# Summary of #hplusroadmap IRC Log (September 14, 2011)

* Discussion about NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) announcement, with JayDugger sharing the link http://www.nasa.gov/exploration/systems/sls/sls1.html and mentioning contacting a senator about concerns.

* Conversation about laboratory equipment, specifically Tecan liquid handling systems and their use of deionized/double distilled water as machine liquid in compression-sensitive tubes.

* Technical discussion about pipette tips, including questions about standardization of sizes, variable volume capabilities (1-10ml or 10-200μl), and the importance of tip height for automated dispensing arm positioning.

* A link to microfluidics applications was shared (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_nvv8x1r24), highlighting interest in this emerging technology.

* Brief discussion about Toyota's manufacturing approach, with a shared article about their "secret weapon" of low-cost car factories (http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2011/02/toyota%E2%80%99s-secret-weapon-low-cost-car-factories/).

* A philosophical comment about Star Trek's portrayal of death and medical technology, noting the show's lack of CPR and questioning why future medical technology wasn't depicted as more advanced.