Discussion:
Secrets of LU (again)
(too old to reply)
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-08-14 14:30:09 UTC
Permalink
A good episode about the victoria line (save some irrelevant windrush nonsense
that I skipped) with an interesting look around northumberland park depot
and the disused tunnels around finsbury park though an urban adventurer site
(can't find it atm) did a better tour of the old northern city tunnels and
IIRC a lot of the track including conductor rails was still in situ.
Recliner
2024-08-14 21:56:24 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
A good episode about the victoria line (save some irrelevant windrush nonsense
that I skipped) with an interesting look around northumberland park depot
and the disused tunnels around finsbury park though an urban adventurer site
(can't find it atm) did a better tour of the old northern city tunnels and
IIRC a lot of the track including conductor rails was still in situ.
I see there was another example of flexing long welded rails on trains.

I suspect someone could make a whole programme about Finsbury Park station,
and the various lines that serve it, now including Thameslink. The station
must be unusual in that two of the main lines serving it subsequently go
down into deep tube tunnels, plus there are two Tube lines proper. All five
of the southbound lines go under the Regent’s Canal in tunnels. There can’t
be many other Tube stations still using the original Edwardian spiral
stairs as their main access route.

It would be nice to see a programme on the preparations being made for the
new Piccadilly line trains, including rebuilding both depots and
reinstating sidings at South Harrow. I assume there will also be some
platform changes. It could include info about the new assembly plant in
Goole.
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-08-15 07:39:38 UTC
Permalink
On Wed, 14 Aug 2024 21:56:24 GMT
Post by Recliner
It would be nice to see a programme on the preparations being made for the
new Piccadilly line trains, including rebuilding both depots and
reinstating sidings at South Harrow. I assume there will also be some
platform changes. It could include info about the new assembly plant in
Goole.
I strongly suspect Geoff Marshall will be on the case with those before long
Closing 5 miles of the line for 2 weeks is bloody annoying but I presume
they're doing more than just adding sidings at cockfosters. Probably Arnos
Grove sidings will be getting an update too though there's no extra space
to lengthen the roads so they'll have their work cut out with that one.
Recliner
2024-08-15 08:04:50 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Wed, 14 Aug 2024 21:56:24 GMT
Post by Recliner
It would be nice to see a programme on the preparations being made for the
new Piccadilly line trains, including rebuilding both depots and
reinstating sidings at South Harrow. I assume there will also be some
platform changes. It could include info about the new assembly plant in
Goole.
I strongly suspect Geoff Marshall will be on the case with those before long
Yes, very likely.
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Closing 5 miles of the line for 2 weeks is bloody annoying but I presume
they're doing more than just adding sidings at cockfosters. Probably Arnos
Grove sidings will be getting an update too though there's no extra space
to lengthen the roads so they'll have their work cut out with that one.
They have to rebuild both depots (one at a time, to handle two fleets at
once) to maintain the longer, articulated trains. They basically have to
build each new depot alongside the old, then switch over. The new trains
have half a century newer technology, so much of the workshop kit may also
need replacing.

There will be a temporary period when the new fleet is being introduced,
while the whole of the old fleet is still in service, so extra sidings are
needed. The new fleet will also be larger (and could grow in the future).
Marland
2024-09-22 22:15:01 UTC
Permalink
Post by Recliner
It would be nice to see a programme on the preparations being made for the
new Piccadilly line trains, including rebuilding both depots and
reinstating sidings at South Harrow.
Getting through the series on catch up.

Noted a small amount of graffiti had already appeared on some of the new
infrastructure of the sidings. Hopefully they will beef up security
before the new trains get laid up there or they will end up a right mess
before they even enter service.

GH
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-23 07:32:27 UTC
Permalink
On 22 Sep 2024 22:15:01 GMT
Post by Marland
Post by Recliner
It would be nice to see a programme on the preparations being made for the
new Piccadilly line trains, including rebuilding both depots and
reinstating sidings at South Harrow.
Getting through the series on catch up.
Noted a small amount of graffiti had already appeared on some of the new
infrastructure of the sidings. Hopefully they will beef up security
before the new trains get laid up there or they will end up a right mess
before they even enter service.
Finally found out why they closed wood green -> cockfosters for 2 weeks.
About 40m of new track at arnos grove. They could have done that at night
so thanks TfL , don't worry about your "customers" will you.

Roland Perry
2024-08-16 08:11:39 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
A good episode about the victoria line (save some irrelevant windrush nonsense
that I skipped)
That stuff you skipped is vital social history, required to understand
the reasons for the migrants, and the subsequent ramifications (mostly
good, I think).

