WeatherBits
WeatherBits
is one of
several fictitious companies
created by Prof. David Bernstein, now a member of the
Computer Science Department at James Madison University
.
1 About the Company
For many years, weather forecasting models used grid cells that
were 5km on a side. Now, models are available that use much
smaller grid cells.
In addition, for many years, weather sensors were expensive and difficult
to operate (and maintain). Now, new computing and communications technology
makes it much easier to measure a variety of things at a wide
variety of locations, and transmit those data to a central location for
distribution and processing.
Finally, meteorology is increasingly concerned with weather
control and modification, in addition to weather monitoring and
forecasting. This includes technologies like seeding clouds, firing
lasers into storms, and distributing cryogenics in the
oceans.
WeatherBits is a committed to using these advanced models, new sensors, and
other weather-related technologies, in a variety of different innovative
products that improve people's lives.
-
SunDaze, SunScreener, and UVICast - a suite
of products that can be used to process and display
"sun safety" information, including the current UV Index (UVI) and
forecasted UVIs.
-
UnderTheWeather - a system that is used to control devices
in and around the home (e.g., thermostats, sprinklers, driveway heaters)
based on current and forecasted weather conditions.
-
WeatherBitmaps - a system that can be used to display localized
forecasts graphically.
-
WeatherCell - a system for delivering localized weather
information to cellular telephones and handheld computers in order to
improve personal and business decision-making.
-
WeatherFend - a system that uses localized weather
information to predict likely accident sites (to provide
information to in-vehicle navigation systems and
first-responders) and weather control technologies to reduce
the likelihood of accidents at these sites..
-
WeatherOrKnot - a system for using localized weather information
and weather control technologies to improve the operation of
boats and ships.
-
WeatherThouGoest - a system for incorporating localized weather
information in in-vehicle navigation systems.
2 Product Mission Statements
Product mission statements are available for the following:
3 About the Name and Logo
The word 'weatherbit' means "to take another turn with".
WeatherBits is going to take another turn
marketing weather-related products.
The logo is supposed to convey the impression of
bits of data about the weather as well as the grid cells used in
weather forecasting models.