The Inspirations Collection.
Explore.
Catalog.
Scroll to view more.
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.
Search Inspiration Entries
CudaJet: The Underwater Jetpack
The CudaJet is a true underwater jetpack—worn like a backpack, allowing divers to glide hands-free beneath the surface. Instead of holding onto bulky sea scooters or kicking with fins, your body becomes the controller. Steering is accomplished through subtle shifts in posture, making the experience feel more akin to underwater flight than traditional diving.
The CudaJet is a true underwater jetpack—worn like a backpack, allowing divers to glide hands-free beneath the surface. Instead of holding onto bulky sea scooters or kicking with fins, your body becomes the controller. Steering is accomplished through subtle shifts in posture, making the experience feel more akin to underwater flight than traditional diving.
Its sleek hydrodynamic shell, carbon fiber harness, and compact propulsion system generate up to 40 kilograms of thrust, propelling users to speeds of around 3 meters per second. It’s fast, quiet, and fluid—designed to feel more like a creature of the sea than a machine.
Experience & Context
Initially developed for professional divers and rescue teams, the CudaJet is now making waves in the luxury adventure scene. Resorts in the Maldives and other high-end destinations offer it as an exclusive experience, allowing guests to explore reefs and open water with an unprecedented sense of freedom.
Users describe it as “weightless flying,” with effortless control and a sensation of immersion that blurs the line between human and marine life. Its portability also makes it attractive for expedition teams, filmmakers, and marine scientists.
Why It Matters
CudaJet isn’t just a cool gadget—it represents a leap forward in how we interact with the natural world. It blends bio-inspired motion with cutting-edge design, offering a new way to experience underwater environments while minimizing its impact. For designers, technologists, and adventurers alike, the CudaJet prompts questions about future mobility, human-machine interaction, and the ethics of exploration in fragile ecosystems. It’s a bold new chapter in the story of underwater design.
Pros
Hands-free operation with body-directed movement
Precision throttle control for smooth acceleration
Rechargeable and eco-conscious—no fuel required
Durable, sleek, and highly engineered for both comfort and performance
Considerations
Premium price (~$18,000–$30,000 depending on customization)
Requires breath-hold diving; not compatible with scuba systems
Fitness, confidence, and dive safety knowledge are prerequisites
Not suited for shallow or obstacle-heavy water without training
Technical Specs (2025 Model)
Weight (on land): Approximately 13.2 kg for the jetpack unit
Max depth: 40 m (factory-limited to 3 m for safety)
Runtime: Up to 40 minutes per charge
Recharge time: Approximately 75 minutes
Controls: Wired throttle with color display and ultra-fine adjustment
Harness sizing: Fits chest sizes from 81–152 cm
Cautions
Not a Life-Saving Device: It is a performance-enhancing tool, not a rescue system. It does not replace dive training or flotation gear.
Breath-Hold Use Only: The CudaJet is not compatible with traditional scuba diving (due to air pressure differentials at depth and free ascent risks). It’s designed for snorkeling and free diving only.
Battery Handling: Like with any high-output lithium battery, improper charging, exposure to saltwater, or physical damage could present risks. Users are advised to follow strict charging and storage protocols.
Physical Fitness Required: Operating a high-speed underwater propulsion system requires strong swimming skills, core control, and situational awareness.
Hair and Loose Gear: Long hair must be tied up, and no loose straps or accessories should be worn, as they could get caught in the thrusters.
Environmental Awareness: With speeds of up to 3 m/s, it's easy to collide with reefs, other divers, or wildlife if you’re not highly alert and respectful of your surroundings.
Images: Cudajet
Sawmill House: A Rugged Retreat
Nestled in the rugged high desert of Tehachapi, California, the Sawmill House by Olson Kundig stands as a testament to sustainable design and harmonious integration with nature. Designed as an off-grid family retreat, this 4,170-square-foot residence embodies resilience, adaptability, and a profound respect for its environment.
Nestled in the rugged high desert of Tehachapi, California, the Sawmill House by Olson Kundig is a testament to sustainable design and harmonious integration with nature. Designed as an off-grid family retreat, this 4,170-square-foot residence embodies resilience, adaptability, and a profound respect for its environment.
