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Project of the week Peanutbutter Jars? — Parallax Forums

Project of the week Peanutbutter Jars?

PublisonPublison Posts: 12,366
edited 2011-07-25 18:12 in General Discussion
Ok, I thought it was April first when I first saw this, but then I checked the calendar and saw it was far from that date.

It shows up on the Parallax home page:

http://www.parallax.com


Here's the "Project" :

http://forums.parallax.com/showthread.php?132716-Propeller-Brain-in-a-Jar

I don't believe this fits into a completed project at all. Stuff a breadboard with a Propeller chip in a jar, copy other people's code and schematics and call it a "Project" that does WHAT? Run other peoples code on a breadboard?

Parallax, you let me down on this one. I love what Huminoido has done for the Penguin community, but I question this sort of publicity. If a new Parallax customer was coming to the site for the first time, what would he/she think about a product in a Peanut Jar? And called a Brain to boot?
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Comments

  • Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi)Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi) Posts: 23,514
    edited 2011-07-24 16:34
    I agree: this is a very disappointing choice for Project of the Week. It cheapens the whole concept and encourages hype over substance.

    -Phil
  • PublisonPublison Posts: 12,366
    edited 2011-07-24 16:52
    Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi) wrote: »
    I agree: this is a very disappointing choice for Project of the Week. It cheapens the whole concept and encourages hype over substance.

    -Phil

    Phil,

    Thanks for the vote. I would have sent a PM, but I know you have them shut off.
  • Ron CzapalaRon Czapala Posts: 2,418
    edited 2011-07-24 17:08
    Publison wrote: »
    http://forums.parallax.com/showthread.php?132716-Propeller-Brain-in-a-Jar

    I don't believe this fits into a completed project at all. Stuff a breadboard with a Propeller chip in a jar, copy other people's code and schematics and call it a "Project" that does WHAT? Run other peoples code on a breadboard?

    I'm glad I'm not the only person who thought this made no sense.

    I also think the "Fill the Big Brain" thread does not belong in the Robotics forum.

    It belongs in a blog or even.........
  • PublisonPublison Posts: 12,366
    edited 2011-07-24 17:22
    Ron Czapala wrote: »
    I'm glad I'm not the only person who thought this made no sense.

    I also think the "Fill the Big Brain" thread does not belong in the Robotics forum.

    It belongs in a blog or even.........

    I commented in the Big Brain thread that it needed to be a blog, and I was going to reference it as it came up again, but I can't find my entry in the 60 pages of gibberish!

    I like the "or even" part. :)
  • MicrocontrolledMicrocontrolled Posts: 2,461
    edited 2011-07-24 19:23
    Documenting is key. If you document something well enough, you can get it featured on the site. The page you linked to is LOADED with Professional documentation, so even if the project is a little short of stellar, it can still make it.
    I do, however, agree with you. It should not be the Project of the Week.
  • ajwardajward Posts: 1,130
    edited 2011-07-24 19:29
    Cool... perhaps my next project can be a Prop and XBee in a sauerkraut jar! ;-)
  • Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi)Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi) Posts: 23,514
    edited 2011-07-24 19:34
    Microcontrolled wrote:
    If you document something well enough, you can get it featured on the site.
    That's definitely a problem. Form (i.e. documentation style) should follow function (i.e. substance). I hate to think that Parallax's PotW referees are so mesmerized by vignetted photos and maroon paragraph headings that they completely ignore the lack of substance in a so-called "project."

    If Parallax is concerned about attracting professional developers to the P8X32A, imagine what an impression this must leave with newcomers to their website.

    -Phil
  • Duane DegnDuane Degn Posts: 10,588
    edited 2011-07-24 19:55
    Microcontrolled wrote: »
    Documenting is key.

    I agree with Microcontrolled. I think there are many forum members who have lots of really cool projects. We (yes, I think I have some cool projects too) ought to be better at documenting our projects. This would give Parallax a larger pool to choose from for its "Project of the Week." More project posts would also let forum members see what the other members are doing. I personally like to see other peoples' projects.
    ajward wrote: »
    Cool... perhaps my next project can be a Prop and XBee in a sauerkraut jar! ;-)

    Hey, I've got a "Propeller in a Sewer Pipe" project going right now.

    BigRedButton110721a.png


    At least it's not a used "sewer pipe."
    Duane
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  • Oldbitcollector (Jeff)Oldbitcollector (Jeff) Posts: 8,091
    edited 2011-07-24 21:47
    This doesn't seem like a topic which is comfortable for public discussion, but might have been valuable as private email to Parallax.

    I enjoy most of what Huminoido puts together as he has an interesting way of looking at things and a good sense of humor to boot. Publicly discussing Parallax's decision as to whether his project deserves front page posting seems to be a good way to alienate a valuable member of this community.

