# Key Points from IRC Log

• Discussion of an open-source hardware repository and design tool called SKDB, described as a "kernel" for fablabs that would function like package repositories (apt-get, yum) but for hardware, allowing users to specify dependencies and navigate through products.

• Debate about database structure for open hardware projects, with one participant arguing against relational databases and SQL tables in favor of more flexible formats like YAML for distributed development.

• Technical exploration of representing component dynamics in hardware designs using linear dynamics, bond graphs, and "functional parameters" that define equations for component interfaces.

• Reference to Campbell's work on A-Design software which uses "through" and "across" variables in a data structure to model relationships between components, with equations assembled through path traversals in design graphs.

• Discussion of novel optical fiber technologies including water-core Fresnel fiber and hollow-core microstructured polymer optical fiber that can transmit in infrared wavelengths.

• Mention of a demonstration web interface for an open hardware database (at oshw.0xb5.org) that would allow editing and exporting of hardware project information.

• Consideration of how to represent mathematical models of components (like gear trains) that describe relationships between input/output positions and forces without requiring 100% automation.