Social media platform Reddit experienced an outage this afternoon at around 12:20 p.m. PT (or possibly even earlier), resulting in thousands of users being unable to access its website and app. After four hours, it appears to be working again. Reddit confirmed it fixed the issue and is monitoring the results, according to its status page.We discovered the outage ourselves when attempting to visit the homepage, which displayed a black screen with the message: Upstream connect error or disconnect/reset before headers. Reset reason: connection failure. On the iOS app, we only saw the dead Snoo head, Reddits alien mascot.Over 47,000 users reported problems on Downdetector.com and many users took to X to voice their complaints, sharing images of the same connection error page that we encountered.TechCrunch has reached out to the company for comment.

Cloud giant Snowflake has agreed to acquire Datavolo, a data pipeline management company, for an undisclosed sum.Snowflake unveiled the deal at the close of the market bell on Wednesday, when it also announced its Q3 2025 earnings. The purchase hasnt yet closed, and its subject to customary closing conditions, Snowflake noted in a release.Joseph Witt and Luke Roquet, who met while working together at Hortonworks, founded Datavolo in 2023. Witt was previously CVP at Cloudera, while Roquet was Clouderas CMO and, before that, a business development executive at AWS.Datavolo uses Apache NiFi, an open source project for data processing developed by the NSA, to power a platform for automating data flows between various enterprise data sources. Data processors extract, clean, transform, and enrich data, including for generative AI use cases.With Datavolo, which managed to raise $21 million in venture capital from investors including Citi Ventures and General Catalyst prior to the acquisition, Snowflake CEO Sridhar Ramaswamy envisions creating more versatile data processing pipelines for Snowflake customers. For example, he says, Datavolo might enable users to replace single-use data connectors with flexible pipelines that let them move data from cloud and on-premise sources to Snowflakes data cloud.By bringing Datavolo into the Snowflake fold, we are expanding how much of the data lifecycle Snowflake captures unlocking both simplicity and cost savings for our customers, without any sacrifice to data extensibility, Ramaswamy said in a statement. We are excited to have the Datavolo team join Snowflake as we accelerate what is the best platform for enterprise data unstructured and structured, batch and streaming and dedicated to the success of the open source community.Witt says that Snowflake will support and help to manage the Apache NiFi project following the close of the acquisition. Data engineering at scale can be incredibly costly and complex, and our aim has always been to simplify experiences for our customers so they can achieve value faster, he added in a press release. By joining forces with Snowflake, we can empower our customers with the immense scale and radical simplicity of Snowflakes platform, ultimately unlocking data engineering for more users.Thanks in part to AI, the demand for data management technologies has surged. Fortune Business Insights estimates that the market for global enterprise data management could be worth $224.87 billion by 2032.Data management was a challenge for enterprises long before the AI boom, though. According to a 2022 survey from Great Expectations, a platform for data quality, 91% of organizations said that data quality issues were impacting their performance.Against that backdrop, its not surprising to see firms like Datavolo rise to prominence. Today was a newsy day for Snowflake, which reported better-than-expected earnings that sent its stock climbing 19%. In addition to buying Snowflake, the company announced a multi-year partnership with Anthropic to integrate the AI startups models in its Snowflake Cortex AI, Snowflake Intelligence, and Cortex Analyst products.

