(Goddess) The Use Of Biometric Technology In The Car Rental Industry

October 8th, 2008 admin Posted in technology |

By Thomas Pretty

The car rental industry has rarely been renowned for its forward thinking attitude and embracement of new technology. However in the UK this is rapidly changing with the improvements in biometric technology. The reason car rental companies are so inclined to take advantage of biometric advances is because they can help to secure their assets and hence improve profitability. Biometric technology however does raise fundamental issues with privacy and data protection; hence it is understandable that many people have concerns with human rights and the protection of their own personal data. This issue goes beyond the car rental sphere, and instead enters a large number of other industries and business sectors.

Fingerprints form an important part of biometric recording and are especially important in the rental sphere. Companies now record customer’s fingerprints in order to create a biometric ID. One of the pilot schemes for this technology took place in Essex’s Stansted Airport. The scheme made it compulsory to submit an electronic thumbprint for any person who wished to hire a car. The forced nature of the scheme however led to many customers feeling besmirched and critical of why they should have to submit personal data.

Companies are quick to assert that this biometric data will only ever be used if the car is stolen; this will take the form of handing it over to the law enforcement bodies so that they can crosscheck their own files with the fingerprints taken at the hire desk. Police were quick to highlight the plaudits of the scheme, claiming that it was a response to the large numbers of thefts carried out by organised criminals.

This situation is becoming prevalent all across the United Kingdom; with many businesses stating that the data recorded is purely a fall back should a vehicle be stolen. These firms argue that the data will not be used for any other purpose, or passed to a third party. The ‘invasion of big brother’ claims are quickly discounted, instead the argument that the recording of biometric data will in fact act towards protecting identities is presented.

Naturally the reaction of customers was mixed. One startled customer at Stansted Airport felt that the staff members of the rental company were joking when they asked for a thumbprint. On finding out that they were serious this particular customer was dumfounded. The rather articulate response was that companies had no right to employ such an arbitrary and disproportionate tactic to fight car crime. However, the companies have such a right, after all it is their assets they are protecting.

One of the issues causing the encroachment of biometric recording has been the increasing numbers of false passports. This touted reason however did not hold sway with many customers; their argument being that if it is possible to board a plane with a passport, then why should an additional form of identity be needed to hire a car? In addition customers were understandably worried about how this data would be stored, seemingly if the government cannot hold personal data securely, then what chance do a car rental company have?

Whatever the arguments surrounding the implementation of biometric technologies it is certain that in the car rental industry they are here to stay. It is a case of put up or shut up for customers. These schemes however have not yet been rolled out all over the country; the success of these trials will undoubtedly give an indication not only of how biometrics will affect the rental industry, but will given an insight into how these technologies are likely to encroach on everyday life.

Travel expert Thomas Pretty looks into new technologies being utilised in the car rental industry.

Interesting Facts About Tape Measures
By Dave Southern

The tape measure has evolved into a much modern process of getting measurements. It developed from the ribbon type to the most modern digital and laser technology capable of measuring in the most accurate method.

Tape measures are similar to rulers but, the difference is that it can be folded or rolled. They are commonly used for dressmaking and tailoring. They are made up of ribbon, cloth, plastic, or metal. Tape measures consist of linear measure marking in metric and imperial units. Carpenters or construction workers also make use of tape measures made up of thin metallic ribbon that remains straight. The metallic ribbon retracts into a small convenient storage. Surveyors also utilize tape measures with a hectometer as its measuring unit.

A unique feature prevalent to most tape measures is a small diamond which is embedded every 19.2 inches. It is called black truss marking. Measuring tapes are ideal measuring tools because of its flexibility which can be used to measure even tight corners and curves. It can also be carried in a pocket because of its small size.

This measuring tool comes in different types:

Body Measuring Tape

This type of measuring tape can be used to measure circumference of the head, waist, legs and arms of the body. One of the models of this type is the Quick Medical QM2000 Measure Mate Body. It features accurate and quick measurements. Another good feature of this tool is that it can measure up to 60 inches and has automatic retracting system. In addition, measurement readings are shown on both sides of the tape. For a more accurate measurement, a 0.1 cm increment is used with this tool.

Measuring with the Measure Mate is simple. Just wrap the retracting tape around the area which you want to measure and then put the end into position. Afterwards, just push on the button and it automatically locks into position.

Adhesive Measuring Tape

This type of tape measure comes with an adhesive that allows it to be removed and positioned on almost any surface. The tape can be written with marking pens or pencil. It is 1 inch wide and 100 inches long and is colored white with black numeral markings. This is mostly used by police investigators or Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO). It is ideal in measuring blood splatter on any surface, bullet holes, or any pieces of evidence for crime scenes.

Magnetic Measuring Tape

The magnetic measuring tape is ideal for measuring metal surfaces. It is made up of vinyl material with a UV resistant red and blue ink. It is one meter long and uses standard and metric measurement system.

Laser Measuring Tape

This type of measuring device is one of the latest advancements in measuring technology. This device can be manipulated to accurately measure length, width, distance, area, and volume. Basically, it is used by interior designers, architects, and craftsmen. The great feature of this device is that it is able to measure hard to reach objects such as buildings and billboards if it is 300 feet in distance.

The TLM100 is one of the models of this kind of measuring tool. With its point and shoot technology, it can measure quickly and precisely without having a need for an assistant. Plus, it lessens the burden of having to calculate a lot of measurements. Some of the latest models include LCD display and Bluetooth technology for fast and easy data transfer.

Digital Measuring Tape

It features an LCD that displays the measurement made. Measurements can be made in inches, feet, and even fraction measurements. The measuring device automatically switches on when the tape is extended. It will turn off when the tape is retracted into its case. The measuring tape operates with the use of two LR44 batteries.

Most of the modern spring tape measures are design based on the patent by Alvin J. Fellows on July 14, 1868. The spring tape measure has existed ever since Fellows patent. It was not widely used during that time. But in 1940, it slowly emerged and supplemented in the form of the folding ruler.

Having a proper tool for measuring jobs requiring the most exact measurement is important. The slightest inaccuracy in measurements can cause a big difference and may lead to waste of time and material. This is especially true in woodworking, tailoring, and architecture. To achieve the best results, accuracy is necessary.

For more information on Tape Measures please visit our website.

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