|
Post by wheelson on Feb 18, 2021 21:36:48 GMT
My wife and I became eligible for the vaccine today, along with 1M other people over 65 in Massachusetts. The appointment system is very stupid, a first come first served web site where 1M people are competing for 108K doses, something like trying to get tickets for a popular concert. Predictably, the web site has crashed many times during the day and all locations show zero appointments available. My suggestion: let anyone who wants a vaccine register at any time in advance. Each week when the state gets its allotment of doses, pick that many people at random from the registered group and give them the opportunity to schedule an appointment. But I was not consulted. Brian Welcome to the reality show that is the covid world. Pennsylvania is ridiculous in the way it’s being handled. I’m 72 with a bunch of issues and have been eligible for a month or more. I have been on lists for weeks with no response whatsoever. I just got my second dose today by monitoring a drug store’s outside clinic extra doses that would be wasted once opened. That required me to answer the phone and be ready to go at a moment’s notice. Thankfully all ok so far, now if just works for the variants. Best, John “w”
|
|
|
Post by brianbutler on Feb 18, 2021 22:52:28 GMT
Congratulations, John. We probably shouldn't complain about a highly effective vaccine developed in less than a year. Still, it drives me nuts when a process seems specially designed to frustrate the user.
I think the vaccines will be good against the current variants. Effectiveness tends to degrade gradually over a period of time.
Brian
|
|
|
Post by wheelson on Feb 18, 2021 23:12:25 GMT
Congratulations, John. We probably shouldn't complain about a highly effective vaccine developed in less than a year. Still, it drives me nuts when a process seems specially designed to frustrate the user. I think the vaccines will be good against the current variants. Effectiveness tends to degrade gradually over a period of time. Brian If only the distribution matched the development. When a state government puts everything on a website and a map where it’s available but ISN’T. Each pharmacy responsible for own list, most refusing to add to their many month’s backlog. PA is 41st state in distribution, next door W.Va is 1st. Frustrating for all who are eligible who spend many a day trying to get on a list. No politics intended, just plain old incompetence all around. Best, John “w”
|
|
|
Post by brianbutler on Feb 19, 2021 2:46:55 GMT
After a 40 year career as a contract software engineer I can assure you many a manager has died on the cross of software development.
I thought the states should have outsourced the whole thing to something like Amazon. Their model would be almost perfect - appointments are orders, vaccine availability in multiple locations is distributed inventory, capacity is no problem. You could order in advance and be notified when a good location match is available. Every state is trying to roll their own.
Brian
|
|
|
Post by wheelson on Feb 19, 2021 3:24:44 GMT
After a 40 year career as a contract software engineer I can assure you many a manager has died on the cross of software development. I thought the states should have outsourced the whole thing to something like Amazon. Their model would be almost perfect - appointments are orders, vaccine availability in multiple locations is distributed inventory, capacity is no problem. You could order in advance and be notified when a good location match is available. Every state is trying to roll their own. Brian Good one, Brian. I spent the last half of my career as a process engineer, have to say I see no process planning here. I’m saying this while watching the rover landing on Mars. Seems like long term planning and execution can and does work if good principles are applied. One other thought: almost every little town has a pharmacy with personnel already giving flu, pneumonia, and shingles vaccinations and almost everyone is a customer. If you need additional personnel, hire them (Mrs. W is a semi-retired critical-care RN). I think that’s how West Virginia is doing it. And doing it quite well. Best, John “w”
|
|
Jem
Viscount
?
Posts: 3,390
|
Post by Jem on Feb 19, 2021 12:58:57 GMT
This is tangentially on the same topic , so bear with me.
I've tried to fact check this from more than one source - but I still struggle believe the numbers I am reading on this.
It cost 3.2 billion to plan, execute, build, design software and carry out the latest (very successful) Perseverance mission to Mars.
It cost 22.5 billion for our government to outsource the design and software implementation of our CV19 Track and Trace app. It was very unsuccessful . In fact, it sank without trace.
