Power Days

[Seeking One]

As you know, every computer program can be thought of in terms of input -> processing -> output. Input is simple: date of birth entry with "30 days hath September" validation. The only question is how to get a data entry form in front of the user. Processing is trivial, one modulo division. Output is a bit tricky, how to generate a graph and display it? If the program runs on a web server, some kind of graphics library would need to be called to generate the chart image. If the graphics are generated by the client, then there needs to be a version for each type of operating system, or the use of a cross-platform library.

Thinking out loud here, maybe a Flash file would be a useful type of implementation. It could be added to any website with no server load beyond hosting and transferring the swf file, and run on any type of computer except the latest iPhone/iPad. (Their lack of Flash support is a whole other can of worms. I declare that issue is deferred to version 2.0 of the Ra Power Days Chart Drawing Utility.)

Here is an example of an open source chart component for Flash: http://www.fusioncharts.com/free/gallery/. With a component like this, a competent Flash hacker should be able to wire up the date entry to the chart display in short order. Unfortunately, I'm not a competent Flash hacker. Care to give it a shot?

I'm in step with you all the way! (including the Apple/Flash SNAFU )

I'm glad you suggested Flash, as I'm familiar with Flex (a rich framework built to run in the Flash Player), which will greatly simplify much of the functional requirements. Date validation, calculations and chart generation would all be done client side using built-in components from the Flex Framework (the charts look very similar to those that you linked to, and can be customized out the wazoo)

I've attached a quick screenshot of some sample code I threw together in 10 mins to give you an idea of how quick this is to work with.


  Flex Power Chart.JPG (Size: 20.12 KB / Downloads: 6)

So I see my next steps as (let me know if you see a different priority):

- create the form to accept and validate someones birth date
- run the math to figure which Power Day they're on (and other stats?)
- switch to a function that generates a proper sine wave graph and mark today's date on the graph

Later we could/should:

- figure out exactly where this is to be hosted and how I should embed the Flex app into a web page
- add some styling and graphics to spice things up (not my forte, but I can reach out for help)
- add some background info around what this thing does and how it could be useful (including any take aways from the zenith vs. nadir discussion)
- add an "Add to my calendar" export feature (guessing this would require a round trip to the server)
- add a feature to recall someone's last entered birth date upon their return from the same computer
- add additional chart views that might allow for cycle comparisons (to some past or future date, to another individual's birth date, ?)

Shall we take the rest of this to PM's?

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