The Inspirations Collection.
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Welcome to designbivouac’s inspiration collection.
Exploring design and innovation.
Over 30 years of collaboration, designbivouac has uncovered lasting insights. Inspirations is a curated collection of inspirational objects and ideas shaping a continuous journey of creative exploration.
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SOLSTICE - 5 | Masterfully Visualizing Scale
Solstice—5: Forgotten Archives offers remarkable visuals that capture the scale of interplanetary exploration. It also delivers a powerful cautionary tale about our exploitation of nature and potential future uses of AI right here on Earth.
Solstice—5: Forgotten Archives offers remarkable visuals that capture the scale of interplanetary exploration. It also delivers a powerful cautionary tale about our exploitation of nature and potential future uses of AI right here on Earth.
The art direction and design by Paul Chadeisson are remarkable. The narrative weaves together suspense, discovery, and the ethical dilemmas of tampering with newly discovered planets. With its blend of mystery, technology, and human curiosity, SOLSTICE—5: Forgotten Archives offers a compelling journey into the unknown, inevitably forcing us to think about how we continue to explore and exist on our own planet.
The visualization masterfully captures a sense of scale. The world it presents is one of immense, forgotten technology — massive spacecraft and towering mechanical platforms that stretch far beyond the horizon. These colossal structures are not just remnants of some distant technological age but monuments to lost ambition, crumbling slowly in the face of time and erosion. What gives them true gravity, however, is their juxtaposition against vast natural landscapes — windswept deserts, jagged cliffs, and still valleys that seem to whisper stories of long-past industrial glory.
The visual storytelling is precise and intentional. Human figures are shown only sparingly, but when they appear, they are small — almost invisible at first glance. A lone explorer, a maintenance worker, or a robed traveler might be standing on a catwalk or dwarfed by the base of a landing gear the size of a city block. These moments are quiet but powerful. The contrast between human and machine scales invites reflection: not only on the limits of human capability but also on the haunting beauty of what we leave behind.
Peter Elson Tribute
Many hours were spent at the bivouac in the early years, pouring over details within Peter Elson’s science fiction illustrations. This spacecraft TRIBUTE, created in the style of Peter Elson, is intended to be just that—a tribute to a fantastic illustrator.
Countless hours were spent at the bivouac in those early years, immersed in the intricate worlds crafted by Peter Elson’s science fiction illustrations. Each detail—each glint of metal, every improbable angle—was a portal into vast, imagined futures. This spacecraft TRIBUTE, rendered in the unmistakable style of Elson, is precisely that: a heartfelt homage to a visionary artist whose work ignited the imaginations of so many. From its vivid color palette to its layered mechanical complexity, the design celebrates Elson’s ability to blend the fantastical with the plausible, where engineering meets imagination on the canvas of deep space.
Deeper thinking about our place in the universe, coexisting with others, and the potential of science fiction to be both cautionary and inspirational were all key takeaways from Elson’s work, featured in books like those from the Terran Trade Authority.
More than an AI-generated model, TRIBUTE is a memory made tangible, a gesture of gratitude for the wonder sparked at the bivouac, and a salute to a master of speculative visual storytelling.
Related Links
Great Space Battles: A Terran Trade Authority Handbook
Terran Trade Authority Website
Additional designbivouac Post on Peter Elson
To view more of Peter Elson’s work visit: www.this-is-cool.co.uk/the-classic-sci-fi-art-of-peter-elson/
Futureproof: USGS Monitor
Future USGS locations may be supplemented with Monitor technology that collects data related to weather, vegetation conditions, wildfire management, wildlife migration, and more.
Future User Narrative
On a recent cross-country motorcycle trip, I stopped north of Moab, Utah, to bivouac for an evening. The dry creekbed and a nearby rock formation protected me from the gentle overnight breeze. I took a short hike at sunrise and came across one of those new USGS markers with a solar-powered camera Monitor kit anchored next to it. I scanned the QR code on the badge to access the viewpoint later. It was strange to have felt so alone and isolated the evening before, only to discover a Monitor station a quarter of a mile away. It's good that these resources are available for those who need assistance. I can also view the camera feed from this location remotely at any time, which is excellent as it is now one of my favorite bivouacking sites. Still, I am starting to wonder what it takes to get off the grid for a while.
