π - Day


There was definitely a momentary thrill of excitement as the radio gently woke me this morning to the news that it was Pie Day. Lemon-meringue or chocolate-satin started to fight for supremacy as sleep receded. But I’d heard wrong, it was Pi Day as then the geeks came abruptly to the fore with the explanation that it was March, 14th, that is 3,14 in the curious American rendition of dates. Then questioning set in, as carrying this forward would give 3,142011, which won’t square the circle. However the solution is clear – we have to cut our celebratory pies today at 26.5 seconds after 1:59 to get us to 3,14159265 and then apologize to our mathematical friends (if we have any left) that we can’t be more precise, but it will do for engineering work.

Moving forward with engineering news, we have Terrafugia in Massachusetts soon to be delivering its roadable plane called the Transition. We will then be able to drive from our homes to a nice stretch of road, unfold our wings and fly up and away to the length of freeway next the strip mall of our choice, land and fold our wings tidily away to drive in and park. At around $200k, it’s a must have for the dedicated light aircraft fliers amongst us. If the weather turns nasty, they can land and drive the rest of the way. However, you won’t be able to do the one thing we all wish for and that is, when we are sitting in that stationary traffic jam, just open your wings and fly away, free as a bird. Next year, perhaps?

3 Responses so far.

  1. Pi Day, funny. Car plane thing kinda cool, but what is the carbon footprint.

  2. Not a hybrid so far, maybe next year.

  3. jazgal says:

    Pi Day, so close, but so disappointing, in a way, I mean, I would think that the year would have to be a part of the factor. where's the thrill with just the month and day?

    I like the car/palne idea, but don't call me until we get that verticle takeoff option!

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