But perhaps you don't want to understand?
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
with an interesting look around northumberland park depot
It's consistent with earlier claims that they've "run out of secrets".
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
and the disused tunnels around finsbury park though an urban adventurer site
(can't find it atm) did a better tour of the old northern city tunnels and
IIRC a lot of the track including conductor rails was still in situ.
I've been on a semi-official tour of the tunnels at Angel, which are due
to the new platform being added; and at London Bridge where the disused
tunnels are for the C&SLR railway, whose station was directly above the
current Northern Line one. Both have the semi-mandatory disused lift
shafts too.
--
Roland Perry
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-08-16 08:30:44 UTC
Permalink
On Fri, 16 Aug 2024 09:11:39 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
A good episode about the victoria line (save some irrelevant windrush nonsense
that I skipped)
That stuff you skipped is vital social history, required to understand
the reasons for the migrants, and the subsequent ramifications (mostly
good, I think).
What good ramifications?
Post by Roland Perry
But perhaps you don't want to understand?
They came over to fill jobs that would have been taken by the men killed in
WW2. There's nothing else to say about it except by vested interests who
want to pretend it was some incredible inflection point in british history.
All it brought was crime, riots and the destruction of social cohesion
in a lot of areas but they'd never say that as it doesn't fit the narrative.
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
with an interesting look around northumberland park depot
It's consistent with earlier claims that they've "run out of secrets".
Even so, was pretty interesting.
Post by Roland Perry
I've been on a semi-official tour of the tunnels at Angel, which are due
to the new platform being added; and at London Bridge where the disused
tunnels are for the C&SLR railway, whose station was directly above the
current Northern Line one. Both have the semi-mandatory disused lift
shafts too.
I've often wondered just how strong and long lasting the caps on those shafts
are. If the building above is redeveloped and a digger falls on it or similar
will it cave in?
Roland Perry
2024-08-16 18:25:38 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Fri, 16 Aug 2024 09:11:39 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
A good episode about the victoria line (save some irrelevant windrush nonsense
that I skipped)
That stuff you skipped is vital social history, required to understand
the reasons for the migrants, and the subsequent ramifications (mostly
good, I think).
What good ramifications?
TfL not closing down for lack of staff.
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
But perhaps you don't want to understand?
They came over to fill jobs that would have been taken by the men killed in
WW2. There's nothing else to say about it except by vested interests who
want to pretend it was some incredible inflection point in british history.
All it brought was crime, riots and the destruction of social cohesion
in a lot of areas but they'd never say that as it doesn't fit the narrative.
Yada yada.
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
with an interesting look around northumberland park depot
It's consistent with earlier claims that they've "run out of secrets".
Even so, was pretty interesting.
Sure, but the show's not called "Pretty interesting bits of LU"
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
I've been on a semi-official tour of the tunnels at Angel, which are due
to the new platform being added; and at London Bridge where the disused
tunnels are for the C&SLR railway, whose station was directly above the
current Northern Line one. Both have the semi-mandatory disused lift
shafts too.
I've often wondered just how strong and long lasting the caps on those shafts
are. If the building above is redeveloped and a digger falls on it or similar
will it cave in?
Nope.
--
Roland Perry
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-08-17 08:57:05 UTC
Permalink
On Fri, 16 Aug 2024 19:25:38 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
That stuff you skipped is vital social history, required to understand
the reasons for the migrants, and the subsequent ramifications (mostly
good, I think).
What good ramifications?
TfL not closing down for lack of staff.
TfL didn't exist in 1948. Women kept London Transport running in WW2 and could
have continued to do the same after the war.
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
They came over to fill jobs that would have been taken by the men killed in
WW2. There's nothing else to say about it except by vested interests who
want to pretend it was some incredible inflection point in british history.
All it brought was crime, riots and the destruction of social cohesion
in a lot of areas but they'd never say that as it doesn't fit the narrative.
Yada yada.
The usual in depth response from someone with no counter argument.
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
with an interesting look around northumberland park depot
It's consistent with earlier claims that they've "run out of secrets".
Even so, was pretty interesting.
Sure, but the show's not called "Pretty interesting bits of LU"
Artistic license. And whats inside is secret to most people.
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
I've often wondered just how strong and long lasting the caps on those shafts
are. If the building above is redeveloped and a digger falls on it or similar
will it cave in?
Nope.
How do you know?
Roland Perry
2024-08-27 09:00:16 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Fri, 16 Aug 2024 19:25:38 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
That stuff you skipped is vital social history, required to understand
the reasons for the migrants, and the subsequent ramifications (mostly
good, I think).
What good ramifications?
TfL not closing down for lack of staff.
TfL didn't exist in 1948. Women kept London Transport running in WW2 and could
have continued to do the same after the war.
You know what I meant.
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
They came over to fill jobs that would have been taken by the men killed in
WW2. There's nothing else to say about it except by vested interests who
want to pretend it was some incredible inflection point in british history.
All it brought was crime, riots and the destruction of social cohesion
in a lot of areas but they'd never say that as it doesn't fit the narrative.
Yada yada.
The usual in depth response from someone with no counter argument.
You don't deserve more than the executive summary, because obviously
you'd ignorantly dismiss it, as usual.
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
with an interesting look around northumberland park depot
It's consistent with earlier claims that they've "run out of secrets".
Even so, was pretty interesting.
Sure, but the show's not called "Pretty interesting bits of LU"
Artistic license. And whats inside is secret to most people.
I think they've flogged that licence to death now.
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
I've often wondered just how strong and long lasting the caps on those shafts
are. If the building above is redeveloped and a digger falls on it or similar
will it cave in?
Nope.
How do you know?
Because I'm an engineer.
--
Roland Perry
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-08-27 14:18:22 UTC
Permalink
On Tue, 27 Aug 2024 10:00:16 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
The usual in depth response from someone with no counter argument.
You don't deserve more than the executive summary, because obviously
You didn't even manage that much.
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
I've often wondered just how strong and long lasting the caps on those
shafts
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
are. If the building above is redeveloped and a digger falls on it or
similar
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
will it cave in?
Nope.
How do you know?
Because I'm an engineer.
There are many types of engineer. Being good at one type doesn't make you
knowledgable about the others, though no doubt you'll tell me that you were
were a structural engineer on par with Brunel.
Roland Perry
2024-09-08 07:23:45 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Tue, 27 Aug 2024 10:00:16 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
The usual in depth response from someone with no counter argument.
You don't deserve more than the executive summary, because obviously
You didn't even manage that much.
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
I've often wondered just how strong and long lasting the caps on those
shafts
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
are. If the building above is redeveloped and a digger falls on it or
similar
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
will it cave in?
Nope.
How do you know?
Because I'm an engineer.
There are many types of engineer. Being good at one type doesn't make you
knowledgable about the others, though no doubt you'll tell me that you were
were a structural engineer on par with Brunel.
Yes, I did structural engineering, and one of the practical projects was
sufficient for me to say I could do bridges etc as well as Brunel; given
the right client, and the money. And of course a time machine to take me
back to the 1850's.

Here in the 2020's, I'm using my engineering skills more on combating
chatbots on social media.
--
Roland Perry
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-08 07:56:02 UTC
Permalink
On Sun, 8 Sep 2024 08:23:45 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
There are many types of engineer. Being good at one type doesn't make you
knowledgable about the others, though no doubt you'll tell me that you were
were a structural engineer on par with Brunel.
Yes, I did structural engineering, and one of the practical projects was
sufficient for me to say I could do bridges etc as well as Brunel; given
the right client, and the money. And of course a time machine to take me
back to the 1850's.
Your hubrus really has no limits. Is it old age or were you always like this?
Post by Roland Perry
Here in the 2020's, I'm using my engineering skills more on combating
chatbots on social media.
And which "engineering" skills would that involve then?
Roland Perry
2024-09-15 08:32:52 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Sun, 8 Sep 2024 08:23:45 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
There are many types of engineer. Being good at one type doesn't make you
knowledgable about the others, though no doubt you'll tell me that you were
were a structural engineer on par with Brunel.
Yes, I did structural engineering, and one of the practical projects was
sufficient for me to say I could do bridges etc as well as Brunel; given
the right client, and the money. And of course a time machine to take me
back to the 1850's.
Your hubrus really has no limits. Is it old age or were you always like this?
I've come to realise that I've been too modest in the past.
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Here in the 2020's, I'm using my engineering skills more on combating
chatbots on social media.
And which "engineering" skills would that involve then?
Analysing what bots post (and more importantly, what they don't).
--
Roland Perry
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-16 07:18:34 UTC
Permalink
On Sun, 15 Sep 2024 09:32:52 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Sun, 8 Sep 2024 08:23:45 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
There are many types of engineer. Being good at one type doesn't make you
knowledgable about the others, though no doubt you'll tell me that you were
were a structural engineer on par with Brunel.
Yes, I did structural engineering, and one of the practical projects was
sufficient for me to say I could do bridges etc as well as Brunel; given
the right client, and the money. And of course a time machine to take me
back to the 1850's.
Your hubrus really has no limits. Is it old age or were you always like this?
I've come to realise that I've been too modest in the past.
For most people I'd take that sort of comment as tongue in cheek but I
suspect you actually mean it.
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Here in the 2020's, I'm using my engineering skills more on combating
chatbots on social media.
And which "engineering" skills would that involve then?
Analysing what bots post (and more importantly, what they don't).
I'm not sure you know what engineering means.
Recliner
2024-09-16 07:47:55 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Sun, 15 Sep 2024 09:32:52 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Sun, 8 Sep 2024 08:23:45 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
There are many types of engineer. Being good at one type doesn't make you
knowledgable about the others, though no doubt you'll tell me that you were
were a structural engineer on par with Brunel.
Yes, I did structural engineering, and one of the practical projects was
sufficient for me to say I could do bridges etc as well as Brunel; given
the right client, and the money. And of course a time machine to take me
back to the 1850's.
Your hubrus really has no limits. Is it old age or were you always like this?
I've come to realise that I've been too modest in the past.
For most people I'd take that sort of comment as tongue in cheek but I
suspect you actually mean it.
Indeed!
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Here in the 2020's, I'm using my engineering skills more on combating
chatbots on social media.
And which "engineering" skills would that involve then?
Analysing what bots post (and more importantly, what they don't).
I'm not sure you know what engineering means.
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of this
group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
Roland Perry
2024-09-16 19:11:08 UTC
Permalink
Post by Recliner
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Sun, 15 Sep 2024 09:32:52 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Sun, 8 Sep 2024 08:23:45 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
There are many types of engineer. Being good at one type doesn't make you
knowledgable about the others, though no doubt you'll tell me that you were
were a structural engineer on par with Brunel.
Yes, I did structural engineering, and one of the practical projects was
sufficient for me to say I could do bridges etc as well as Brunel; given
the right client, and the money. And of course a time machine to take me
back to the 1850's.
Your hubrus really has no limits. Is it old age or were you always like this?
I've come to realise that I've been too modest in the past.
For most people I'd take that sort of comment as tongue in cheek but I
suspect you actually mean it.
Indeed!
Yes.
Post by Recliner
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Here in the 2020's, I'm using my engineering skills more on combating
chatbots on social media.
And which "engineering" skills would that involve then?
Analysing what bots post (and more importantly, what they don't).
I'm not sure you know what engineering means.
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of this
group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
As an engineer, who knows what engineering is (the Muttley-bot clearly
doesn't, and you seem to pleading guilty that you don't either) then I
agree that the noise - from people like you trolling me - has indeed
been reduced.

