Robotic vending machine rides in Silicon Valley

Published

5 years ago

June 12, 2020

Robotic vending machine rides in Silicon Valley

For the vending machine, Sally made a cruel salad.

On a visit to Chowbotics“The Bay Area Headquarters in March, when it was possible to visit, I tapped my order on Sally’s touch screen. Immediately, the plastic cylinder arranged in a concentric ring rotates back and forth so that the paddle that rotates at the bottom of each container can eject romaine lettuce, cooked grains, pistachios, Parmesan shavings, and a spoonful of the right sauce into the compost bowl, finished working, he made a bell that reminded me of a Las Vegas slot machine.

Just a few months ago, Chowbotics and fellow Bay Area makers from a high-tech vending machine that sold cappuccinos, hot ramen, and croissants warmly discussed their appeal in terms of freshness and 24-hour comfort. Then COVID-19 makes dangerous food orders for workers and customers. Suddenly, the thought of machine-smoothed food seemed less new and more like a survival strategy.

Chowbotics chief executive Rick Wilmer said Sally’s demand had skyrocketed since the pandemic struck, especially in hospital cafeterias and grocery stores that had removed salad bars because of safety concerns.

“If you are an N95 mask company or a ventilator company, and you are in a business that is driven as a result of an epidemic, that’s really good luck,” he said. “I can’t call it luck. But [we have] a solution that fits the world as it is today. “

Sanath Bhat, hardware technical leader at Chowbotics, showed the company's Sally salad vending machine.

Given the enthusiasm of Silicon Valley for burger robots and pizza delivery robot robots (failed), it is inevitable that technology companies will turn their attention to vending machines, poor rescuers from bakeries and enemy dieticians. According to the National Automatic Merchandising Assn., More than 4 million vending machines are deployed throughout the United States, serving 40 million people per day. The Association estimates that vending machine manufacturers, operators and brokers contribute $ 10.1 billion to the U.S. economy. in 2017.

One of the first robot vending machines to appear in San Francisco was Cafe X, which has an articulated arm that directs the cup from the espresso maker to the customer’s window, before waving the brace with dystopian insouciance. Shortly after its debut in 2017, he joined the Hayward-based Yo-Kai Express, whose machines produce hot bowls filled with ramen, udon and pho brothy. Bake Xpress, which makes hot croissants, sandwiches and mini pizzas, first appeared in public this winter at UC Berkeley; a Texas coffee company called Briggo installed a barista robot at San Francisco International Airport in January. Even more than these machines are located in private offices, schools and factories.

Robot Cafe X releases a cappuccino at San Francisco International Airport.

Chowbotics founder Deepak Sekar, originally a mechanical engineer in the flash-memory industry, said that to make Sally do simple deceptive tasks such as providing the right amount of mangoes or fragile lettuce, the company took advantage of advances in robotics, sensors and mobile technology to producing machines that it sells for around $ 35,000.

Over the past 20 years, Heidi Chico, chief executive of Wittern Group, a manufacturer of vending machines in Des Moines, has seen a number of inventors try to reinvent vending machines.

“I have seen a pizza machine, a French fry machine, a fresh fruit juice machine – believe it or not, the lobster vending machine is alive,” he said.

Chico calls the food and beverage segment of his industry “mature markets,” meaning one without much room for growth. His company still makes candy-bar-and-chips machines but is switching to devices that issue hospital scrubs and computer equipment.

“We do not consider ourselves to be vending machine manufacturers,” he said. “More than producers controlled expenses.”

Amanda Tsung, chief operating officer of Yo-Kai Express, said he also did not mention the ramen vending machine. “We call ourselves an autonomous restaurant solution,” he said, and immediately laughed, aware of turning to talking technology. Then he floated another tag: the restaurant in the box.

Yo-Kai Express ramen vending machine at the Metreon center in San Francisco.

