA3UGA1Cvwz6Sm5Vb2VmDoxVvsjb/s1600-h/dreamship_001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHvWtdBqrN8Iuw4er04yEpflhduOJRfjZdXNzmvYRlPrhaPn4a9DNcK5xa9PkPx3XOUl5_TilaY0LhAGH1k6kxR8bUOBz3RwgOOSCPwmQM6fIdC8wAFA3UGA1Cvwz6Sm5Vb2VmDoxVvsjb/s320/dreamship_001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199656287706839314" border="0" /></a></p><p><br /></p><p>The craft also comes with an astonishing array of extra features such as<br />an operable big screen television and radio with a remote feature that<br />allows the radio to be used in flight over shared lands.</p><p>What isn't readily apparent from the pictures and description of<br />features is how remarkably well it functions as an aircraft, something I<br />was very concerned about given its 91 prims.</p><p>I voiced my concerns to Mr. Padar who promptly offered myself and Mr.<br />Hod Runningbear a flight about ElvenMyst. Hod and I took our seats as<br />Eren took the controls and we were treated to one of the most drama free<br />and comfortable rides we had yet experienced in SL.</p><p>After we landed Eren gave me the honour of taking the controls for a<br />spin about ElvenMyst. I was even more amazed at the craft's flight as<br />pilot. The only issue encountered was a slight delay at SIM border<br />crossings, which is a common experience in vehicles this large. The only<br />nitpick I could find is that the default viewing perspective in flight<br />is too close to the AV's head for my taste, and isn't adjustable. I<br />found that using mouse view when in flight gave the best field of view<br />for me.</p><p>After my "test drive" in Eren's ship I immediately ran out and purchased<br />my own copy. Save for the inability to rez the vessel on my own land<br />(Must do some spring cleaning) my experience flying the beastie about<br />Caledon's skies has reinforced my first impression. I've noted that in<br />flight the Dreamship seems to be an attachment, as I have not<br />encountered the dreaded "Full Plot" failure whilst crossing the<br />inhabited regions of Caledon. It also seems to become a phantom as it<br />can pass through solid structures with ease. I have yet to test the<br />radio and TV in flight.</p><p>All in all an exceptional product by an exceptional builder. I am quite<br />satisfied and will happily do business with Ms. Rossini again in the<br />future. Those interested in acquiring one of their own may visit her<br />shop in Dreamfall. If interested drop me a line in world and I will<br />gladly forward you a copy of the landmark.</p><p>I have named mine "Voyageur", after the French trappers who explored<br />much of North America in the 17th and 18th centuries.</p>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-73557066742950531492008-05-12T18:24:00.001-05:002008-05-12T18:26:10.751-05:00Steampnuk CD Player.I'm supposed to be using this time to research steam aeroengines, but I'm easily distracted<br /><br /><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/N3ym3KlJ_BE&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/N3ym3KlJ_BE&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-65200652033082258862008-05-12T18:09:00.002-05:002008-05-12T18:11:52.494-05:00A Real Live Tiny Steam Tank!!!A bit small for practical use, but fun to watch!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/07PBSjExN2Y&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/07PBSjExN2Y&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-70276921224930829582008-04-09T19:58:00.002-05:002008-04-09T19:57:15.526-05:00Tiny Tanks, Part IIIt seems I am not the only one who had the idea to make a Tiny Tank.<p><a href="http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,348170,00.html">http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,348170,00.html</a></p><p><br />I was however content to make a virtual rather than a real model.</p><p>My virtual model will be on sale soon at a vendor near you. All proceeds<br />to benefit Relay For Life.</p>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-36261493109793431442008-03-14T18:07:00.004-05:002008-03-14T18:12:06.901-05:00For my tiny friends.....I'm proud to say I have many tiny friends. Therefore when it occurred<br />to me that I had not built any suitable vehicles for their use I<br />immediately set out to rectify that oversight.<br /><p>So it is with great pleasure that I introduce the Tiny Terrapin. A fast,<br />agile, armoured sportabout suitable for even the tiniest of tinys. Some<br />shorter "standard" AV's might be able to fit within its cockpit as well.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijooz33xop3eDBO7TFClNh2cCMMQtyZpPYMGc0qiqMO7XlV06Uuy9Kc-gXv9RXcRF2mlWoOe7v_qTLpOQEFQ3w1h8PeBQewqOqGTDZPf8L4HVd2eQoG2cPC4gnCVh02p1kUqgDuhlodWW-/s1600-h/tinnyterrapin_001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijooz33xop3eDBO7TFClNh2cCMMQtyZpPYMGc0qiqMO7XlV06Uuy9Kc-gXv9RXcRF2mlWoOe7v_qTLpOQEFQ3w1h8PeBQewqOqGTDZPf8L4HVd2eQoG2cPC4gnCVh02p1kUqgDuhlodWW-/s320/tinnyterrapin_001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5177738104997668850" border="0" /></a></p><p>A few advance prototype models have been distributed for evaluation and<br />testing. Refinement of the Tiny Terrapin's systems is ongoing but I<br />have high hopes that I will be able to bring it to market in a few<br />weeks, at a projected price of L$100. Proceeds of sales made during the<br />Relay For Life drive will be donated to that august and most noble<br />charity. I have other products in the development pipeline as well which<br />I will preview here, as my schedule allows.</p><p>I am having a small bit of trouble developing an automatic banana creme<br />pie loader and launching system for the cannon. If you or someone you<br />know may have ideas about the design of such a piece of equipment<br />please drop me a note in world.</p><p>Sincerely,<br />A. Tinlegs, Gnome</p>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890464662505387074.post-58783959967679817512008-03-10T19:43:00.002-05:002008-03-10T20:50:55.283-05:00Very interesting...<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMS_Hotspur">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMS_Hotspur</a><br /><a href="http://www.battleships-cruisers.co.uk/hms_hotspur.htm">1871 Ram, HMS Hotspur</a><br /><a href="http://www.battleships-cruisers.co.uk/g+h_class.htm#HMS%20Hotspur">WWII Destroyer, HMS Hotspur</a><a href="http://www.battleships-cruisers.co.uk/g+h_class.htm#HMS%20Hotspur"><br /></a><p>I wonder if O'Toole knows about these?</p><a href="http://www.battleships-cruisers.co.uk/g+h_class.htm#HMS%20Hotspur"><br /><br /></a>A. Tinlegs, Gnomehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10580199274224291126noreply@blogger.com0