Hardware Podcasts

298: In the Cow Case

Embedded.fm · 9 Aug 2019 · 1h 27m · Episode 298

What this episode covers

Eric Brunning, an Associate Professor of Atmospheric Sciences at Texas Tech University, and John Leeman, founder of Leeman Geophysical, discuss the reality of field science, which often relies on 'field bodges'—improvised solutions using tape, buckets, and zip ties. They recount specific failures, such as a lightning mapping instrument chain spontaneously disassembling during a balloon launch and the challenges of maintaining vintage GPS seismometers affected by the Y2K-era epoch rollover. The conversation highlights how low-budget, high-impact engineering decisions are driven by grant constraints and the need for rapid iteration in harsh environments.

Most relevant to

early-stage companies and established companies

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
Leeman Geophysical, Texas Tech University, National Severe Storms Laboratory, 3M, Home Depot, Walmart, Fitbit, Penn State, Amazon, NOAA
Products
Geostationary Lightning Mapper, V22 Osprey
Chips
Z80, Apple IIe
Also
Henny Seggerman, Erik Demaine, David Huffman

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