    OBC
  • Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi)Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi) Posts: 23,514
    edited 2011-07-25 01:48
    Jeff,

    To whatever extent this thread could be considered a personal affront to any PotW author, you're right of course; and that should be taken into consideration when commenting here. I do believe, however, that the notion of what constitutes a candidate project (or any "project" for that matter) is grist for public discussion. In any event, it's not the project's author or even the "project" itself that's being taken to task, but rather the selection criteria for PotW. Regrettably, it required an example that did not fit what many consider to be minimum standards for inclusion for the subject to be broached in this thread. Despite any negative comments I've made elsewhere regarding the author's forum postings, nothing I've said here should be construed in that light or taken personally. And I believe that to be true of the other commenters as well.

    -Phil
  • Heater.Heater. Posts: 21,230
    edited 2011-07-25 03:25
    In the old day guys used build model ships inside bottles. By comparison dropping a circuit board into a jar seems rather trivial and lacks any mystery, like "how on earth did he do that?". Except perhaps, like so much modern art, "why on earth did he do that?"

    Having said that I have to admit to recently admiring a particular jar of olives and wondering "what interesting Prop project could I build in that jar when the olives are gone". It would need to have plenty of LEDs and perhaps make use of IR communications and solar power through the glass.

    Just day dreaming, but Humanoido and I seem to me on the same wave band here.

    A challenge then: If there were a prize (there is not) what is he most interesting Prop based gadget that you would build in a glass jar?

    Extra points go to exploiting the properties of a jar, transparency, electrical insulation, air tightness etc etc.
    Extra points if the suggestion is actually of some practical use!
  • ctwardellctwardell Posts: 1,716
    edited 2011-07-25 04:15
    Well...

    There does seem to be a lot of hand wringing over things such as:

    1) Why isn't the Prop as popular as the Arduino?

    2) If we could just have Prop 2 now.

    3) If we had GCC now.

    4) If we had more ????

    So when someone actually does something, useful or not, at least it IS a project.

    Just sayin'

    flame suit on, fire bottle in hand.

    C.W.
  • mindrobotsmindrobots Posts: 6,506
    edited 2011-07-25 05:48
    To ctwardell and Heater's points, while not the most useful or creative of the PotW, it did make me stop and think and to that extent it has spawned as much personal interest as most of the other projects. I read the PotW and usually don't want to rush out and build one but I do set it in the back of my head for the idea factory to tear apart and see what it can come away with. The jar concept does open up a lot of interesting thoughts as Heater pointed out: light permeable, RF permeable, pressure resistant, weather resistant, cheap, variable size...all interesting and desirable properties in a project enclosure. (plus you get peanut butter sandwiches as a by-product!)

    Parallax may have helped the situation by adding some text as to why they felt this was worthy or what they found most interesting. I don't think we should fault the contributor as much as the selection committee and process.
  • Spiral_72Spiral_72 Posts: 791
    edited 2011-07-25 06:37
    Ah, the project was a fun idea and interesting to see. I don't share Humanoido's passion, but it WAS interesting. Heck, Altoids tins have been used on more articles than I care to see! I don't see the problem with a PB jar.

    There is a certain class Humanoido's idea might entertain... The old school, wire-wrap and hard core EE types might not appreciate it, but someone will.... Maybe Parallax picked it for project of the week because it is creative, and might draw in a different type of EE person?

    Now Humanoido, for Rev #1, put some legs on that PB jar and a PING on the lid. You have to leave the label on. It'd be hilarious :)
  • TtailspinTtailspin Posts: 1,326
    edited 2011-07-25 07:00
    The peanutbutter jar made project of the week because it was the most complete project available that week.
    And the only project available that week...


    -Tommy
  • Ron CzapalaRon Czapala Posts: 2,418
    edited 2011-07-25 07:35
    attachment.php?attachmentid=83373

    Fill the commode.jpg
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  • PublisonPublison Posts: 12,366
    edited 2011-07-25 07:40
    LOL!! Nice one Ron. Now THAT'S a completed project!
  • mindrobotsmindrobots Posts: 6,506
    edited 2011-07-25 08:16
    @Ron: Very cool project. From a sensor standpoint, could you please go into more detail. I always find environmental awarenesss and interaction a big part of ANY microcontroller projects! :lol:
  • Ron CzapalaRon Czapala Posts: 2,418
    edited 2011-07-25 08:21
    mindrobots wrote: »
    @Ron: Very cool project. From a sensor standpoint, could you please go into more detail. I always find environmental awarenesss and interaction a big part of ANY microcontroller projects! :lol:

    I am looking for a "smell" sensor for this and similar projects.

