EP#384: Derivative Learning or Mathematical Consequences

The concerning news of a missing submarine near the Titanic wreck site this week sparks conversation about the implications of using a $30 Logitech gamepad for steering, the importance of regulatory bodies for deep sea exploration and why backups are essential for critical systems. We also explore the question; is an engineer a scientist? Lastly, we discuss a breakthrough in laser-based data transmission that could revolutionize internet connectivity.

Submarine Safety: Unconventional Controls and Engineering Design

• Suitability of game controllers for critical systems
• Regulatory compliance and safety standards in engineering projects
• What can we learn from this story and why backups are essential 

Engineer vs. Scientist: Perception and Practice

• Proficiency at something vs. being an expert 
• Education vs. professionally paid for your work 
• “If you wear a white lab coat in your day job, you are a scientist” 
• Inspired by u/amirouche_up’s question at r/askengineers 

Laser Internet: Overcoming Atmospheric Interference for Enhanced Connectivity

• If Stephen was in charge of this project, the first message he would send across would be “Gondor calls for aid”
• Advantages of lasers in data transmission compared to undersea fiber optic cables 
• What if you could curb a laser?

Summary/Takeaways:

• Lessons learned from the submarine incident and best practices for engineering safety
• Perspectives on the engineer-scientist debate 
• Future prospects and applications of laser-based data transmission technology

Thank you for listening to the MacroFab Engineering Podcast!  We’d love to hear what you think of the show so please tweet at us @MacroFab and join our slack channel at Macrofab dot com / slack or email us at [email protected].