Audiences can finally get their first look into the making of How to Train Your Dragon, the live-action reimagining of the first film in the hugely successful animated franchise launched by DreamWorks Animation back in 2010.The new film, hitting theaters June 13, 2025, is written, produced and directed by three-time Oscar nominee and Golden Globe winner Dean DeBlois, who along with The Wild Robot director Chris Sanders, directed the original. It is also produced by three-time Oscar nominee Marc Platt (Wicked, La La Land) and Emmy winner Adam Siegel (Drive, 2 Guns).Christian Manz is serving as production VFX supervisor; VFX studios on the film include Framestore and Clear Angle Studios.The film is set on the rugged isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been bitter enemies for generations, Hiccup (Mason Thames; The Black Phone, For All Mankind) stands apart. The inventive yet overlooked son of Chief Stoick the Vast (Gerard Butler, reprising his voice role from the animated franchise), Hiccup defies centuries of tradition when he befriends Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond reveals the true nature of dragons, challenging the very foundations of Viking society.With the fierce and ambitious Astrid (BAFTA nominee Nico Parker; Dumbo, The Last of Us) and the villages quirky blacksmith Gobber (Nick Frost; Snow White and the Huntsman, Shaun of the Dead) by his side, Hiccup confronts a world torn by fear and misunderstanding.As an ancient threat emerges, endangering both Vikings and dragons, Hiccups friendship with Toothless becomes the key to forging a new future. Together, they must navigate the delicate path toward peace, soaring beyond the boundaries of their worlds and redefining what it means to be a hero and a leader.The film also stars Julian Dennison (Deadpool 2), Gabriel Howell (Bodies), Bronwyn James (Wicked), Harry Trevaldwyn (Smothered), Ruth Codd (The Midnight Club), BAFTA nominee Peter Serafinowicz (Guardians of the Galaxy) and Murray McArthur (Game of Thrones).Inspired by Cressida Cowells New York Times bestselling book series, DreamWorks Animations How to Train Your Dragon franchise earned four Academy Award nominations and grossed more than $1.6 billion at the global box-office.How To Train Your Dragon is part of the Filmed For IMAX Program, which offers filmmakers IMAX technology to help them deliver high-quality immersive movie experience to audiences around the world.Source: NBC Universal Dan Sarto is Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Animation World Network.

Movie & Games TrailersAlien: EarthBy Vincent Frei - 20/11/2024 Before the stars became a battleground, the terror began on Earth. Witness the origins of the nightmare. Alien: Earth the story begins three decades before Ripleys fight for survival!The Production VFX Supervisor is Jeffrey Okun.The Production VFX Producer is James Ledwell.Director: Noah HawleyRelease Date: Summer 2025 (Hulu) Vincent Frei The Art of VFX 2024

Breakdown & ShowreelsInsomnia: VFX Breakdown by BlueBoltBy Vincent Frei - 20/11/2024 Insomnia brings Sarah Pinboroughs 2022 novel to life thanks to the invisible visual effects by the London-based studio BlueBolt. Witness chilling nightmares and a hauntingly beautiful visual world that deepens the suspense of this British thriller series!WANT TO KNOW MORE?BlueBolt: Dedicated page about Insomnia on BlueBolt website. Vincent Frei The Art of VFX 2024

Multinational printing firm HP has introduced a range of innovations in polymer and metal AM at Formnext 2024, aiming to improve cost efficiency, scalability, and accessibility in additive manufacturing.Key announcements include a new flame-retardant polymer material, advanced software tools for streamlining workflows, and strategic collaborations to enhance metal printing applications. These efforts are designed to address challenges in adoption and expand the technologys impact across industries, including automotive and footwear production.Attendees at the tradeshow can visit HP at Hall 12.1, Stand D41, to explore developments and participate in discussions on additive manufacturing topics.Ken Burns, VP of Commercial at Forecast 3D said, As an early customer, Forecast 3D expects a 20% savings in total build costs with the HP Build Optimizers unique nesting rules for MJF. In addition to these total build cost savings, we anticipate a 21% improvement in printer utilization with the HP Build Optimizers ability to increase packing density and parts per build.HPs booth at Formnext. Photo via HP 3D Printing.New materials and tools for additive manufacturingAmong the highlights was the introduction of HP 3D HR PA 12 FR, a halogen-free, flame-retardant material developed in partnership with Evonik.Scheduled for availability in early 2025, the material features a 50% reusability ratio that helps reduce production costs while ensuring high-quality aesthetics. It is geared toward industrial and consumer electronics applications and reflects HPs emphasis on sustainable practices, being