Of course, as the major noise generator yourself, it's ridiculous you
think the lower noise is because of me.

Especially as that posting of yours is a prime example!!
--
Roland Perry
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-17 07:24:38 UTC
Permalink
On Mon, 16 Sep 2024 20:11:08 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Recliner
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of this
group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
As an engineer, who knows what engineering is (the Muttley-bot clearly
What are you engineering qualifications exactly?
Post by Roland Perry
doesn't, and you seem to pleading guilty that you don't either) then I
Data anaylsis is not engineering. Its barely even mathamatical. I've had
the job title software engineer on a number of occasions but I don't even
consider programming to be engineering as its partly a suck it and see
creative art.
Clank
2024-09-17 07:47:21 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Recliner
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of this
group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
As an engineer, who knows what engineering is (the Muttley-bot clearly
What are you engineering qualifications exactly?
Oh Christ...
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-17 10:55:04 UTC
Permalink
On Tue, 17 Sep 2024 07:47:21 -0000 (UTC)
Post by Clank
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Recliner
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of this
group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
As an engineer, who knows what engineering is (the Muttley-bot clearly
What are you engineering qualifications exactly?
Oh Christ...
He probably thinks he's him too.
Roland Perry
2024-09-18 05:46:11 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Mon, 16 Sep 2024 20:11:08 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Recliner
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of this
group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
As an engineer, who knows what engineering is (the Muttley-bot clearly
What are you engineering qualifications exactly?
Academically, Cambridge MA. Professionally, 50yrs experience.
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
doesn't, and you seem to pleading guilty that you don't either) then I
Data anaylsis is not engineering. Its barely even mathamatical. I've had
the job title software engineer on a number of occasions but I don't even
consider programming to be engineering as its partly a suck it and see
creative art.
Oh deary me. I suppose you've never heard of "social engineering"
either.
--
Roland Perry
Clank
2024-09-18 07:03:55 UTC
Permalink
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Recliner
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of
this group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
As an engineer, who knows what engineering is (the Muttley-bot clearly
What are you engineering qualifications exactly?
Academically, Cambridge MA.
MIT, Harvard, or Radcliffe?

(Unless you don't mean Cambridge, Massachusetts, in which case maybe you
can educate us on what "MA" stands for...)
Recliner
2024-09-18 09:37:06 UTC
Permalink
Post by Clank
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Recliner
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of
this group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
As an engineer, who knows what engineering is (the Muttley-bot clearly
What are you engineering qualifications exactly?
Academically, Cambridge MA.
MIT, Harvard, or Radcliffe?
(Unless you don't mean Cambridge, Massachusetts, in which case maybe you
can educate us on what "MA" stands for...)
My father was an MA Cantab, but of course he only did a bachelor’s degree
(Tripos) there (in the mid 1930s, but I don’t think he had any contact with
the future spies, who mixed in different circles to hard working
engineers). He also subsequently became a Fellow of two major engineering
Institutions (and actually could have been in a third, but it was no longer
relevant to his career). So I wonder how many engineering Institutions
Roland is a fellow of?

[Before anyone asks, despite my actual master’s degree in engineering from
IC, I didn’t work in engineering long enough to become a member of any
engineering institutions. So, while I have two degrees in engineering, I
never became a professional engineer, and it would be misleading to call
myself one.]
Clank
2024-09-18 10:26:38 UTC
Permalink
Post by Recliner
Post by Clank
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Recliner
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of
this group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
As an engineer, who knows what engineering is (the Muttley-bot clearly
What are you engineering qualifications exactly?
Academically, Cambridge MA.
MIT, Harvard, or Radcliffe?
(Unless you don't mean Cambridge, Massachusetts, in which case maybe
you can educate us on what "MA" stands for...)
My father was an MA Cantab, but of course he only did a bachelor’s
degree (Tripos) there (in the mid 1930s, but I don’t think he had any
contact with the future spies, who mixed in different circles to hard
working engineers). He also subsequently became a Fellow of two major
engineering Institutions (and actually could have been in a third, but
it was no longer relevant to his career). So I wonder how many
engineering Institutions Roland is a fellow of?
[Before anyone asks, despite my actual master’s degree in engineering
from IC, I didn’t work in engineering long enough to become a member of
any engineering institutions. So, while I have two degrees in
engineering, I never became a professional engineer, and it would be
misleading to call myself one.]
IC as in Imperial? If so, as another MEng ACGI, greetings from a fellow
alumnus ;).

And, well, quite. I disagree with Muttley somewhat in that I do consider
Computing to be an engineering discipline (or at least, believe it *can*
be one, although I despair that in the reality of practice it rarely is,)
but I certainly don't think it also qualifies me to equally be an
authority on bridge design or rocket-engine manufacture. And a 'general
engineering' MA does not make you an expert on everything, it makes you an
expert on nothing...