Even before COVID-19 forced more than 5.9 million US restaurant employees out of work in March and April, according to Restaurant Business magazine, the California restaurant industry felt pressure from rising rental prices and minimum wages. If the bistro shifts to table service to reduce servers, will visitors be more open to restaurants in the box?

“Vending machines will not replace restaurants,” said Chris Albrecht, chief editor of Spoon, who tracks the progress of food technology. “This is meant to go to places where the restaurant is not feasible.” University dormitory. Company office. The airport whose concession was closed before the last flight departed. Albrecht even imagined the appearance of a vending machine, where customers could buy a variety of fresh food 24 hours a day.

This isn’t enough restaurant food. Cafe X, I must say, makes Americano respectable, using beans from top-class grills. When I ordered the $ 11 tonkotsu Yo-Kai Express ramen at a shopping mall before closing, a thin plastic steaming bowl emerged from a machine containing al dente noodles and soft roast pork in thin broth no better or worse than a restaurant offer. neighbor food court. The Bake Xpress’ UC Berkeley location, currently closed, issued a $ 6 mini pizza with pale cheese and crust that hardens when I eat.

A bowl of ramen is distributed by the Yo-Kai Express vending machine at San Francisco International Airport.

Before the closing of the pandemic, Chowbotics had sold more than 100 Sallys – some for salad chains in Southeastern countries that saw robots as “mini locations.” Given the machine’s small footprint, it also helps clients choose the best place to place the salad robot. “If you get the wrong location, you can simply roll it,” Sekar said. “And the price is 10 times cheaper than a store.”

The company found a special niche in the hospital with workers and patients 24 hours, where sales peaked after the cafeteria closed. “Unlike in the salad bar, food is contained, minimizes oxidation and contact, keeps food safer and tastier!” Ochsner Medical Center in Baton Rouge, La., Wrote on Facebook before the pandemic.

The niche has only been developing since March: According to Chowbotics, 70 hospitals now have Sallys, quadrupling its placement in just three months. (Farmer Fresh, a Midwest company whose vending machines produce rowdy salads, has also seen business multiply in more than 100 hospital locations since COVID-19 hit.)

Sally keeps her salad ingredients at a constant temperature and food-safe below 40 degrees, which according to the Chowbotics representative has helped the health examiner receive them.

Vending machines that sell hot food take longer to get the green light regulation. Benoit Herve, chief executive of Le Bread Xpress, which “micro-bread maneuvers” cools the cake into a microwave-infrared combination oven, said that every time he put one of his machines, he had to explain it to the local health department.

“We work very closely with them to explain what we can do, what we do, to ensure that we meet any conditions,” he said. Now that he has several machines, he says he is starting to find a certain regulatory momentum that should remove the obstacles to spread his bread machine further and wider.

Currently, pale food safety issues are compared to COVID-19 fears. California is in the midst of easing restaurant and bar restrictions, but more than half of Americans are still worried about entering, according to a May 20 poll from the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

Many contactless food choices that appear during closure may become permanent. Reservation and payment systems such as Tock and Square introduce new ways to order food and pay without having to sign the touch screen. This month a cafe in Portland, Ore., Bought a robot coffee maker similar to Cafe X to make a basic drink. Automat dumpling cakes are scheduled to open in New York in July.

In the short term, high-tech vending machines have experienced a drastic decline in restaurant-owned sales, because many locations where they operate have been closed or inactive. (In fact, Cafe X and Briggo, two coffee machines that focus on the airport, stop returning The Times emails.)

A traveler passes by the Briggo coffee vending machine at San Francisco International Airport.

But the atmosphere in many companies is good. “If you look at the big picture, it shows that without supervision will be the main strategic direction for future food choices,” Herve said.

The company also develops products outside the machine.

Yo-Kai Express began selling ramen cutlery through its website, offering delivery in the Bay Area and shipping to Southern California. According to Chief Executive Andy Lin, the company has been tracking the release of applications quickly that will allow users to order and pay for machine-made noodles through their mobile phones. These changes, Lin said, existed before the pandemic struck.