I'll just leave that one out there.
|
|
|
Post by brianbutler on Feb 19, 2021 13:11:31 GMT
The problem in software is that it is too easy to skip the planning and go right to implementation because there is no material cost. Nobody would try to cobble together an automatic transmission without drawings because it involves a lot of expensive casting and machining. Many software projects are more complicated than a transmission but often start out with something hacked together and then built up with minimal planning, because you can. Then they rely on customers to do the testing. Can you imagine releasing a "beta" version of an automatic transmission?
On one project I followed a set of development standards put out by the JPL (speaking of Mars). The idea was to create something very akin to final design drawings for a physical assembly, before coding begins. Unfortunately it took too long and there were not enough early software deliverables to suit project management. It also made it hard to accommodate on-the-fly design changes, another disagreeable hallmark of software development. As a result, that project devolved into a typical hack-a-rama and delivered a buggy product late, as usual.
Brian
|
|
|
Post by wheelson on Feb 19, 2021 13:46:46 GMT
The problem in software is that it is too easy to skip the planning and go right to implementation because there is no material cost. Nobody would try to cobble together an automatic transmission without drawings because it involves a lot of expensive casting and machining. Many software projects are more complicated than a transmission but often start out with something hacked together and then built up with minimal planning, because you can. Then they rely on customers to do the testing. Can you imagine releasing a "beta" version of an automatic transmission? On one project I followed a set of development standards put out by the JPL (speaking of Mars). The idea was to create something very akin to final design drawings for a physical assembly, before coding begins. Unfortunately it took too long and there were not enough early software deliverables to suit project management. It also made it hard to accommodate on-the-fly design changes, another disagreeable hallmark of software development. As a result, that project devolved into a typical hack-a-rama and delivered a buggy product late, as usual. Brian No need to fact check further, easy to draw true comparisons. I’ve been involved in projects such as you describe. One in particular I was part of a three person team designing an in-house automatic controller for huge compaction presses. After a rushed implementation corporate-wide, the other two moved on and I was left with a multi million $ mess. I had to teach myself the software and spent years debugging at our less than thrilled production plants. I see so many parallels within government where key individuals move around intentionally or otherwise and leave a patchwork quilt of a project potentially involving multi million lives. I have no answers for this, politically poorly run or privately run for massive profits. Maybe I’m just a cynical old guy who should stick to the wonderful two-wheeled world we all are so addicted to. Best, John “w”
|
|
|
Post by brianbutler on Feb 19, 2021 14:45:11 GMT
Having just now taken apart another Viscount BB, I would like to retract my statement about mechanical systems being better designed than the COVID vaccine web site.
Brian
|
|
|
Post by wheelson on Feb 19, 2021 15:21:38 GMT
Having just now taken apart another Viscount BB, I would like to retract my statement about mechanical systems being better designed than the COVID vaccine web site. Brian Lol. Fall back to my example of electro mechanical design and implementation! Bicycle history is littered with many wild and crazy ideas. The Viscount bb is only semi-horrible. I encounter many similar modern misfits at the shop. The owner blames “you engineers”, of course I respond “it’s the designers”. With respect to the Viscount bb, my #1 is outfitted with the infamous “wheelson hack”, previously documented here. #2 is tapped out to Italian threads but with Ti cups, sealed bearings, steel spindle. #3 Supa will have the “wheelson hack”. #4 early lugged Lambert is already standard threaded and will probably get a modern sealed unit. But wait, I’m just as variable and crazy as those early designers. Or were they engineers??!! Best, John “w”
|
|
Jem
Viscount
?
Posts: 3,390
|
Post by Jem on Feb 19, 2021 16:17:24 GMT
The problem in software is that it is too easy to skip the planning and go right to implementation because there is no material cost. Nobody would try to cobble together an automatic transmission without drawings because it involves a lot of expensive casting and machining. Many software projects are more complicated than a transmission but often start out with something hacked together and then built up with minimal planning, because you can. Then they rely on customers to do the testing. Can you imagine releasing a "beta" version of an automatic transmission? On one project I followed a set of development standards put out by the JPL (speaking of Mars). The idea was to create something very akin to final design drawings for a physical assembly, before coding begins. Unfortunately it took too long and there were not enough early software deliverables to suit project management. It also made it hard to accommodate on-the-fly design changes, another disagreeable hallmark of software development. As a result, that project devolved into a typical hack-a-rama and delivered a buggy product late, as usual. Brian I see so many parallels within government where key individuals move around intentionally or otherwise and leave a patchwork quilt of a project potentially involving multi million lives. I have no answers for this, politically poorly run or privately run for massive profits. Maybe I’m just a cynical old guy who should stick to the wonderful two-wheeled world we all are so addicted to. I think Admin might step in to remind me to keep off politics - apologies for my poor form. Jem
|
|
|
Post by brianbutler on Feb 19, 2021 16:23:01 GMT
I will be using the wheelson hack, Sunlite variation, on my two upcoming Viscount builds. I'm afraid of those grooved original spindles and I'm not sure the taper is right either. If anyone needs OEM Viscount spindle circlips, I have some I will give away. Send me a PM. I also have two spindles but but I believe the threads on both need chasing if you can figure out the thread specification.