That said, as someone who has very much been occupied in the grubby world
of 'trade', never really seen the point of accumulating letters/
memberships. I did toy with getting my CEng once upon a time, and the ACM
periodically remind me that I'm eligible for "Advanced Member Grades", but
it feels like it'd just be a way to pay higher subscriptions for the
benefit of some letters that literally nobody in my world would ever look
at (and indeed precious few would even know the meaning of.)
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-18 11:12:58 UTC
Permalink
On Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:26:38 -0000 (UTC)
Post by Clank
And, well, quite. I disagree with Muttley somewhat in that I do consider
Computing to be an engineering discipline (or at least, believe it *can*
be one, although I despair that in the reality of practice it rarely is,)
It can, but rarely is simply because of time constraints. To do proper
"engineering" on a piece of code takes a very very long time unless you
do what they did in one company I worked at - proper engineers construct a
list of operations and Mr Dev has to convert it into code - 1 line of code
per 1 operation and its then checked line by line. Made for very dull work and
the resulting code itself was pretty simple stuff.
Post by Clank
but I certainly don't think it also qualifies me to equally be an
authority on bridge design or rocket-engine manufacture. And a 'general
A point Roland doesn't seem to get.
Roland Perry
2024-09-19 16:29:10 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Clank
And, well, quite. I disagree with Muttley somewhat in that I do consider
Computing to be an engineering discipline (or at least, believe it *can*
be one, although I despair that in the reality of practice it rarely is,)
It can, but rarely is simply because of time constraints. To do proper
"engineering" on a piece of code takes a very very long time unless you
do what they did in one company I worked at - proper engineers construct a
list of operations and Mr Dev has to convert it into code - 1 line of code
per 1 operation and its then checked line by line. Made for very dull work and
the resulting code itself was pretty simple stuff.
Post by Clank
but I certainly don't think it also qualifies me to equally be an
authority on bridge design or rocket-engine manufacture. And a 'general
A point Roland doesn't seem to get.
2020 bridge design and rocket engines, I agree, although we did have a
reasonable grounding in jet engines like those used on Concorde which
were designed at the turbomachinery lab at Cambridge. My girlfriend's
dad, on the other hand, did design rocket engines in the 60's working
for whatever British Aerospace was called that week.
--
Roland Perry
Recliner
2024-09-18 11:49:42 UTC
Permalink
Post by Clank
Post by Recliner
Post by Clank
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Recliner
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of
this group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
As an engineer, who knows what engineering is (the Muttley-bot clearly
What are you engineering qualifications exactly?
Academically, Cambridge MA.
MIT, Harvard, or Radcliffe?
(Unless you don't mean Cambridge, Massachusetts, in which case maybe
you can educate us on what "MA" stands for...)
My father was an MA Cantab, but of course he only did a bachelor’s
degree (Tripos) there (in the mid 1930s, but I don’t think he had any
contact with the future spies, who mixed in different circles to hard
working engineers). He also subsequently became a Fellow of two major
engineering Institutions (and actually could have been in a third, but
it was no longer relevant to his career). So I wonder how many
engineering Institutions Roland is a fellow of?
[Before anyone asks, despite my actual master’s degree in engineering
from IC, I didn’t work in engineering long enough to become a member of
any engineering institutions. So, while I have two degrees in
engineering, I never became a professional engineer, and it would be
misleading to call myself one.]
IC as in Imperial? If so, as another MEng ACGI, greetings from a fellow
alumnus ;).
Rather than getting a free MA as in Oxon and Cantab, IC handed out a free
DIC when I did my MSc. As I recall, it was because IC was then part of
London University, so you were granted a London MSc, and IC gave out its
own qualification as well. Now that IC is a university in its own right, I
don’t know if free DICs are still awarded.
Post by Clank
And, well, quite. I disagree with Muttley somewhat in that I do consider
Computing to be an engineering discipline (or at least, believe it *can*
be one, although I despair that in the reality of practice it rarely is,)
but I certainly don't think it also qualifies me to equally be an
authority on bridge design or rocket-engine manufacture. And a 'general
engineering' MA does not make you an expert on everything, it makes you an
expert on nothing...
Absolutely, as Roland so ably and reliably demonstrates.
Post by Clank
That said, as someone who has very much been occupied in the grubby world
of 'trade', never really seen the point of accumulating letters/
memberships. I did toy with getting my CEng once upon a time, and the ACM
periodically remind me that I'm eligible for "Advanced Member Grades", but
it feels like it'd just be a way to pay higher subscriptions for the
benefit of some letters that literally nobody in my world would ever look
at (and indeed precious few would even know the meaning of.)
Yes, such qualifications wouldn’t have helped me in the slightest in my
career, so I didn’t bother.
Roland Perry
2024-09-19 16:20:30 UTC
Permalink
Post by Clank
I disagree with Muttley somewhat in that I do consider
Computing to be an engineering discipline (or at least, believe it *can*
be one, although I despair that in the reality of practice it rarely is,)
but I certainly don't think it also qualifies me to equally be an
authority on bridge design or rocket-engine manufacture. And a 'general
engineering' MA does not make you an expert on everything, it makes you an
expert on nothing...
It makes you an expert at knowing where to start on anything, and what
to read, and who to ask, to fill in the detail.

However, one of the 'general' subjects I studied was "Structures", which
is sufficient to be able to do simple things like Brunel bridges
oneself.
--
Roland Perry
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-19 18:27:23 UTC
Permalink
On Thu, 19 Sep 2024 17:20:30 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Clank
I disagree with Muttley somewhat in that I do consider
Computing to be an engineering discipline (or at least, believe it *can*
be one, although I despair that in the reality of practice it rarely is,)
but I certainly don't think it also qualifies me to equally be an
authority on bridge design or rocket-engine manufacture. And a 'general
engineering' MA does not make you an expert on everything, it makes you an
expert on nothing...
It makes you an expert at knowing where to start on anything, and what
to read, and who to ask, to fill in the detail.
However, one of the 'general' subjects I studied was "Structures", which
is sufficient to be able to do simple things like Brunel bridges
oneself.
Now put yourself back in the 19th century with only the knowledge and tools
he had at the time and lets see how well you do. Brunel wasn't regarded as
a genius for nothing.
Roland Perry
2024-09-20 19:00:59 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Thu, 19 Sep 2024 17:20:30 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Clank
I disagree with Muttley somewhat in that I do consider
Computing to be an engineering discipline (or at least, believe it *can*
be one, although I despair that in the reality of practice it rarely is,)
but I certainly don't think it also qualifies me to equally be an
authority on bridge design or rocket-engine manufacture. And a 'general
engineering' MA does not make you an expert on everything, it makes you an
expert on nothing...
It makes you an expert at knowing where to start on anything, and what
to read, and who to ask, to fill in the detail.
However, one of the 'general' subjects I studied was "Structures", which
is sufficient to be able to do simple things like Brunel bridges
oneself.
Now put yourself back in the 19th century with only the knowledge and tools
he had at the time and lets see how well you do. Brunel wasn't regarded as
a genius for nothing.
I'd have coped well.
--
Roland Perry
Marland
2024-09-20 21:56:52 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Thu, 19 Sep 2024 17:20:30 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Clank
I disagree with Muttley somewhat in that I do consider
Computing to be an engineering discipline (or at least, believe it *can*
be one, although I despair that in the reality of practice it rarely is,)
but I certainly don't think it also qualifies me to equally be an
authority on bridge design or rocket-engine manufacture. And a 'general
engineering' MA does not make you an expert on everything, it makes you an
expert on nothing...
It makes you an expert at knowing where to start on anything, and what
to read, and who to ask, to fill in the detail.
However, one of the 'general' subjects I studied was "Structures", which
is sufficient to be able to do simple things like Brunel bridges
oneself.
Now put yourself back in the 19th century with only the knowledge and tools
he had at the time and lets see how well you do. Brunel wasn't regarded as
a genius for nothing.
A genius who also lost a lot of other peoples money on some of his projects
which proved impractical or didn’t work at all. The ones that worked like
the Royal Albert Bridge have been revered to the extent the failures have
been brushed aside without considering the misery of those who lost their
savings or businesses.
There would be howls of criticism today if a project took 3 decades to
complete like his much admired Clifton Suspension Bridge that was completed
by others.
Using someone else’s invention the atmospheric railway which failed within
months wasn’t very clever. The choice to recommend the broad gauge for the
GWR is seen by many as example of his genius but arguably as the conversion
showed didn’t offer enough advantage over the Stephenson gauge to justify
its expansion. (Is HS2. going to be the same?)
His ships Great Western and Great Britain were steady evolutionary steps
that fulfilled their purpose but the Great Eastern was a step too far for
the time and Brunel built more fame on the misery of others.