    Hope I can flush out an appropriate device...
  • Heater.Heater. Posts: 21,230
    edited 2011-07-25 08:47
    Well, that's where the majority of my projects end up:)
    On a serious note. Recently the amount of glass I drag home from the supermarket started to bug me. Often seems to be more jar than content. Now we put glass out for recycling but does this make sense environmentally? Would it not be better to have standardized jar sizes and refill them?
  • TtailspinTtailspin Posts: 1,326
    edited 2011-07-25 08:50
    Would it not be better to have standardized jar sizes and refill them?
    Sure, if we got rid of all the blind people...


    -Tommy
  • ercoerco Posts: 20,259
    edited 2011-07-25 09:18
    Q: Did PJ Allen slit his own throat (PotW-wise) by eschewing the PB jars, and only using the LIDS as wheels in his Cypherbot?

    http://forums.parallax.com/showthread.php?131098-Cypherbot

    At least he made Hack-a-Day!
  • Ron CzapalaRon Czapala Posts: 2,418
    edited 2011-07-25 09:25
    erco wrote: »
    PJ Allen ... his Cypherbot?At least he made Hack-a-Day!

    I think that's the difference between a project that actually DOES SOMETHING and...
  • WBA ConsultingWBA Consulting Posts: 2,935
    edited 2011-07-25 10:01
    Ron, your project is missing the CH4 Methane Gas Sensor Module from Parallax................


    >start.opinion
    In regards to Project of the Week, a completed, fully documented project is not a requirement. PotW candidates are simply projects that are of interest worth sharing in some regard. If the PB-Brain was floating in mineral oil to give it the full "mad scientist" effect, I could see this project all over the net on various site that has publicized less than "complete" projects. If anything, it gets a 10 out of 10 for a novelty project in my opinion
    end.opinion<

    ps. does anyone have a suggestion for PotW for next week?
  • Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi)Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi) Posts: 23,514
    edited 2011-07-25 10:40
    If I were making PotW selections -- and I'm not -- these would be my two main criteria for evaluating a candidate project:
    1. Is this an author, project, and presentation that I'd like to see more of and, thus, encourage by providing recognition?
    2. Is this a project that I want to see representing my company's products to both professional and casual audiences?

    -Phil
  • Jen J.Jen J. Posts: 649
    edited 2011-07-25 10:53
    Hello everyone,

    So much interest in the Project of the Week, it's really wonderful. We like to feature a variety of projects on POTW. The award-winning type, the inventive type, the mind-blowing type, the artistic/theatric type and sometimes even the made-you-think type.

    Anyone can (and should) post their completed projects to the Forums. It is the first place we look for new POTWs. It is why the Forums are here. To learn and share.

    AND if you see a project on the Forums (or anywhere out there on the internets) that you believe would make a worthy POTW, please send me a direct message or e-mail our group at share@parallax.com

    Thank you.

    Cheers, Jen J.
  • PublisonPublison Posts: 12,366
    edited 2011-07-25 10:54
    Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi) wrote: »
    If I were making PotW selections -- and I'm not -- these would be my two main criteria for evaluating a candidate project:
    1. Is this an author, project, and presentation that I'd like to see more of and, thus, encourage by providing recognition?
    2. Is this a project that I want to see representing my company's products to both professional and casual audiences?

    -Phil

    My original post was trying to infer that, but you articulated it so well .
  • PublisonPublison Posts: 12,366
    edited 2011-07-25 11:32
    Jen J. wrote: »
    Hello everyone,

    So much interest in the Project of the Week, it's really wonderful. We like to feature a variety of projects on POTW. The award-winning type, the inventive type, the mind-blowing type, the artistic/theatric type and sometimes even the made-you-think type.

    Anyone can (and should) post their completed projects to the Forums. It is the first place we look for new POTWs. It is why the Forums are here. To learn and share.

    AND if you see a project on the Forums (or anywhere out there on the internets) that you believe would make a worthy POTW, please send me a direct message or e-mail our group at share@parallax.com

    Thank you.

    Cheers, Jen J.

    Thanks for the reply!

    Maybe I just assumed the POTW was pulled from "Completed Projects" that we used to have, which included full Schematic, Code, and write up.

    I guess those conditions are no longer required.

    I still want the axe back in the Avitar. :)
  • Jen J.Jen J. Posts: 649
    edited 2011-07-25 11:47
    Hi Publison,

    We naturally prefer fully documented projects (schematic, code, etc.), but really any project that might inspire or serve as a springboard to invention is considered.

    And, I'll try and find an avatar with more edge soon. ;)

    Cheers, Jen J.
  • TonyWaiteTonyWaite Posts: 219
    edited 2011-07-25 13:58
    As we've all got a vote here, I'm casting mine in *favour* of Humanoido.

    We sometimes forget that there is more than one audience out there.

    And for the most part we Techies talk only to ourselves.

    In the past I've done talks and presentations to groups of young people and civic groups and hosted exhibitions for the public. I just *know* that the 'Brain in a Peanut Jar' idea is an absolute winner for capturing the imagination.

    T o n y
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