Technology
AI-enabled, solar-powered image monitoring for fire prevention, weather forecast augmentation, vegetation monitoring, and remote assistance services
Implications
With new off-grid support infrastructure in place, what does getting away from it all mean?
How might this seldom-seen support network impact the human spirit?
How might USGS Monitoring technology save lives and communities as we experience more severe weather and wildfire events?
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.
Moving Lounges of Dulles
Once seen as a critical element in ensuring efficiency in the nation's aviation mobility infrastructure, Dulles Airport's “People Movers” were part of a grand vision that involved transporting airline passengers directly from the ticketing area to their aircraft.
Once a critical element in ensuring efficient aviation mobility, Dulles Airport's “People Movers” were part of a grand vision that transported airline passengers directly from the ticketing area to their aircraft.
The system failed to scale with the advent of the 747 and other jumbo jets. Yet, it is inspiring to see the macro-level thinking that inspired a system envisioned to rise to the jet age and beyond, as captured in the promotional film from 1958.
However, the modular concept and convenience of conveyance underpin even today’s successful mobility-on-demand services. Modern airports achieve this via moving walkways, trams, shuttle buses, and carts. The means of delivery may have changed, but the value of the point-to-point mobility concept remains anchored in human need, which persists today.
An underground air train system now services terminals with greater efficiency. The original concept fell short of the compelling storytelling that the masters of design, Charles and Ray Eames, are known for. As with many notable moments in mobility, concepts from over 60 years ago can seem quaint or quirky.
Images: Library of Congress. Learn more about the Dulles International Airport’s “Mobile Lounges.”
Shapes from the Future
As a means of inspiration, the bivouac recently thought back to iconic objects, those notable stepping stones that have inspired generations of designers and have led, in some part, to the brighter side of where we are today. Perhaps we can learn from these successes and failures as we shape a new and exciting future together.
The bivouac recently began collecting objects that have or are likely to serve as timeless shapes from the future, inspiring generations of designers. Perhaps we can learn from aspects of these product successes and failures as we shape our future together.
Presented here are a few iconic designs that seem to have come from the future to inspire. What shapes from the future or your past do you draw inspiration from?
BMW's CE O4 is A-OK
The mobility industry is transforming as the world moves towards sustainable solutions. Electric vehicles (EVs) have become the focal point of this transformation. BMW, a leading automaker renowned for its innovation, has taken a significant stride toward the future with its latest electric scooter, the BMW CE 04.
The mobility industry is transforming as the world moves towards sustainable solutions. Electric vehicles (EVs) have become the focal point of this transformation. BMW, a leading automaker renowned for its innovation, has taken a significant stride toward the future with its latest electric scooter, the BMW CE 04. This state-of-the-art electric scooter is not just a mode of transport but a statement of style, technology, and sustainability for urban commuters.
The BMW CE 04's most prominent feature is its all-electric powertrain, which eliminates harmful tailpipe emissions. As cities grapple with air pollution and climate change, transitioning to electric vehicles becomes an integral part of the solution. The CE 04 helps reduce carbon footprints, making it an eco-friendly choice for urban commuters. The electric scooter is powered by a reliable and efficient battery pack, offering a remarkable range on a single charge. This eliminates range anxiety, allowing riders to cover substantial distances without worrying about frequent recharging. Additionally, regenerative braking technology further enhances the scooter's efficiency by capturing energy during braking and storing it in the battery.
Sleek Design and Urban Chic
Although released in 2022, many may not have had the opportunity to see one yet. If you have, chances are that it stood out as the design is unique. Besides being environmentally conscious, the BMW CE 04’s sleek, futuristic design evokes the styling of Japanese anime vehicles (do Akira motorcycles come to mind?). Its streamlined body, sharp contours, modular appearance, and modern accents create a sense of urban chic. With an emphasis on style and function, this electric scooter sets itself apart from traditional gasoline-powered scooters, turning heads and making a bold statement on city streets.