GH
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-21 09:45:26 UTC
Permalink
On 20 Sep 2024 21:56:52 GMT
Post by Marland
A genius who also lost a lot of other peoples money on some of his projects
which proved impractical or didn’t work at all. The ones that worked like
Plus ca change re start-ups.
Post by Marland
Using someone else’s invention the atmospheric railway which failed within
months wasn’t very clever. The choice to recommend the broad gauge for the
GWR is seen by many as example of his genius but arguably as the conversion
showed didn’t offer enough advantage over the Stephenson gauge to justify
Broad gauge with a suitably accomodating loading gauge would have been
pretty impressive.
Post by Marland
His ships Great Western and Great Britain were steady evolutionary steps
that fulfilled their purpose but the Great Eastern was a step too far for
the time and Brunel built more fame on the misery of others.
If you say so, however you're in the minority in that belief.
Marland
2024-09-21 10:44:45 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On 20 Sep 2024 21:56:52 GMT
Post by Marland
A genius who also lost a lot of other peoples money on some of his projects
which proved impractical or didn’t work at all. The ones that worked like
Plus ca change re start-ups.
Post by Marland
Using someone else’s invention the atmospheric railway which failed within
months wasn’t very clever. The choice to recommend the broad gauge for the
GWR is seen by many as example of his genius but arguably as the conversion
showed didn’t offer enough advantage over the Stephenson gauge to justify
Broad gauge with a suitably accomodating loading gauge would have been
pretty impressive.
Indeed, but as places like Ireland and India found once you have built a
broad gauge network
to serve the main places you needed a secondary network of narrower gauge
lines to reach the smaller places where the potential traffic and geography
needed a cheaper engineering solution
or they would not have had a railway at all.
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Marland
His ships Great Western and Great Britain were steady evolutionary steps
that fulfilled their purpose but the Great Eastern was a step too far for
the time and Brunel built more fame on the misery of others.
If you say so, however you're in the minority in that belief.
Don’t get me wrong , I think he was a man of talent but also a product of
the age but history has highlighted his successes and to a large extent
forgotten his mistakes which means people hold him to a higher esteem than
perhaps they should but people don’t like their heroes criticised.
If anything I think his main talent was civil engineering rather than
mechanical.
Another thing that hardly gets mentioned were the original engines for the
GWR built to his specification that had to be replaced with ones that
worked PDQ

<https://www.classiccollectmodels.co.uk/early-broad-gauge-engines-a-gwr-disaster/>

GH
Recliner
2024-09-21 15:21:30 UTC
Permalink
Post by Marland
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On 20 Sep 2024 21:56:52 GMT
Post by Marland
A genius who also lost a lot of other peoples money on some of his projects
which proved impractical or didn’t work at all. The ones that worked like
Plus ca change re start-ups.
Post by Marland
Using someone else’s invention the atmospheric railway which failed within
months wasn’t very clever. The choice to recommend the broad gauge for the
GWR is seen by many as example of his genius but arguably as the conversion
showed didn’t offer enough advantage over the Stephenson gauge to justify
Broad gauge with a suitably accomodating loading gauge would have been
pretty impressive.
Indeed, but as places like Ireland and India found once you have built a
broad gauge network
to serve the main places you needed a secondary network of narrower gauge
lines to reach the smaller places where the potential traffic and geography
needed a cheaper engineering solution
or they would not have had a railway at all.
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Marland
His ships Great Western and Great Britain were steady evolutionary steps
that fulfilled their purpose but the Great Eastern was a step too far for
the time and Brunel built more fame on the misery of others.
If you say so, however you're in the minority in that belief.
Don’t get me wrong , I think he was a man of talent but also a product of
the age but history has highlighted his successes and to a large extent
forgotten his mistakes which means people hold him to a higher esteem than
perhaps they should but people don’t like their heroes criticised.
If anything I think his main talent was civil engineering rather than
mechanical.
Another thing that hardly gets mentioned were the original engines for the
GWR built to his specification that had to be replaced with ones that
worked PDQ
<https://www.classiccollectmodels.co.uk/early-broad-gauge-engines-a-gwr-disaster/>
Yes, despite Brunel’s almost saintly status, I’m inclined to agree with
you. Perhaps his early death meant that he was revered more than he would
have been had he lived another couple of decades?

His work is like a lot of Victorian stuff: they experimented a lot, but
most of the experiments failed and are largely forgotten. But a minority
were very good, and survive into our age. We forget that we only see the
exceptionally good Victorian stuff, not the larger number of bade or
mediocre things.
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-21 16:03:21 UTC
Permalink
On Sat, 21 Sep 2024 15:21:30 GMT
Post by Marland
Post by Marland
Another thing that hardly gets mentioned were the original engines for the
GWR built to his specification that had to be replaced with ones that
worked PDQ
<https://www.classiccollectmodels.co.uk/early-broad-gauge-engines-a-gwr-disaste
r/>
Yes, despite Brunel’s almost saintly status, I’m inclined to agree with
you. Perhaps his early death meant that he was revered more than he would
have been had he lived another couple of decades?
His work is like a lot of Victorian stuff: they experimented a lot, but
most of the experiments failed and are largely forgotten. But a minority
were very good, and survive into our age. We forget that we only see the
exceptionally good Victorian stuff, not the larger number of bade or
mediocre things.
You can say that about a lot of scientists and inventors. Dyson took years
to perfect his vacuum , ditto einstein with his theory of relativity and no
doubt lots of failures along the way. And even the geniuses get it wrong , eg
einstein didn't believe quantum theory was correct until evidence proved
otherwise.

None of that takes away their ultimate successes.
Recliner
2024-09-21 18:59:38 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Sat, 21 Sep 2024 15:21:30 GMT
Post by Marland
Post by Marland
Another thing that hardly gets mentioned were the original engines for the
GWR built to his specification that had to be replaced with ones that
worked PDQ
<https://www.classiccollectmodels.co.uk/early-broad-gauge-engines-a-gwr-disaste
r/>
Yes, despite Brunel’s almost saintly status, I’m inclined to agree with
you. Perhaps his early death meant that he was revered more than he would
have been had he lived another couple of decades?
His work is like a lot of Victorian stuff: they experimented a lot, but
most of the experiments failed and are largely forgotten. But a minority
were very good, and survive into our age. We forget that we only see the
exceptionally good Victorian stuff, not the larger number of bade or
mediocre things.
You can say that about a lot of scientists and inventors. Dyson took years
to perfect his vacuum , ditto einstein with his theory of relativity and no
doubt lots of failures along the way. And even the geniuses get it wrong , eg
einstein didn't believe quantum theory was correct until evidence proved
otherwise.
None of that takes away their ultimate successes.
The bagless vacuum cleaner was a clear Dyson success. But what about the
washing machine, electric car, robotic vacuum cleaner, and, probably, the
weird air filtering headphones?
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-22 07:59:47 UTC
Permalink
On Sat, 21 Sep 2024 18:59:38 GMT
Post by Recliner
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
You can say that about a lot of scientists and inventors. Dyson took years
to perfect his vacuum , ditto einstein with his theory of relativity and no
doubt lots of failures along the way. And even the geniuses get it wrong , eg
einstein didn't believe quantum theory was correct until evidence proved
otherwise.
None of that takes away their ultimate successes.
The bagless vacuum cleaner was a clear Dyson success. But what about the
washing machine, electric car, robotic vacuum cleaner, and, probably, the
weird air filtering headphones?
He's a one truck pony desperately scrabbling around for the next Big Thing
and coming up short. Doesn't detract from the fact that he changed vacuum
cleaners the world over.
Recliner
2024-09-22 08:21:46 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Sat, 21 Sep 2024 18:59:38 GMT
Post by Recliner
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
You can say that about a lot of scientists and inventors. Dyson took years
to perfect his vacuum , ditto einstein with his theory of relativity and no
doubt lots of failures along the way. And even the geniuses get it wrong , eg
einstein didn't believe quantum theory was correct until evidence proved
otherwise.
None of that takes away their ultimate successes.
The bagless vacuum cleaner was a clear Dyson success. But what about the
washing machine, electric car, robotic vacuum cleaner, and, probably, the
weird air filtering headphones?
He's a one truck pony desperately scrabbling around for the next Big Thing
and coming up short. Doesn't detract from the fact that he changed vacuum
cleaners the world over.
Yes, agreed, and he’s had some other, more modest, successes, such as the
over-priced airblade fans, hand driers that use fast moving rather than hot
air, and hair driers that do use hot air.