Architecture Rooted in Place
Sawmill's design draws inspiration from the site's former mining and logging area history. The homeowners aimed to honor this legacy by creating a structure that gives back to the land. The house comprises three wings connected by a central hearth, reminiscent of tents gathered around a campfire—a nod to communal living and connection to nature.
A standout feature is the 12-by-26-foot window wall in the living area, which retracts with the turn of a wheel. This innovative design blurs the line between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing the patio to become an integral part of the living area.
Sustainability at Its Core
Operating entirely off the grid, Sawmill utilizes an 8.4-kilowatt photovoltaic array to power all electrical systems, including the water pump. The home's orientation maximizes natural light and cross-ventilation, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. These strategies result in the house generating 96% less CO₂ than a typical single-family home.
Materials were selected for their durability and minimal environmental impact. Concrete block, steel, and glass form the primary palette, with salvaged and recycled materials incorporated wherever possible. This "scavenger mentality" reflects a commitment to sustainability and resourcefulness.
Recognition and Awards
Sawmill's innovative design and environmental stewardship have earned it several accolades, including the 2018 AIA National COTE Top Ten Award and the AIA National Small Project Award.
Visual Highlights
The Sawmill House seamlessly integrates with its desert surroundings.
The 12-by-26-foot window wall opens to merge indoor and outdoor living spaces.
The central hearth serves as the heart of the home, connecting all three wings.
A Model for Sustainable Living
The Sawmill House exemplifies how thoughtful design can create a self-sufficient, environmentally conscious dwelling that does not compromise on aesthetics or comfort. It stands as an inspiring model for future sustainable architecture, demonstrating that living in harmony with nature is both achievable and beautiful.
Sources: Olson Kundig, ArchDaily, Contemporist, Architect Magazine
DJI Flips The Script On Drone Deployment
The DJI Flip’s bold little leap into the pocket drone space flips the script in more ways than one. It’s a fun-first drone that nails the basics and adds a bit of flair. It’s designed for casual flyers, content creators, and younger users seeking portability and performance.
The DJI Flip is DJI’s bold little leap into the pocket drone space, and it flips the script in more ways than one. It’s a fun-first drone that nails the basics and adds a bit of flair. It’s aimed at casual flyers, content creators, and younger users looking for portability and performance.
Launched on January 14, 2025, the DJI Flip is an ultralight drone weighing just 249g, exempting it from U.S. FAA registration requirements. Its foldable design with full-coverage propeller guards ensures safe and reliable flying, even for novice pilots. The DJI Flip is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact, feature-rich drone without breaking the bank. Its high-quality imaging, intelligent flight modes, and safety features make it ideal for content creators and hobbyists.
Flip expands to reveal protected propeller blades and folds into a compact carry size.
Features that separate it from the competition:
Portable: This thing folds into the size of a large phone. Toss it in a jacket pocket, and you're good to go.
One-Touch Tricks: True to its name, the Flip shines with built-in aerial flips and cinematic auto-maneuvers. Want to pull off an orbit or barrel roll? It's just a tap away.
DJI's Signature Stability: Even with its featherweight frame, the Flip holds surprisingly steady in mild wind thanks to DJI's tried-and-true stabilization tech.
Solid Camera for Its Class: 4K video, decent low-light performance, and a gimbal that works, not just digital wizardry pretending to be one.
This is something to consider:
App Features Can Lag: Some users have noticed delayed responses between app controls and drone execution, especially when using advanced modes.
No Obstacle Avoidance: This is a fun flyer, not a brainy one. You’ll want to keep it in open spaces or fly it manually with a light touch.
Embracing Nature: A Bivouac-Inspired Home
In the rugged landscape of New Zealand's Queenstown-Glenorchy Road lies an architectural marvel inspired by the simplicity and integration of traditional bivouacs. Designed by Vaughn McQuarrie for Alan Luckie and Jen Arnold, this home blends seamlessly with its schist-heavy hillside environment.
In the rugged landscape of New Zealand's Queenstown-Glenorchy Road lies an architectural marvel inspired by the simplicity and integration of traditional bivouacs. Designed by Vaughn McQuarrie for Alan Luckie and Jen Arnold, this home blends seamlessly with its schist-heavy hillside environment.