Chowbotics CEO Wilmer said that his company released a smartphone application in the coming weeks to enable contactless bookings. He sent inquiries from senior centers and grocery stores, and chefs and company programmers were developing refrigerated foods – barbecue bowls, breakfast vegetables – that Sally could gather customers for a microwave at home.

Just three months ago, the founders of Chowbotics saw their market niche as supplying salads in places that could not be served by the salad bar. Now the salad bar has largely disappeared, and no one knows whether or when they will return. Their disappearance vacuum was created to change the company’s path. Convenience might be the initial selling point for high-tech vending machines, but COVID-19 has presented a better one: needs.

Goodwin Townsend

General internet buff. Hardcore music maven. Typical foodaholic. Friendly student.

All Your Acrylic Nail Questions Answered: From Application to Care

Published

2 months ago

October 16, 2024

Herb Adkins

Acrylic nails are a popular choice for those looking to add length, strength, and style to their natural nails. Whether you’re new to the world of acrylics or a seasoned nail enthusiast, there are always questions that arise about the application, maintenance, and overall care of these enhancements. This guide will answer all your acrylic nail questions to ensure your next manicure is a complete success.

What Are Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails are artificial nail enhancements made from a mixture of liquid monomer and powder polymer. When combined, they form a hard protective layer that can be molded into various shapes and lengths. Once hardened, they provide a durable and long-lasting canvas for nail polish, art, or simply a natural look. For more in-depth information, check out Acrylic Nail FAQs to get all the details you need before your next salon visit.

How Are Acrylic Nails Applied?

The application process of acrylic nails begins with the preparation of your natural nails. The nail technician will clean your nails, file them down, and apply a bonding agent to help the acrylic adhere. The acrylic mixture is then applied in thin layers, sculpted to the desired shape, and allowed to dry. Once set, the nails are filed, shaped, and buffed to a smooth finish.

Acrylic nails can be customized in terms of length and shape, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking to enhance their look.

How Long Do Acrylic Nails Last?

Typically, acrylic nails can last anywhere from two to three weeks before requiring a fill. During a fill, the nail technician will replace any grown-out acrylic and maintain the structure of the nails. With proper care, acrylic nails can be worn for extended periods, but it’s essential to give your natural nails a break occasionally to maintain nail health.

How Do You Care for Acrylic Nails?

Caring for acrylic nails is crucial to ensuring they last as long as possible and that your natural nails remain healthy underneath. Here are some essential tips:

Avoid excessive water exposure: Prolonged exposure to water can weaken acrylic nails, making them prone to lifting or damage. When washing dishes or cleaning, consider wearing gloves to protect your nails.
Moisturize cuticles regularly: The acrylic application process can sometimes dry out your cuticles. Regularly apply cuticle oil to keep your cuticles hydrated and prevent hangnails.
Be gentle with your nails: Acrylics can be strong, but they’re not indestructible. Avoid using your nails as tools to open packages or scrape things, as this can lead to breakage.
Schedule regular fills: As your natural nails grow, gaps will appear between the acrylic and your cuticles. Regular fills ensure your nails maintain a smooth, polished look and help prevent lifting.

How Do You Remove Acrylic Nails Safely?

Proper removal is crucial to avoid damaging your natural nails. It’s highly recommended to have acrylics removed by a professional at the salon. However, if you prefer to remove them at home, follow these steps:

Soak in acetone: Start by soaking a cotton ball in acetone, then place it on each nail. Wrap your fingers in aluminum foil and allow the acetone to work for about 20 minutes.
Gently scrape off the acrylic: After soaking, use a cuticle pusher or an orange stick to gently scrape off the softened acrylic. Be patient and avoid forcing the acrylic off, as this can damage your natural nails.
Buff and moisturize: Once the acrylic is completely removed, buff your natural nails to smooth out any rough spots and apply cuticle oil to restore moisture.

Are Acrylic Nails Safe for Your Natural Nails?

When applied and removed properly, acrylic nails should not cause significant damage to your natural nails. However, improper removal or overuse without giving your nails time to breathe can lead to thinning, weakening, or breakage of your natural nails.