Given its skills in high speed, miniature motors, fans, batteries and air
currents, I’m surprised the company hasn’t launched a drone range.
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-22 09:04:36 UTC
Permalink
On Sun, 22 Sep 2024 08:21:46 GMT
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
He's a one truck pony desperately scrabbling around for the next Big Thing
and coming up short. Doesn't detract from the fact that he changed vacuum
cleaners the world over.
Yes, agreed, and he’s had some other, more modest, successes, such as the
over-priced airblade fans, hand driers that use fast moving rather than hot
air, and hair driers that do use hot air.
I hate his hand dryers. The slit is too narrow so you have to hold your hands
dead still not to touch the sides and filthy water collects in the U at the
bottom. They're a dreadful design that a 1st year design student could probably
have done better.
Given its skills in high speed, miniature motors, fans, batteries and air
currents, I’m surprised the company hasn’t launched a drone range.
Interesting idea. Perhaps hiring people with the appropriate radio and
vehicle control expertise however would be too expensive up front?
Recliner
2024-09-22 09:15:10 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Sun, 22 Sep 2024 08:21:46 GMT
Post by Recliner
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
He's a one truck pony desperately scrabbling around for the next Big Thing
and coming up short. Doesn't detract from the fact that he changed vacuum
cleaners the world over.
Yes, agreed, and he’s had some other, more modest, successes, such as the
over-priced airblade fans, hand driers that use fast moving rather than hot
air, and hair driers that do use hot air.
I hate his hand dryers. The slit is too narrow so you have to hold your hands
dead still not to touch the sides and filthy water collects in the U at the
bottom. They're a dreadful design that a 1st year design student could probably
have done better.
Those are the first gen ones. There have been half a dozen generations
since, including the ones built into a tap.

Loading Image...
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Recliner
Given its skills in high speed, miniature motors, fans, batteries and air
currents, I’m surprised the company hasn’t launched a drone range.
Interesting idea. Perhaps hiring people with the appropriate radio and
vehicle control expertise however would be too expensive up front?
Oh, I’m sure they must have been experimenting with them for years, but
presumably haven’t been able to come up with commercially viable
innovations (no point just copying the cheap, mass-produced Chinese ones).
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-22 09:27:51 UTC
Permalink
On Sun, 22 Sep 2024 09:15:10 GMT
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
I hate his hand dryers. The slit is too narrow so you have to hold your hands
dead still not to touch the sides and filthy water collects in the U at the
bottom. They're a dreadful design that a 1st year design student could
probably
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
have done better.
Those are the first gen ones. There have been half a dozen generations
Well those are the ones that seem to be installed the most.
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
since, including the ones built into a tap.
https://www.tradingdepot.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/5995388e54ef2954c5d4
b71e84b249c8/b/5/b544365ed9d91f79108277401f3af6f54dff8514456565705a359fa76349d2
6b.jpeg
Never seen those. Probably ultra expensive and require integrating plumbing
and electrics which is pain for no gain. Also if the fan goes wrong you'll
no doubt have to change the whole unit.
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Interesting idea. Perhaps hiring people with the appropriate radio and
vehicle control expertise however would be too expensive up front?
Oh, I’m sure they must have been experimenting with them for years, but
presumably haven’t been able to come up with commercially viable
innovations (no point just copying the cheap, mass-produced Chinese ones).
Or more likely can't come up with something that people would be prepared to
pay Dyson prices for.
Marland
2024-09-20 07:47:32 UTC
Permalink
Post by Roland Perry
However, one of the 'general' subjects I studied was "Structures", which
is sufficient to be able to do simple things like Brunel bridges
oneself.
Giving a child a large selection of Meccano gave the same result.

GH
Roland Perry
2024-09-20 11:35:06 UTC
Permalink
Post by Marland
Post by Roland Perry
However, one of the 'general' subjects I studied was "Structures", which
is sufficient to be able to do simple things like Brunel bridges
oneself.
Giving a child a large selection of Meccano gave the same result.
Yes, that would be a good start; and the University project we did began
essentially by designing (and making) ourselves some custom Meccano -
with holes only where they were needed, because that's stronger.

But also first checking the mechanical properties of the metal, its
strength under bending and tension [or if concrete its strength under
compression].

Then you don't end up significantly over-engineering the design - which
is what most Meccano models exhibit.

You got marked on the strength of the finished object (not unlike a
crane jib) but just as much the economy in use of material.
--
Roland Perry
Marland
2024-09-20 18:59:04 UTC
Permalink
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Marland
Post by Roland Perry
However, one of the 'general' subjects I studied was "Structures", which
is sufficient to be able to do simple things like Brunel bridges
oneself.
Giving a child a large selection of Meccano gave the same result.
Yes, that would be a good start; and the University project we did began
essentially by designing (and making) ourselves some custom Meccano -
with holes only where they were needed, because that's stronger.
But also first checking the mechanical properties of the metal, its
strength under bending and tension [or if concrete its strength under
compression].
Then you don't end up significantly over-engineering the design - which
is what most Meccano models exhibit.
You got marked on the strength of the finished object (not unlike a
crane jib) but just as much the economy in use of material.
Building bridges out of lengths of un cooked spaghetti had a following for
a while and exercised the grey matter a bit more than Meccano . I came
across it when a mate who liked to see his children entertained by their
own thoughts rather that some naff cartoon showed that a construction toy
that comprised a few packets of Spaghetti and some quick setting glue was
a cheap investment for a few hours of creativity on a wet afternoon. He
picked it up while studying in the US where it seems a bigger thing than
here with some serious competitions .