produced using renewable energy.Another significant development is the launch of HP 3D Build Optimizer, an automated tool designed to improve part nesting, reduce build costs, and maintain quality standards. Set for release in 2025, this tool complements HPs ongoing efforts to optimize production workflows.Additionally, the company announced a partnership with Autodesk, resulting in the Autodesk Fusion Bundle. This integrated CAD/CAM and build preparation solution will be bundled with all new Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) and Metal Jet printers, offering users a one-year license to Autodesk Fusion.Collaborative efforts with software providers have further enhanced HPs ecosystem. Integration of the HP Lattice Library into Magics expands design capabilities for MJF applications, while a partnership with Fabrex introduces an AI-powered platform to streamline build preparation, order management, and tracking for HP 3D printer users.Initiatives for metal AM accessibilityIn metal 3D printing, HP revealed new configurations for the Metal Jet S100 platform, tailored to meet diverse production requirements. These configurations, expected to launch in 2025, are designed to lower adoption costs and provide scalable solutions for research centers, OEMs, national laboratories, and startups exploring metal binder jetting technology.Collaborations with industry leaders are reinforcing HPs progress in the sector. A partnership with ArcelorMittal combines expertise in additive manufacturing and sustainable steel production to lower costs and expand the use of 3D printed steel in automotive and other sectors.Meanwhile, efforts with Eaton are advancing nitrogen-enhanced sintering, which improves mechanical properties in 316L metal parts, and the S100 Powder Processing Solution, designed to reduce costs and enhance binder jetting yield.Adoption of metal AM is further supported through the establishment of a Metal Jet Adoption Center in Barcelona, created in partnership with AMES. This facility integrates HPs 3D printing technology with AMES metallurgical expertise, enabling customers to transition efficiently from prototyping to full-scale production.Moreover, HP also introduced the Leading Minds Consortium, an alliance among industry giants such as 3D Systems, Ansys, EOS, Materialise, Nikon SLM Solutions, Renishaw, Stratasys, and Trumpf. This initiative aims to address challenges such as cost and system integration, fostering wider adoption of industrial 3D printing.In the sporting goods sector, HP has partnered with Something Added to convert the D-factory into a hub for footwear manufacturing. This initiative aims to leverage additive manufacturing for cost-effective, large-scale production.The Leading Minds Consortium. Photo via HP 3D Printing.Spotlight on industry innovations in Formnext 2024This years tradeshow is witnessing AM industry giants with unique offerings at the event. Reportedly recently, electronics 3D printer manufacturer Nano Dimension is showcasing its Fabrica software 3.2.0, which enhances micro 3D printing speeds by 70% while optimizing workflows for R&D and prototyping.Alongside this, the company also introducing Ataru, a resin offering advanced thermo-mechanical and dielectric properties, tailored for demanding sectors like electronics, aerospace, and automotive. Demonstrations will also highlight the Admatec series ability to 3D print intricate technical ceramics, with applications spanning medical devices, tooling, and more at Hall 11, Stand D22.Additionally, US-based 3D printer manufacturer 3D Systems has introduced a diverse range of 3D printing technologies and materials at the event, tailored for industrial workflows. Among the key innovations is the PSLA 270 SLA system, designed for creating mid-sized parts with speed and precision.Complementing this are the Wash 400/Wash 400F and Cure 400 post-processing solutions, which streamline resin cleaning, and advanced materials such as Figure 4 Rigid Composite White, ideal for demanding applications. Additional developments include the SLS 380 with precise thermal control and new materials for SLS and MJP technologies. Alongside these developments, the company is also conducting presentations on different topics across various stages.Catch up on all the news fromFormnext 2024.Voting is now open for the2024 3D Printing Industry Awards.Want to share insights on key industry trends and the future of 3D printing? Register now to be included in the2025 3D Printing Industry Executive Survey.What 3D printing trends do the industry leaders anticipate this year?What does the Future of 3D printing hold for the next 10 years?To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, dont forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter, or like our page on Facebook.While youre here, why not subscribe to our Youtube channel? Featuring discussion, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays.Featured image shows the Leading Minds Consortium. Photo via HP 3D Printing.

