The Lawn Mower Algorithm

While mowing the lawn the other day, I couldn't help but think about "what is the most efficient route I can take to mow my lawn".  It occurred to me that this wasn't the first time I had this thought.

As I thought about it, I decided that the most efficient route would be the one that maximizes mowing time and minimizes going over the same spots twice.  Sharp turns (especially 180 degree turns) will lead to down time.  But there is a balance there with going over the same areas more once.  Trees and landscaping make it even more interesting.

So, I think the problem is actually an interesting one but I've never remembered to look it up when I get inside...until now!

For your reading pleasure, I present to you a thorough discussion of "the lawn mower algorithm"
http://www.arduino.cc/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl?num=1218297610

If that wasn't enough, I somehow found myself on this related topic as well:
Mow your yard with lasers!

And finally, to the single image that made it all worth while: 

From http://www.niftythings.org/images/Laser-grass.png

 I love the internet.

The Ultimate TV Experience

I just saw the following from Time Warner Cable: http://www.timewarnercable.com/nynj/learn/cable/TWCableTV/TWCableTV_iPad.html

Supposedly, they will offer an iPad app which lets you browse the menu of channels without interrupting the program being shown on your main screen (i.e. the tv).  This is close, but not exactly, the user experience I've always wanted for my TV.

What I've always wanted is the ability to browse (or search) on my phone, preview the content right there, and be able to project that channel to the TV with a swiping motion.
Sort of like picture-in-picture only the second picture is actually on my device.

Anyway, this app is the closest I've seen so far, so kudos to Time Warner...I'll have to check this one out (if they ever release an Android version).