GH
Roland Perry
2024-09-19 15:56:36 UTC
Permalink
Post by Recliner
Post by Clank
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Recliner
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of
this group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
As an engineer, who knows what engineering is (the Muttley-bot clearly
What are you engineering qualifications exactly?
Academically, Cambridge MA.
MIT, Harvard, or Radcliffe?
(Unless you don't mean Cambridge, Massachusetts, in which case maybe you
can educate us on what "MA" stands for...)
My father was an MA Cantab, but of course he only did a bachelor’s degree
(Tripos) there (in the mid 1930s, but I don’t think he had any contact with
the future spies, who mixed in different circles to hard working
engineers). He also subsequently became a Fellow of two major engineering
Institutions (and actually could have been in a third, but it was no longer
relevant to his career). So I wonder how many engineering Institutions
Roland is a fellow of?
None, because I was too busy working, to obtain largely irrelevant (in
my industry) vanity memberships. Some friends from those days have gone
on to become FREng etc, but that's in different industries.
--
Roland Perry
Roland Perry
2024-09-19 15:49:18 UTC
Permalink
Post by Clank
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Recliner
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of
this group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
As an engineer, who knows what engineering is (the Muttley-bot clearly
What are you engineering qualifications exactly?
Academically, Cambridge MA.
MIT, Harvard, or Radcliffe?
Cambridge University, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, for the
hard-of-understanding.
Post by Clank
(Unless you don't mean Cambridge, Massachusetts, in which case maybe you
can educate us on what "MA" stands for...)
--
Roland Perry
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-18 07:22:19 UTC
Permalink
On Wed, 18 Sep 2024 06:46:11 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Mon, 16 Sep 2024 20:11:08 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Recliner
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of this
group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
As an engineer, who knows what engineering is (the Muttley-bot clearly
What are you engineering qualifications exactly?
Academically, Cambridge MA. Professionally, 50yrs experience.
I said what, not where.
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Data anaylsis is not engineering. Its barely even mathamatical. I've had
the job title software engineer on a number of occasions but I don't even
consider programming to be engineering as its partly a suck it and see
creative art.
Oh deary me. I suppose you've never heard of "social engineering"
either.
Thats no more engineering any more than political "science" is a science.
Its a pop culture phrase, nothing more.
Roland Perry
2024-09-19 16:31:46 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Wed, 18 Sep 2024 06:46:11 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Mon, 16 Sep 2024 20:11:08 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Recliner
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of this
group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
As an engineer, who knows what engineering is (the Muttley-bot clearly
What are you engineering qualifications exactly?
Academically, Cambridge MA. Professionally, 50yrs experience.
I said what, not where.
I didn't know bots were so obtuse. MA = Master of Arts (which are a
historical anomaly at Cambridge for science/engineering).
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Data anaylsis is not engineering. Its barely even mathamatical. I've had
the job title software engineer on a number of occasions but I don't even
consider programming to be engineering as its partly a suck it and see
creative art.
Oh deary me. I suppose you've never heard of "social engineering"
either.
Thats no more engineering any more than political "science" is a science.
Its a pop culture phrase, nothing more.
Your ignorance knows no bounds.
--
Roland Perry
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-19 18:30:11 UTC
Permalink
On Thu, 19 Sep 2024 17:31:46 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Wed, 18 Sep 2024 06:46:11 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Mon, 16 Sep 2024 20:11:08 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Recliner
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of this
group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
As an engineer, who knows what engineering is (the Muttley-bot clearly
What are you engineering qualifications exactly?
Academically, Cambridge MA. Professionally, 50yrs experience.
I said what, not where.
I didn't know bots were so obtuse. MA = Master of Arts (which are a
historical anomaly at Cambridge for science/engineering).
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Data anaylsis is not engineering. Its barely even mathamatical. I've had
the job title software engineer on a number of occasions but I don't even
consider programming to be engineering as its partly a suck it and see
creative art.
Oh deary me. I suppose you've never heard of "social engineering"
either.
Thats no more engineering any more than political "science" is a science.
Its a pop culture phrase, nothing more.
Your ignorance knows no bounds.
There's no such thing as political science (at best its a branch of
statistics) and social engineering is just nothing more than conning. What
next, pick pockets are extraction engineers?
Roland Perry
2024-09-20 18:58:09 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Thu, 19 Sep 2024 17:31:46 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Wed, 18 Sep 2024 06:46:11 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Mon, 16 Sep 2024 20:11:08 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by Recliner
I think we can thank Roland for greatly improving the S/N ratio of this
group (and uk.r) in recent weeks.
As an engineer, who knows what engineering is (the Muttley-bot clearly
What are you engineering qualifications exactly?
Academically, Cambridge MA. Professionally, 50yrs experience.
I said what, not where.
I didn't know bots were so obtuse. MA = Master of Arts (which are a
historical anomaly at Cambridge for science/engineering).
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Data anaylsis is not engineering. Its barely even mathamatical. I've had
the job title software engineer on a number of occasions but I don't even
consider programming to be engineering as its partly a suck it and see
creative art.
Oh deary me. I suppose you've never heard of "social engineering"
either.
Thats no more engineering any more than political "science" is a science.
Its a pop culture phrase, nothing more.
Your ignorance knows no bounds.
There's no such thing as political science (at best its a branch of
statistics) and social engineering is just nothing more than conning. What
next, pick pockets are extraction engineers?
Sorry, I don't do chatbot turd-polishing any more.
--
Roland Perry
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-21 09:43:00 UTC
Permalink
On Fri, 20 Sep 2024 19:58:09 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
There's no such thing as political science (at best its a branch of
statistics) and social engineering is just nothing more than conning. What
next, pick pockets are extraction engineers?
Sorry, I don't do chatbot turd-polishing any more.
Isn't that what you do to all of your posts?
Roland Perry
2024-09-22 07:09:06 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Fri, 20 Sep 2024 19:58:09 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
There's no such thing as political science (at best its a branch of
statistics) and social engineering is just nothing more than conning. What
next, pick pockets are extraction engineers?
Sorry, I don't do chatbot turd-polishing any more.
Isn't that what you do to all of your posts?
My original postings are handwritten by me. As are my follow-ups to
follow-ups, which I don't want to find the time to write, recently.
--
Roland Perry
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-22 08:00:24 UTC
Permalink
On Sun, 22 Sep 2024 08:09:06 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Fri, 20 Sep 2024 19:58:09 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
There's no such thing as political science (at best its a branch of
statistics) and social engineering is just nothing more than conning. What
next, pick pockets are extraction engineers?
Sorry, I don't do chatbot turd-polishing any more.
Isn't that what you do to all of your posts?
My original postings are handwritten by me. As are my follow-ups to
As opposed to what, your secretary doing it?
Recliner
2024-09-22 12:31:07 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Sun, 22 Sep 2024 08:09:06 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Fri, 20 Sep 2024 19:58:09 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
There's no such thing as political science (at best its a branch of
statistics) and social engineering is just nothing more than conning. What
next, pick pockets are extraction engineers?
Sorry, I don't do chatbot turd-polishing any more.
Isn't that what you do to all of your posts?
My original postings are handwritten by me. As are my follow-ups to
As opposed to what, your secretary doing it?
Presumably she types up the boss's handwritten draft?
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-22 15:07:40 UTC
Permalink
On Sun, 22 Sep 2024 13:31:07 +0100
Post by Recliner
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Sun, 22 Sep 2024 08:09:06 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Fri, 20 Sep 2024 19:58:09 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
There's no such thing as political science (at best its a branch of
statistics) and social engineering is just nothing more than conning. What
next, pick pockets are extraction engineers?
Sorry, I don't do chatbot turd-polishing any more.
Isn't that what you do to all of your posts?
My original postings are handwritten by me. As are my follow-ups to
As opposed to what, your secretary doing it?
Presumably she types up the boss's handwritten draft?
Handwriting sounds like a lot of effort for Roland. He probably just dictates
it while he's polishing all his engineering awards.
Roland Perry
2024-09-22 18:27:33 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Sun, 22 Sep 2024 13:31:07 +0100
Post by Recliner
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Sun, 22 Sep 2024 08:09:06 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Fri, 20 Sep 2024 19:58:09 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
There's no such thing as political science (at best its a branch of
statistics) and social engineering is just nothing more than conning. What
next, pick pockets are extraction engineers?
Sorry, I don't do chatbot turd-polishing any more.
Isn't that what you do to all of your posts?
My original postings are handwritten by me. As are my follow-ups to
As opposed to what, your secretary doing it?
Presumably she types up the boss's handwritten draft?
Handwriting sounds like a lot of effort for Roland. He probably just dictates
it while he's polishing all his engineering awards.
I spent most of the last two days writing things (sharpies and biros)
and my engineering awards don't need polishing very often.
--
Roland Perry
Roland Perry
2024-09-22 18:25:22 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Sun, 22 Sep 2024 08:09:06 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Fri, 20 Sep 2024 19:58:09 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
There's no such thing as political science (at best its a branch of
statistics) and social engineering is just nothing more than conning. What
next, pick pockets are extraction engineers?
Sorry, I don't do chatbot turd-polishing any more.
Isn't that what you do to all of your posts?
My original postings are handwritten by me. As are my follow-ups to
As opposed to what, your secretary doing it?
Certainly not a bot doing it.
--
Roland Perry
Recliner
2024-08-27 09:20:13 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
A good episode about the victoria line (save some irrelevant windrush nonsense
that I skipped) with an interesting look around northumberland park depot
and the disused tunnels around finsbury park though an urban adventurer site
(can't find it atm) did a better tour of the old northern city tunnels and
IIRC a lot of the track including conductor rails was still in situ.
You’ll be delighted to discover that the much-missed hidden tiles make a
reappearance in tonight’s episode, set in Gloucester Road station. And she
gets to experience daylight on the station roof!
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-08-27 14:20:53 UTC
Permalink
On Tue, 27 Aug 2024 09:20:13 GMT
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
A good episode about the victoria line (save some irrelevant windrush
nonsense
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
that I skipped) with an interesting look around northumberland park depot
and the disused tunnels around finsbury park though an urban adventurer site
(can't find it atm) did a better tour of the old northern city tunnels and
IIRC a lot of the track including conductor rails was still in situ.
You’ll be delighted to discover that the much-missed hidden tiles make a
reappearance in tonight’s episode, set in Gloucester Road station. And she
gets to experience daylight on the station roof!
God, sounds a thrill a minute. Guess it can sit on the PVR for a while until
I get around to it.
Peter Johnson
2024-09-04 14:39:38 UTC
Permalink
On Wed, 04 Sep 2024 12:23:44 +0100
Geoff Marshall would be good, though whether he'd want to cede content
control to someone else is another matter. But he certainly seems to have
the right contacts to get to see some interesting stuff.
Remember that his wife once worked for the museum (she seems to have left in
August 2019, moving to nearby Bow Street
Police Museum, and on to Bletchley Park last December). I don't know if
they're still together.
I didn't even realise he was married tbh. He's never referred to any partner
in any video I've watched. Wikipedia says he lives in south london and there
to bletchley park isn't really commutable so possibly they're not.
He had a thing going with Vicky when he did All the Stations. I don't
know if he married her or whether he'd been married previously.
Lew1
2024-09-04 15:23:21 UTC
Permalink
On Wed, 04 Sep 2024 15:39:38 +0100
Post by Peter Johnson
On Wed, 04 Sep 2024 12:23:44 +0100
Geoff Marshall would be good, though whether he'd want to cede content
control to someone else is another matter. But he certainly seems to have
the right contacts to get to see some interesting stuff.
Remember that his wife once worked for the museum (she seems to have left in
August 2019, moving to nearby Bow Street
Police Museum, and on to Bletchley Park last December). I don't know if
they're still together.
I didn't even realise he was married tbh. He's never referred to any partner
in any video I've watched. Wikipedia says he lives in south london and there
to bletchley park isn't really commutable so possibly they're not.
He had a thing going with Vicky when he did All the Stations. I don't
know if he married her or whether he'd been married previously.
Oh well, its happened to all of us. Not nice but you get over it.
She seems like a nice girl but often peoples public and private
persona can be very different.
They split a couple of years ago.