Advanced Connectivity and Technology
BMW has always been at the forefront of automotive technology, and the CE 04 exemplifies this commitment. The scooter comes equipped with a range of cutting-edge features, making it more than just a means of transport. An intuitive touchscreen display provides riders with easy access to vital information, including battery status, navigation, and smartphone integration. Riders can connect their smartphones via Bluetooth and access features like music, calls, and notifications while keeping their hands safely on the handlebars. Furthermore, the BMW CE 04's connected services enable riders to plan routes, locate charging stations, and receive real-time updates on traffic and weather conditions. This level of connectivity and convenience elevates the urban commuting experience, underscoring BMW's dedication to creating intelligent mobility solutions.
Comfort and Safety
Riding in urban environments demands a scooter that prioritizes comfort and safety. The BMW CE 04 meets these requirements with its ergonomically designed seat, spacious footrest, and ample legroom, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable ride even during prolonged journeys. It even has room for safe helmet storage below the seat as the long and low battery opens up space.
Safety features are not compromised either, as the CE 04 incorporates advanced rider-assistance systems, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and stability control. These features enhance braking performance and provide optimal stability, reducing the risk of accidents and instilling confidence in riders.
Conclusion
The BMW CE 04 is more than just a mode of transportation; it represents the future of urban mobility. Its electric powertrain, sleek sci-fi invoking design, advanced technology, and commitment to sustainability encapsulate the essence of modern urban living. Whether you're an urban commuter seeking a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate the city or simply an enthusiast embracing the wave of electric vehicles, the BMW CE 04 offers a more stylish option that will undoubtedly shape the future of urban mobility.
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Just Print It!
The always informative Matt Risinger with Build recently explored how Icon is now printing a neighborhood in Texas to learn how to scale up their home printing technology best.
The always informative Matt Risinger with Build explored how Icon is printing a neighborhood in Texas to learn how to scale up their home printing technology best. Working with Lennar homes, this 100-home neighborhood may be making history as more resilient and affordable homes take shape one printer pass at a time.
While the kinks with the technology are still being worked out to achieve efficiencies at scale, it is inspiring to see larger projects beginning with large home builders. Take a look at the future of homebuilding at iconbuild.com. Naturally, floodproof, fire resistant, insect proof, sign me up!
Related Article: www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/texas-news/worlds-largest-3d-printed-neighborhood-set-to-break-ground-in-austin-next-year/2818293/
Images: Lennar
Is VW’s Future in Its Past?
With all the turmoil at Volkswagen, it remains to be seen what path the company will take moving forward. Despite decent vehicle sales against 2022’s headwinds, the company is rumored to be scrapping its current electric vehicle platform for an entirely new architecture. Fundamental leadership changes were recently announced at the CEO and Head of Design levels.
With all the turmoil at Volkswagen, it remains to be seen what path the company will take moving forward. Despite decent vehicle sales against 2022’s headwinds, the company is rumored to be scrapping its current electric vehicle platform for an entirely new architecture. Fundamental leadership changes were recently announced at the CEO and Head of Design levels. Here’s hoping a new electric platform designed from the ground up and a bit of looking at successes from the past can help move the company forward.
Well, here is a suggestion. Take a long, hard look back at more of your heritage vehicles. Why not apply your next-generation electric platform to making new vehicles that resemble desirable models from yesteryear? There is really no need to contemporize with flashy “ID. Buzz” aesthetics and the like. Modernize the one we knew and loved with modern manufacturing techniques and designs that meet today’s safety standards. The company had some success doing this with the VW bug, and it had a good run. Why not start with the new electric platform and relaunch with this…an electric-powered version of a T3 Syncro in a crew-cab Doka Transporter configuration?