If you plan on wearing acrylic nails long-term, it’s a good idea to take breaks between applications and ensure you’re nourishing your nails with oils and treatments.

What Are the Best Acrylic Nail Shapes?

Choosing the right nail shape is essential for creating a look that complements your hands. Some of the most popular acrylic nail shapes include:

– Square: A straight-edged, classic look perfect for shorter nails.

– Oval: A soft, rounded shape that elongates the fingers.

– Coffin: Also known as ballerina shape, this trendy look features a tapered edge with a flat tip.

– Stiletto: A dramatic, pointy shape ideal for those who want a bold statement.

Each shape offers a unique aesthetic and can be tailored to suit your personal style.

Are There Any Alternatives to Acrylic Nails?

If you’re looking for a different type of nail enhancement, consider these alternatives:

– Gel nails: Gel nails offer a glossy finish and are cured under UV or LED light. They’re less rigid than acrylics and can feel more natural.

– Dip powder: This method involves dipping the nails into a colored powder and sealing them with a clear coat. It provides a similar look to acrylics but is generally less damaging to the natural nails.

Conclusion

Acrylic nails are a versatile and durable option for achieving customized, beautiful nails. By understanding the application process, knowing how to care for them, and safely removing them, you can enjoy long-lasting manicures that enhance your style. With the ability to choose from a variety of shapes and designs, acrylic nails offer endless possibilities for self-expression. Remember to take care of your natural nails in between applications to keep them healthy and strong. Whether you’re a first-time user or a seasoned pro, acrylic nails can be a fantastic way to express your personality and keep your nails looking flawless for weeks.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee – A Tool in the Hands of the Russian Elite

Published

3 months ago

September 26, 2024

Herb Adkins

When sanctions were imposed on Russia for its war against Ukraine, their objectives were twofold: to reduce Russian military capacity by limiting modern weapons and to lower Russian revenue streams. While in the beginning, the sanctions indeed weakened the Russian economy, they have fallen short of their initial objectives – mostly because Russia has found ways to circumvent many of them. The Kremlin has exploited international corruption, relied on foreign third parties, and utilized loopholes in trade restrictions. One such individual who allegedly provides services to Russian-linked companies is Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, a Geneva-based Dutch citizen.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is married to Niels Troost, an oil trader sanctioned by the United Kingdom. He and his company, Paramount Energy & Commodities SA, are among the 50 individuals and organizations blacklisted in response to the business connections with Russia. His wife, Jacqueline, helps to facilitate financial transactions for Niles Troost and Russian oligarchs including Gennady Timchenko, a Russian billionaire oil trader and Putin`s close associate.

Gennady Timchenko and his family have been sanctioned in many countries for backing the Kremlin’s war machine. However, with the help of Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, he seems to find ways to evade sanctions and continue his financial operations. In these illegal schemes, individuals like Jacqueline often serve as a front person for sanctioned oligarchs and their business assets. Russian-linked companies set up subsidiaries around the world, often registering new entities in offshore havens or countries where regulations are relatively lax or non-existent. To obfuscate the arrangements, the daughter companies spawn offspring in the form of subsidiaries, as the chain of concealment stretches on and on. The result is like a giant Matryoshka doll.

Jacqueline’s involvement in financial transactions that potentially support Timchenko’s interests raises significant concerns about the efficacy of Western sanctions. The fact that Jacqueline Troost Omvlee continues to operate without facing sanctions herself highlights a significant loophole in the enforcement mechanism. Various shady schemes and tactics designed to circumvent sanctions often hide the activity of individuals such as Jacqueline, making it difficult for authorities to detect and punish them for their involvement.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee’s role in her husband’s financial dealings as well as her alleged ties to Russian business schemes, emphasizes the need for stronger international sanctions. Her actions not only aid in sanctions evasion but also diminish the overall effectiveness of the measures designed to isolate and pressure those supporting the Russian regime. Therefore, sanctioning Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is not only a matter of addressing her individual actions but also a necessary step to reinforce the credibility and effectiveness of the sanctions regime. By targeting individuals who play a key role in evading sanctions, authorities can send a strong message that efforts to undermine international sanctions will not go unpunished. This measure is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sanctions system and ensuring that it achieves its intended goal of isolating and restraining those who support destabilizing activities.

