a machine that can replicate itself. or actually, the machine can build itself after you have got the first parts together; have fun with the replicating rapid prototyper project, in short reprap

I have no need to buy a spare part for my broken vacuum cleaner when I can download one from the Web; indeed, I can download the entire vacuum cleaner. Nor do I need a shop or an Internet mail-order warehouse to supply me with these things. I just need to be able to buy standard parts and materials at the supermarket alongside my weekly groceries. |

wellwellwell, there is still a long way to go and what i have heard it's not that easy, but appears to be fun and comes to you with a gpl-licence, too.

they had a tech meeting at the beginning of august and their talks are online. also 2004 scripts are worth a look.

they are celebrating their 50th anniversary on the 4th of octubre.

By the way, if you don’t have plans for November 3rd, we are looking for volunteers. We have plenty of moving vehicles, but we are short on Pedestrians | tether, chief of drapa about the real-world autonomous vehicles urban challenge

low tech against high tech | sfgate

before i forget some addresses from the last trip through west-bohemia:

pension kladská, north of mariánské lázne. nice rooms with a view over some ponds, quiet place, perfect food and wine. the first time we visited a place twice, which means something.

near by, in tepla, they restore an old abbey. maybe worth a stay next time. for sure i wanna see that library.

some times the yellow streets in this area change into trails, but i always would give it a try. (don't talk with the driver.) 210 is pretty ok and leads through nice landscapes.

pilsen is worth a visit. from there you have an easy going street without too much traffic to germany, even on working days: e27 to most, 13 to 8 and cross the border at altenberg. if you come from passau, it's an alternative worth to consider if you are in a hurry. on the way you pass by castles, churches and reštaurácia rudolf.