Metal 3D printer manufacturer Nikon SLM Solutions has unveiled its redesigned SLM 280, SLM 280 Production Series (PS), and SLM 500 machines, offering advanced features aimed at increasing productivity and reliability.With a guaranteed minimum uptime of 85% and a track record of exceeding 90% uptime in existing installations, these systems reflect ongoing progress in metal additive manufacturing. Alongside these updates, the new Picture Perfect Pro Plan service package has been introduced, complementing the machines with extended support. Both offerings are being showcased atFormnext trade show this week in Hall 12.0, Booth D119.The SLM 280 Production Series system. Image via Nikon SLM Solutions.Streamlined design meets elevated productivityFeaturing a sleek exterior redesign and technological upgrades, the SLM 280, SLM 280 PS, and SLM 500 models incorporate advanced recoater brushes, Permanent Filter Modules (PFM), and powerful 700W lasers. These enhancements are crafted to simplify workflows while raising performance benchmarks in metal AM. Each feature is part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and ensure a seamless experience for users.Supporting these developments, the Picture Perfect Pro Plan offers a robust package of benefits for customers in North America and Europe.Existing clients upgrading their machines or renewing their service contracts for five years can also take advantage of this plan. Notably, this initiative introduces an industry-first uptime commitment for mid-size and larger systems, reinforcing Nikon SLM Solutions dedication to reliability and precision.According to the company, this plan includes several key benefits, beginning with a guaranteed minimum of 85% uptime for models such as the SLM 280, SLM 280 PS, SLM 500, and NXG series.Customers currently using these systems report uptime rates exceeding 90%, which highlight the machines dependable performance across multiple sectors. Operational efficiency is further supported by essential production items, including intuitive handling devices for safe and efficient part management. In addition, buyers of the SLM 500 will receive additional build cylinders to prevent interruptions in production cycles.To enhance digital optimization, customers will also gain access to five years of software solutions, including SLM.Link, SLM.Quality, and Free Float. Tailored powder supply contracts ensure uninterrupted workflows, while Nikons Total Care program offers comprehensive service and support over the same five-year period. These measures collectively ensure operational reliability and consistency for users.The SLM 500 3D printing system. Image via Nikon SLM Solutions.Shaping metal AM with robust systemsNikon SLM Solutions latest developments reflect ongoing progress in metal AM, with other industry players introducing systems tailored for advanced applications and high-performance production. Recently, metal 3D printer manufacturer Eplus3D introduced the EP-M4750, a metal 3D printer designed for large-scale batch production in industries like aerospace, automotive, and tooling.Utilizing Metal Powder Bed Fusion (MPBF) technology, it supports a variety of metals, including titanium and aluminum, and offers a build volume of 450 x 750 x 530 mm. Equipped with dual or quad 500 W fiber lasers (optional 700 W), it achieves print speeds up to 70 cm/h. Features like adjustable layer thickness, advanced gas flow, and proprietary software streamline production, making the EP-M4750 ideal for high-output industrial applications.Additionally, large-format robotic 3D printer manufacturer Caracol has introduced Vipra AM, its latest large-format additive manufacturing (LFAM) 3D printing system, at Formnext 2024. Designed for large-scale metal 3D printing, Vipra AM combines robotic deposition and automation to produce complex industrial components with precision and efficiency.Offering two configurations, Vipra XQ (Extreme Quality) focuses on high precision for aerospace and energy sectors, while Vipra XP (Extreme Productivity) enhances throughput for automotive and marine industries. Supporting hybrid workflows, the system reduces waste and lead times.Catch up on all the news fromFormnext 2024.Voting is now open for the2024 3D Printing Industry Awards.Want to share insights on key industry trends and the future of 3D printing? Register now to be included in the2025 3D Printing Industry Executive Survey.What 3D printing trends do the industry leaders anticipate this year?What does the Future of 3D printing hold for the next 10 years?To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, dont forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter, or like our page on Facebook.While youre here, why not subscribe to our Youtube channel? Featuring discussion, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays.Featured image shows the SLM 280 Production Series system. Image via Nikon SLM Solutions.