Brian
|
|
|
Post by wheelson on Feb 19, 2021 17:13:36 GMT
I will be using the wheelson hack, Sunlite variation, on my two upcoming Viscount builds. I'm afraid of those grooved original spindles and I'm not sure the taper is right either. If anyone needs OEM Viscount spindle circlips, I have some I will give away. Send me a PM. I also have two spindles but but I believe the threads on both need chasing if you can figure out the thread specification. Brian The “w” hack seems to be holding up well on the blue “unknown” V. Interesting enough, I dismembered one of those early Suntour sealed bearings mountain bike units, the one with the lock rings on both cups. Lo and behold, a steel spindle with snap rings and grooves and - wait for it - a HOLLOW spindle! Never heard of one of those breaking. Best, John “wheelson”
|
|
|
Post by franco on Feb 19, 2021 22:49:25 GMT
I love this forum, even the Covid thread goes from coping with restrictions and vaccine distribution to viscount bottom brackets and hollow spindles. Keeps us going though doesn’t it. Some good news, my parents had the vaccine, they felt rough the next day but fine afterwards.
|
|
|
Post by wheelson on Feb 20, 2021 0:06:40 GMT
I love this forum, even the Covid thread goes from coping with restrictions and vaccine distribution to viscount bottom brackets and hollow spindles. Keeps us going though doesn’t it. Some good news, my parents had the vaccine, they felt rough the next day but fine afterwards. Quite the segway, indeed. Bike people are a bit out there anyway, Viscount folks perhaps a bit more. I had my second dose of Pfizer yesterday. No bad, a bit sore and lethargic, a drippy nose but way better than I expected. Most certainly better than the alternative. As far as the issue of bb’s, I suppose we can repost once a few more Lambert and Viscounts get buttoned up. And hopefully get to ride ‘em when the weather and the covid situation improves. Best, John “w”
|
|
|
Post by franco on Feb 20, 2021 0:46:25 GMT
I love this forum, even the Covid thread goes from coping with restrictions and vaccine distribution to viscount bottom brackets and hollow spindles. Keeps us going though doesn’t it. Some good news, my parents had the vaccine, they felt rough the next day but fine afterwards. Quite the segway, indeed. Bike people are a bit out there anyway, Viscount folks perhaps a bit more. I had my second dose of Pfizer yesterday. No bad, a bit sore and lethargic, a drippy nose but way better than I expected. Most certainly better than the alternative. As far as the issue of bb’s, I suppose we can repost once a few more Lambert and Viscounts get buttoned up. And hopefully get to ride ‘em when the weather and the covid situation improves. Best, John “w” Good to hear John, here’s to the future! No matter what happens in the future I will hold my time on this forum during these difficult times very fondly. We’ve kept each other’s sprits up, we’ve rebuilt bikes and solved problems most modern bike mechanics wouldn’t have a clue about. I thank you all.
|
|
|
Post by triitout on Feb 20, 2021 1:21:49 GMT
I'll second Franco on the joy of reading everyone's posts through this anxiety provoking time, especially the engineering/problem solving/technical expertise. Sadly, I'm a total hack here sticking to basic maintenance so I can just keep them on the road. Keep up the good work boys.
|
|
Jem
Viscount
?
Posts: 3,390
|
Post by Jem on Feb 20, 2021 21:49:41 GMT
I'll echo the sentiments and thoughts here. I visit the forum most days, even if only for 5 mins, and love reading the comments, conversations and solid practical and theoretical advice.
it's been somewhere to 'hang out', and it's made the lockdown a bit easier.