Focus on building a line of vehicles closer to what VW was once known for producing: honest, economical, straightforward, accessible cars for the people. Variants of one platform worked in the past. They could again if the design of the new EV platform is done with that in mind. Efficiencies of this approach are working well for Tesla with the Model 3 and Model Y. Need more convincing of the appeal of your heritage vehicles? This artifact from VW’s past recently sold for $51,000 on Bring A Trailer.
And pick up the pace if you can. The competition is moving fast. Modernizing your iconic VW bus from the 1970s took over 20 years of concepting.
2001 Microbus Concept (Arguably the best looking vehicle of all the VW Van Concepts)
2011 Bulli Concept
2016 BUDD-e Concept
2017 I.D. Buzz Concept
2023 I.D. Buzz production model finally becomes available
Here's to 2023 and Beyond...
As we begin stretching to return to our moon, land on Mars, and venture beyond, let us never stop believing in the promise of the future as embodied so poetically by Stanley Kubrick and Johann Strauss II in their times and together in ours.
As we plan a return to the moon, strive to land on Mars, and venture beyond, let us never stop believing in the promise of the future as embodied so poetically by Stanley Kubrick and Johann Strauss II. Both were visionary creatives in their time, and it will take many more like them to overcome today’s challenges and keep moving forward.
Going Big with Sea Dragon
The Apollo program was appropriately scaled to match America’s grand ambitions for putting the first human being on the moon. But there was an alternative rocket proposed to the mighty Saturn V.
The NASA Sea Dragon concept represents a visionary and audacious approach to space launch systems that was proposed in the late 1960s but never realized. Designed by engineer Robert Truax, the Sea Dragon was envisioned as a colossal, single-stage-to-orbit rocket, among the largest ever conceived. What set the Sea Dragon apart was its unique launch method—submersion in the ocean.
This massive rocket would be constructed as a semi-submersible platform at sea, where it would be assembled and fueled and then floated to the launch site. The rocket's enormous payload capacity could have revolutionized space travel, potentially ferrying entire space stations or lunar habitats into orbit in a single launch. While the Sea Dragon concept was never built due to budget constraints and changing priorities, it remains a symbol of bold thinking in space exploration and the innovative ideas that have driven NASA's research and development efforts over the years.
Approach for launching Sea Dragon rocket at sea
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Hassel + EOC Envision a Home on Mars
Congratulations to Hassell + EOC for crafting an inspirational bivouac for use on Mars. For many, conceptualizing habitation on Mars evokes the curiosity and optimism that was once experienced by many during the beginning of the space age.
Congratulations to Hassell + EOC for crafting an inspirational bivouac for use on Mars. For many, conceptualizing habitation on Mars evokes the curiosity and optimism once experienced by those taking part in earlier lunar exploration programs like Apollo. The 3D printed habitation concept is a beautifully considered design that accommodates constraints, builds on modular redundancy, anticipates harsh conditions of the red planet, and provides for the essential needs of a new generation of human explorers.
The Hassel + EOC concept of "Envision a Home on Mars" represents an innovative and forward-thinking approach to the prospect of human habitation on the Red Planet. This visionary project aims to design a feasible and sustainable living space for future Martian settlers, taking into account the challenges of the Martian environment while prioritizing the well-being and functionality of its inhabitants. With an inner inflatable living area architecture surrounded by a solid 3D printed structure made up on Martian soil, the facility will have dual layers of protection from atmospheric conditions. The design integrates cutting-edge technology, such as 3D printing and the use of local resources, to create a modular and adaptable living environment. It focuses on maximizing efficiency and self-sustainability, emphasizing features such as radiation protection, life support systems, and robust structures capable of withstanding the harsh Martian conditions. This concept envisions a habitat that fosters a sense of community and well-being while pushing the boundaries of architectural and technological innovation in the pursuit of establishing a viable human presence on Mars.
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Sci-Fi Illustrator Visionary Peter Elson
Future User Interfaces (or FUIs) have been buzzing lately at the bivouac. This got me thinking about how my interest in FUIs and things like "science faction."