Hey yall! I have a couple of general questions for you. I would be interested in your point of view on these processes.How do you go through the process of creating a VFX?What questions do you ask yourself?How do you develop your creativity?How do you decide which technical method to use (for shapes, textures, emitters)?Have you ever felt that you are not good enough? burnout? What do you do when you feel like that?Wanted this topic to be informative and something you can open up about. Thank you in advance. 1 post - 1 participant Read full topic

So yesterday I wanted to do healing effect, I searched in pinterest for ideas and watched some videos about it.This is the result of that brief moment of inspirationI am so happy that I am getting faster and better each day!I also borrowed some textures from @Niels.Sorry, about the emitters names 3 posts - 2 participants Read full topic

Linked Hybrid | Iwan BaanIn the heart of Beijing, the Linked Hybrid project redefines the boundaries of urban architecture, offering a paradigm shift from the privatized developments dominating contemporary China. Designed to counteract the isolation of modern towers, Linked Hybrid creates a porous, interactive, and sustainable urban ecosystem. This city within a city not only integrates residential, commercial, educational, and recreational spaces but also emphasizes connectivity and ecological responsibility, marking it as a landmark of twenty-first-century urban design.Linked Hybrid Technical InformationArchitects1-14: Steven Holl ArchitectsLocation: Beijing, ChinaTopics:Urban PorosityArea: 220,000m2 | 2,368,000Sq. Ft.Project Year: 2003 2009Photographs: Iwan Baan, Shu HeThe 220,000 square-meter Linked Hybrid complex in Beijing aims to counter the current privatized urban developments in China by creating a twenty-first-century porous urban space, inviting and open to the public from every side. Steven Holl ArchitectsLinked Hybrid PhotographsAerial View | Shu HeBridge View | Shu HeCourtyard | Shu HeCourtyard | Shu HeCourtyard | Iwan BaanBridges | Iwan BaanEntance Detail | Iwan BaanBridge Interior | Iwan BaanCommunal Spaces | Iwan BaanAuditorium | Iwan BaanLinked Hybrid: Architecture as Urban ExperienceThe Linked Hybrid complex revolves around a groundbreaking concept: an interconnected open city that transcends physical barriers. At ground level, the design fosters accessibility through open passages flanked by micro-urbanisms small-scale shops and pedestrian pathways that encourage community interactions. A large central reflecting pond anchors this space, adding a serene dimension to the urban hustle.Spatial transitions in Linked Hybrid are anything but linear. Movement through the site resembles a cinematic experience, with ramps, turns, and elevators orchestrating a sequence of dynamic perspectives. The design transforms everyday journeys into immersive spatial narratives, challenging the static nature of conventional high-rise developments.This approach extends vertically through multi-functional skybridges that span the 12th to 18th floors. These elevated corridors interconnect eight residential towers and a hotel, housing shared amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness room, caf, and gallery. The skybridges offer sweeping views of Beijing and serve as a microcosm of urban life in the sky, blending private and communal realms.Programmatic and Social ConnectivityAt its core, Linked Hybrid aspires to be more than a residential complex; it aims to function as a vibrant urban hub. The ground level brims with public amenities, including a restaurant, hotel, Montessori school, kindergarten, and cinema, each seamlessly integrated with green spaces. These elements collectively create a base loop, inviting visitors and residents alike to experience a shared sense of place.The skybridges introduce a second loop, establishing a semi-public realm high above the city. These elevated pathways transform the residential towers into interlinked social hubs, fostering encounters and interactions. Together, the base and sky-loops function as social condensers, generating spontaneous relationships and infusing the architecture with an organic, lived-in quality.Sustainable Innovation and Environmental DesignLinked Hybrids sustainability credentials stand out as a model for future