The AI Emotional Loop
My perspective about AI swings between slot-machine chaos, mind-blown optimism, and Black Mirror dread. I turned that back-and-forth into an infographic about living in this emotional loop.
Fresh Features at Topoprint: RoundRects, Faster 3D Prints, and Improved Mobile Use
Topoprint now supports creating relief maps as RoundRects (rounded rectangles) alongside traditional disc shapes. Backend optimizations have accelerated 3D model processing significantly: a model that once took up to 10 minutes now completes in less than three minutes, complete with a progress bar update to keep users informed. Additionally, the Topodisc Designer web app has been revamped for...
Keeping the Lights On While Innovating: Finding the Right Agile Balance
Finding the right balance between Running-the-business (RTB) and Changing-the-business (CTB) can be challenging. This post explains that if RTB tasks are kept to a minimum, Scrum can be effective. However, if those tasks increase, adopting a hybrid or Kanban system can significantly help maintain smooth workflows and achieve operational excellence.
Multi-color 3D Prints with Topoprint
This blog post outlines the process of creating multi-color 3D prints using the Bambu Lab X1 Carbon printer and the Topoprint software. I explain how to prepare multiple STL files for distinct landscape features, using OrcaSlicer for effective slicing. The final print, requiring extensive filament changes, showcases the Landwasserviadukt.
Creative Connections: "Yes, yes, and..." Meets Rubber Duck Debugging
When someone proposes an idea to you, smile and assure them that you understand (yes ...). Express your enthusiasm about it (... yes ...) with an even bigger smile. Then, offer to enhance and extend their great idea (... and ...). You can compare this creativity technique to rubber duck debugging, but always remember that you should not replace a human with an LLM.
Seeing the Bigger Picture in Small Details: Birchgletscher’s Collapse
Last week, Switzerland’s Birchgletscher collapsed and caused a major rock avalanches, altering the landscape and burying the village of Blatten. With the data of the federal Rapid Mapping service and the help of individual experts, a first open post-event elevation model was made available. I used the model to create pre- and post-event visualizations and prints at a local scale.
⤴︎ Quick tip: Cloud backup with or without tech knowledge
If you're technically inclined, consider using Borg, Vorta, and rsync.net for encrypted remote backups. If that feels a bit too complex, Arq Backup might be a simpler option for you.
Updates from Topoprint: Designer, Bridges and Print-on-Demand
Topoprint has introduced three significant updates to its service for creating 3D mini-reliefs, or Topodiscs, of Swiss locations: bridges with arches, an easy-to-use Topodisc designer and an automated printing-as-a-service option.
Personal News: My First Day at Fotokite
Today marks my first day at Fotokite, a Zurich-based company that designs and manufactures actively tethered UAVs forpublic safety and emergency response. I’ll be leading the application engineering team and am excited to help build a great company with an innovative product.
⤴︎ Quick tip: Learn to love your inner demon
Demon Dialogues is a collection of comics which serves as a Handbook for Living with Your Inner Critic