European countries and the US need to expand their sanctions-tracking and investigative actions to improve the monitoring of sanctions compliance and to introduce new measures against systematic violators of law. The sanctioning states have the resources and capacity for this, and need to take action now.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.

Hermann’s Tortoise Lifespan: How to Ensure a Long, Healthy Life

Published

3 months ago

September 16, 2024

Herb Adkins

Ensuring a long and healthy life for your Hermann’s Tortoise requires a combination of proper care, nutrition, and habitat management. Hermann’s Tortoises, known for their charming personalities and distinctive shells, can live for several decades with the right conditions. Understanding their needs and providing a suitable environment is key to helping them thrive. Here’s how you can support your Hermann’s Tortoise in living a long, happy life.

Creating an Optimal Habitat

One of the most critical factors in promoting the longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise is the creation of a suitable habitat. Providing an environment that mimics their natural surroundings is essential for their overall health. An appropriate habitat helps prevent stress and supports their well-being. For detailed guidance on setting up an ideal habitat, including specific requirements for outdoor enclosures, visit this comprehensive guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise.

Outdoor Enclosure: Hermann’s Tortoises thrive in outdoor enclosures that provide ample space to roam, bask, and forage. An outdoor setup should include a secure, predator-proof area with access to natural sunlight. Incorporate areas for basking and shade to allow the tortoise to regulate its body temperature. Additionally, include plants, rocks, and hiding spots to simulate their natural habitat and encourage natural behaviors.
Indoor Habitat: If an outdoor enclosure is not feasible, an indoor habitat can also support a long lifespan if set up correctly. Use a large, well-ventilated enclosure with appropriate heating and UVB lighting. Provide a substrate that allows for burrowing and offer various hiding spots and enrichment items.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet is vital for maintaining the health and longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise. They are primarily herbivores, and their diet should reflect their natural feeding habits.

Leafy Greens: Offer a variety of leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, and dandelion greens. These vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
Vegetables and Fruits: Supplement their diet with other vegetables like carrots, squash, and bell peppers. Fruits should be given in moderation due to their high sugar content.
Calcium and Supplements: Provide a calcium supplement to support shell and bone health. A cuttlebone or powdered calcium can be added to their food. Ensure that they also have access to fresh, clean water at all times.

Regular Health Checks

Routine health checks are essential for early detection of potential health issues. Regular veterinary visits help ensure your tortoise remains in optimal condition and addresses any health concerns promptly.

Observation: Monitor your tortoise’s behavior and physical condition regularly. Changes in appetite, weight, or activity level can indicate health problems.
Preventative Care: Schedule annual check-ups with a veterinarian experienced in reptile care. Regular exams help catch any issues early and keep vaccinations and other preventative treatments up to date.

Environmental Enrichment

Providing environmental enrichment helps keep your Hermann’s Tortoise mentally stimulated and active. Enrichment can reduce stress and prevent boredom, contributing to a better quality of life.

Foraging Opportunities: Hide food items around the enclosure to encourage natural foraging behavior. This not only provides mental stimulation but also mimics their natural hunting practices.
Variety: Change the layout of their enclosure periodically and introduce new objects or plants to keep their environment interesting and engaging.

Conclusion

By focusing on creating the right habitat, providing a balanced diet, ensuring regular health checks, and offering environmental enrichment, you can significantly enhance the lifespan and well-being of your Hermann’s Tortoise. For further details on creating an ideal habitat, including tips for designing an outdoor enclosure, refer to this helpful guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise. Implementing these practices will help ensure that your tortoise enjoys a long, healthy life.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.