11 April 2009

git-svn imports for open source projects

I've just written a lengthy open letter to github in the hope that they will support continuous centralized imports from svn to git.

If they don't wish to rise to the challenge (and I wouldn't hold it against them), I am wondering if it would be viable to run a server on fasthosts or something funded by donations that would do nothing but continuously import from svn servers, and push the result to github.

That's all for now.

mini police eye in the sky

Just a quick note on an idea that's been bothering me.

How about a mini semi autonomous police surveillance helicopter?

Would cheaper than a real helicopter, but still offers many of the advantages of having an eye in the sky that can go direct to the scene without contending with traffic etc.

Something like a electric model helicopter with 2+ blades for stability, with a petrol generator for longer run times.

Electronics and gyros to make it naturally stable, and a gps & altimeter for auto navigation.

Carrying a payload of normal and infrared cameras for information gathering.

Transmitting a live video feed over long range radio, and offering long distance control, so it could be controlled centrally by an operator.

I reckon these could be produced for a few thousand pounds each and provide excellent assistance to the force.