One thing it's made me think (as a generally anti-social kind, and one who doesn't drink much at all) , but It would be great have a meet up and beer sometime.
Jem
|
|
|
Post by wheelson on Feb 21, 2021 2:59:09 GMT
Jem, I couldn't agree more. This forum has been a most excellent place to hang out. 2020 has not been a kind year, I'm not sure 2021 is going to be much better, but I believe we have it in our own hands to make the best of it. The DFR's, whether real or virtual, the CR Weekends here in the States, and various local rides were an enjoyable way to get likeminded people together pre-covid and I believe the lockdowns have brought us even closer together. Hopefully, we'll all survive this and get on with the best things in life. Lamberts, Viscounts, and the folks who enjoy them not excluded! Best. John "w"
|
|
|
Post by franco on Feb 22, 2021 19:36:38 GMT
So, the UK now has a ‘roadmap’ out of all this. Maybe a bit ambitious but they are aiming for normality by the end of June. Could mean a non-virtual DFR this year!?
|
|
Jem
Viscount
?
Posts: 3,390
|
Post by Jem on Feb 22, 2021 20:37:57 GMT
So, the UK now has a ‘roadmap’ out of all this. Maybe a bit ambitious but they are aiming for normality by the end of June. Could mean a non-virtual DFR this year!? We can dream can't we? I'd say that if we've had both doses of vaccine and we aren't kissing , we are going to be fine
|
|
|
Post by franco on Feb 22, 2021 21:14:18 GMT
So, the UK now has a ‘roadmap’ out of all this. Maybe a bit ambitious but they are aiming for normality by the end of June. Could mean a non-virtual DFR this year!? We can dream can't we? I'd say that if we've had both does of vaccine and we aren't kissing , we are going to be fine Haha, be great if we are all clear though wouldn’t it. The delay in the second dose is the questionable thing, I’m not 50 until May so there’s a good chance I won’t be clear by then. Ive got my virtual scenic route planned just in case
|
|
|
Post by whippet on Feb 25, 2021 7:21:31 GMT
We have to do a DFR this year.
|
|
|
Post by brianbutler on Feb 25, 2021 18:44:26 GMT
Moderna vaccinations scheduled for tomorrow (Feb 26) and Mar 26. Yeehaw. Vaccinations knock me for a loop but I don't care.
Brian
|
|
|
Post by wheelson on Feb 25, 2021 20:34:38 GMT
Moderna vaccinations scheduled for tomorrow (Feb 26) and Mar 26. Yeehaw. Vaccinations knock me for a loop but I don't care. Brian Congrats on maneuvering through the maze! Good luck with your response and return to some semblance of normalcy. Best, John “wheelson”
|
|
|
Post by oldroadietehachapi on Feb 26, 2021 4:47:59 GMT
My wife and I are supposed to get our vaccinations tomorrow. We could not get them locally but were able to get appointments 40 miles away. Lets hope it works.
Jim
|
|
|
Post by wheelson on Feb 26, 2021 12:17:11 GMT
My wife and I are supposed to get our vaccinations tomorrow. We could not get them locally but were able to get appointments 40 miles away. Lets hope it works. Jim Great news! Best of luck to you, Jim. It’ll be great when we’re all done with this mess and can all just get on with the things we love and enjoy. Best, John “wheelson”
|
|
|
Post by franco on Feb 26, 2021 13:06:35 GMT
I hope all goes well Brian and Jim!
|
|
|
Post by cusqueno on Feb 26, 2021 15:00:53 GMT
I had my first vaccine two days ago tomorrow (13 Feb). It was the Pfizer one and I had no ill effects to speak of - just a bit of tenderness for a day or two in my arm. Hope it's as trouble free for all of you.
|
|
|
Post by oldroadietehachapi on Feb 26, 2021 15:37:23 GMT
Wherever (or to whomever) our governor speaks, he passes out additional Covid Vaccine; I hate seeing the vaccine being treated like political candy. But I can't complain too much as being a Kern County resident, I am now able to Get my vaccination. Is this sort of thing happening elsewhere?
Be Safe Jim
|
|