Lew
Recliner
2024-09-04 16:35:16 UTC
Permalink
Post by Peter Johnson
On Wed, 04 Sep 2024 12:23:44 +0100
Geoff Marshall would be good, though whether he'd want to cede content
control to someone else is another matter. But he certainly seems to have
the right contacts to get to see some interesting stuff.
Remember that his wife once worked for the museum (she seems to have left in
August 2019, moving to nearby Bow Street
Police Museum, and on to Bletchley Park last December). I don't know if
they're still together.
I didn't even realise he was married tbh. He's never referred to any partner
in any video I've watched. Wikipedia says he lives in south london and there
to bletchley park isn't really commutable so possibly they're not.
He had a thing going with Vicky when he did All the Stations. I don't
know if he married her or whether he'd been married previously.
Both. I think his first wife was American.
Roland Perry
2024-09-08 07:32:40 UTC
Permalink
Post by Peter Johnson
I didn't even realise he was married tbh. He's never referred to any partner
in any video I've watched. Wikipedia says he lives in south london and there
to bletchley park isn't really commutable so possibly they're not.
He had a thing going with Vicky when he did All the Stations. I don't
know if he married her or whether he'd been married previously.
Oh well, its happened to all of us. Not nice but you get over it.
She seems like a nice girl but often peoples public and private
persona can be very different.
Yes, but sometimes one can be in love with one [persona] and tolerate
the other. The best, of course, are either where the persona are the
same, or the partners work together to curate the public persona as a
business proposition.
--
Roland Perry
Roland Perry
2024-09-08 07:25:02 UTC
Permalink
You wouldn't think that the vast majority of drivers are male,
never mind white.
We are aren't all redneck racists, either.
--
Roland Perry
M***@dastardlyhq.com
2024-09-08 07:56:45 UTC
Permalink
On Sun, 8 Sep 2024 08:25:02 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
You wouldn't think that the vast majority of drivers are male,
never mind white.
We are aren't all redneck racists, either.
Having a problem dealing with facts again when they clash with your
ideology? Maybe go to your safe space and cuddle the therapy dog.
Roland Perry
2024-09-15 08:33:35 UTC
Permalink
Post by M***@dastardlyhq.com
On Sun, 8 Sep 2024 08:25:02 +0100
Post by Roland Perry
You wouldn't think that the vast majority of drivers are male,
never mind white.
We are aren't all redneck racists, either.
Having a problem dealing with facts again when they clash with your
ideology? Maybe go to your safe space and cuddle the therapy dog.
Good response, for a bot.
--
Roland Perry
Roland Perry
2024-09-08 07:28:13 UTC
Permalink
Geoff Marshall would be good, though whether he'd want to cede content
control to someone else is another matter. But he certainly seems to have
the right contacts to get to see some interesting stuff.
Remember that his wife once worked for the museum (she seems to have
left in August 2019, moving to nearby Bow Street Police Museum, and on
to Bletchley Park last December). I don't know if they're still together.
I didn't even realise he was married tbh. He's never referred to any partner
in any video I've watched.
I know the guy who restored their Colossus. Or does she work in the
other half of the site? Will be going back for a second visit this year,
so if I knew her name could "do lunch" or something.
--
Roland Perry
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