At its best, science fiction provides design inspiration and a powerful means of looking ahead toward possible futures. The term "science faction" refers to things once represented in science fiction that have actually come into existence. I gave a TEDx Talk a while back exploring how the phenomenon of "science faction" can inspire us as we design for the future of education.
My first encounter with science fiction was during Christmas of 1979. I was twelve and still reeling from seeing "Star Wars" two years earlier. That Christmas, I received "Great Space Battles" by Stewart Cowley and Charles Herridge. Written with the authority and detail of a history textbook, the richly illustrated stories of future space exploration and conflicts captured my imagination.
For hours, I studied and tried to replicate the exquisite details of Peter Elson’s work and others in my work. Through attempting to replicate their masterpieces, I learned about light sources, shadow play, proportions, shading, perspective, implied materiality, and aspects of physics. Last but certainly not least, I learned about the art of applying" greebles,” or intricate details that make surfaces more exciting and enhance a sense of the scale of objects.
I was honored by a local hero artist named David Morris (who went on to work at Industrial Light and Magic) when he noted how well I applied greebles. That early praise of my drawings, along with supportive parents and an excellent elementary school Art teacher named Ms. Tilson, helped build my creative confidence. Through studying Peter Elson’s work, I learned the power of imagination to take us to new places.
Below are a few early inspirations from Peter Elson. To take a closer look at Elson's work, visit: www.peterelson.co.uk
Operation Ares by Peter Elson
Final Fantasy Holographic Interfaces
There are many excellent examples of holographic interfaces interspersed throughout the film “Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within.”
There are many excellent examples of holographic interfaces interspersed throughout the film “Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within.” I’d encourage interaction designers looking for inspiration to watch the film. Thankfully, someone took the time to make a summary video from the Huds and Guis section of Vimeo, which is available below.
BMW GINA Visionary Concept Vehicle
GINA (which stands for Geometry and Function in Infinite Adaptation) may be a bit of an acronym stretch, but then again, stretching is appropriate for a concept vehicle with a flexible skin.
GINA (which stands for Geometry and Function in Infinite Adaptation) may be a bit of an acronym stretch, but then again, stretching is appropriate for a concept vehicle with a flexible skin. Take a closer look at how the GINA Visionary Concept Vehicle is set to reshape automobile design thinking.
The Future of Flight
The Embassy created noteworthy visualizations of future aircraft for a feature article appearing in the October 2003 issue of Popular Mechanics.
The Embassy created noteworthy visualizations of future aircraft for a feature article in the October 2003 issue of Popular Mechanics. What makes many of these futuristic aircraft visualizations so convincing is their placement in photorealistic background settings and remarkable attention to detailed texture mapping, which gives the vehicles a real-world lived-in look.
Catch a glimpse of things to come via theembassyvfx.com/portfolio/popular-science-the-future-of-flight
HAL 9000
An essential entry in the Interface Hall of Fame, the HAL 9000 and its associated information displays remain impressive nearly 40 years after their creation
An essential entry in the Interface Hall of Fame, the HAL 9000 and its associated information displays remain impressive nearly 40 years after their creation. And that's no lie. Thanks HAL.
Final Fantasy Surgical Interface
While "Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within" was panned by many critics as being overhyped and having an unsatisfying storyline, it is hard to deny that, at a visual level, the film certainly has its moments.
While many critics panned "Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within" as overhyped and having an unsatisfying storyline, it is hard to deny that, at a visual level, the film certainly has its moments. The characters have compelling technology to tap into, including Dr. Aki Ross's surgical laser, complete with a holographic interface. Check out the film if you are interested in animated features. The film features some noteworthy vehicles, uniforms, and clothing.
Red Planet (HAC Flexible Display)
The flexible display-equipped HAC units resemble the Tube concept put forth by a team of designers from IDEO in their 2010 technology forecasting project conducted for BusinessWeek.
The HAC flexible display device enabled the team in the film Red Planet to overlay accurate position information with a view of their surroundings to gain their bearings once they crashed on Mars. The flexible display-equipped HAC units resemble the Tube concept put forth by a team of designers from IDEO in their 2010 technology forecasting project conducted for BusinessWeek.