urban developments. The project employs a pioneering geothermal well system, with 655 wells drilled to a depth of 100 meters. This system provides efficient heating in winter and cooling in summer, significantly reducing the projects environmental footprint.A central reflecting pond enhances both aesthetics and functionality. It incorporates a greywater recycling system and serves as a focal point for the development. During the winter months, the pond freezes, transforming into an ice-skating rink that adds seasonal charm to the complex. These innovative design strategies highlight the integration of ecology and urban living.Aesthetic and Cultural ResonanceThe architectural language of Linked Hybrid draws inspiration from Chinese Buddhist temples, evident in its vibrant color palette and layered design. The underside of the skybridges and cantilevered portions glow with hues inspired by ancient temples, creating a striking visual identity, particularly at night. The window jambs are uniquely colored based on chance operations derived from the The cinematheque, a key feature of the complex, encapsulates the fusion of function and form. Floating above the reflecting pond, its reflective faades double as projection screens, turning the building into a dynamic visual centerpiece. Inside, the cinematheque offers community-focused programming and spectacular views, reinforcing its role as a cultural and social hub.Linked Hybrid in Beijing exemplifies how architecture can transcend traditional boundaries to foster a more inclusive, interactive, and sustainable urban experience. Through its innovative spatial design, social connectivity, and environmental strategies, the project addresses the challenges of urban living in the twenty-first century. More than a collection of towers, Linked Hybrid serves as a vision for interconnected living, offering lessons in how architecture can enrich both individual and communal lives.Linked Hybrid PlansSite Plan | Steven Holl ArchitectsGround level | Steven Holl ArchitectsElevation | Steven Holl ArchitectsElevation | Steven Holl ArchitectsSection | Steven Holl ArchitectsSection | Steven Holl ArchitectsFacade Detail | Steven Holl ArchitectsBridfe Section Detail | Steven Holl ArchitectsLinked Hybrid Image GalleryAbout Steven Holl Steven Holl isa renowned American architect celebrated for his innovative and human-centered approach to architecture. Born in 1947 in Bremerton, Washington, Holl is the founder of Steven Holl Architects, an internationally acclaimed firm recognized for blending spatial experimentation with sustainable and poetic design. His work often explores the intersection of light, materiality, and phenomenology, creating buildings that respond thoughtfully to their cultural and environmental contexts. Holls portfolio includes iconic projects like the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Addition, the Simmons Hall at MIT, and the Chapel of St. Ignatius. A recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including the AIA Gold Medal and the RIBA International Prize, Holl is a leading figure in contemporary architecture.Notes & Additional CreditsClient: Modern Green Development Co., Ltd. BeijingDesign Architect: Steven Holl, Li HuPartner in Charge: Li HuSenior Associate in Charge: Hideki HiraharaAssistant Project Architect: Yenling ChenTechnical Advisors: Chris McVoy, Tim BadeProject Designers: Garrick Ambrose, Yimei Chan, Rodolfo Dias, Gong Dong, Peter Englaender, Guido Guscianna, Young Jang, Edward Lalonde, JongSeo Lee, Richard Liu, James MacGillivray, Matthew UselmanProject Team Members: Jason Anderson, Lei Bao, Christian Beerli, Johnna Brazier, Cosimo Caggiula, Kefei Cai, Guanlan Cao, Shih-I Chow, Sofie Holm Christensen, Frank-Olivier Cottier, Christiane Deptolla, Mike Fung, M. Emran Hossain, Gyoung-Nam Kwon, Eric Li, Tz-Li Lin, Clark Manning, Maki Matsubayashi, Giorgos Mitroulias, Daijiro Nakayama, Olaf Schmidt, Judith Tse, Li Wang, Ariane Wiegner, Lan Wu, Noah Yaffe, Liang ZhaoAssociate Architects: Beijing Capital Engineering Architecture Design Co. LTDStructural Engineer: Guy Nordenson and AssociatesMechanical Engineer: China Academy of Building ResearchSustainability Consultant: TranssolarElectrical and HVAC Consultant: Cosentini AssociatesGeneral Contractor: Beijing Construction Engineering Group