The design of this 112-square-meter home is a thoughtful response to the surrounding natural environment, drawing inspiration from the raw beauty of the landscape and the simplicity of traditional tramping huts. It features rugged concrete panels and bandsawn timber cladding, materials chosen not only for their durability but also for their textural connection to the outdoors. These elements evoke a sense of groundedness and authenticity, bridging modern architecture with timeless rustic charm.
A soaring, high-ceilinged interior enhances the sense of space while maximizing passive thermal performance—capturing warmth in winter and encouraging natural airflow in summer. Expansive windows are carefully oriented to frame uninterrupted mountain views, inviting the landscape into the living space and fostering a continual connection with nature.
More than just a residence, the home embodies a holistic commitment to reducing ecological impact without compromising on aesthetic integrity. Every detail—from material selection to spatial layout—reflects a deep respect for the environment and a desire to live in quiet harmony with it.
For more details, visit Home Magazine.
Framer Components Inspired by Dieter Rams
As interaction and industrial designers, we should always strive for clarity and delight in our work, which comes from paying attention to the smallest details. This beautifully executed website features Framer components inspired by Dieter Rams' design principles.
As interaction and industrial designers, we should always strive for clarity and delight in our work, which comes from paying attention to the smallest details. This beautifully executed website features Framer components inspired by Dieter Rams' design principles. Enjoy interacting with the array of elements here.
On a related note, the website contains a critical look at “Flat Design,” which seems timely given the movement's proliferation and the usability limitations that sometimes can be accommodated with the aesthetic.
Reassessing Flat Design: A Critical Look Through Dieter Rams’ Principles
Rabbit Introduces R1 and Rabbit OS
In UX and AI news, Rabbit introduces the R1 personal companion that leverages natural language models and a Large Action Model (LAM) to get things done across applications or web pages.
In a bold step toward redefining user interaction with digital tools, Rabbit has introduced the R1, a compact personal AI companion designed to streamline everyday tasks through intuitive natural language interactions. At the heart of the R1 is a sophisticated integration of natural language models paired with Rabbit's proprietary Large Action Model (LAM)—a system trained to understand and perform complex tasks across a wide range of applications and websites.
Unlike traditional virtual assistants that rely on rigid scripts or predefined integrations, the R1’s LAM enables it to see and act like a human user, navigating interfaces, clicking buttons, and filling forms based on user intent. This means users can ask the R1 to do things like order food, book a flight, or manage emails—all through a single conversational interface.
Targeting the disintegrated ecosystem of apps on smartphones, Jesse Lyu, the CEO and founder of an AI startup called Rabbit, ran through the rationale for the product and presented some compelling demos, which included booking a flight for a family with specific travel needs and planning an entire relaxed vacation itinerary. The pocketable device, co-designed by the delightful folks at Teenage Engineering, is expected to begin shipping around Easter with an initial price of $199. It will be interesting to see if the interaction is fluid enough for users to make more room in their pockets for the handy assistant. Check out the introductory video below.
Images: Rabbit
A Cabin in the Trees
Kariouk Architects created a remarkable lakeside cabin in the sky for owners in the province of Quebec. Innovative use of materials, including low-waste Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) and unique structural angles of support, are signature elements of the structure.
Kariouk Architects has designed an extraordinary elevated retreat—a “cabin in the sky”—set against the serene backdrop of a lakeside property in Quebec. Suspended above the landscape, the structure blends daring design with environmental responsibility, offering a fresh interpretation of cabin living. At the core of the project is the innovative use of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)—a low-waste, high-performance material that offers both structural integrity and a warm, tactile quality. The architects skillfully combine this sustainable material with bold, angular supports, creating a visually striking form that appears to hover lightly above the terrain while firmly anchoring into place.
The cabin’s dramatic elevation not only minimizes its impact on the natural landscape below but also elevates the experience of its occupants—literally and figuratively—offering panoramic views of the lake and treetops, as well as a powerful sense of serenity and escape.
This architectural feat stands as a testament to Kariouk’s commitment to thoughtful design, where material innovation, environmental sensitivity, and sculptural form come together to create something truly remarkable. Living off-grid entirely is possible with passive and active solar accommodations, as well as minimal solar panel and battery requirements. A high-efficiency wood stove and backup propane heater provide emergency backup if needed, as the site is remote. Minimal foundation pads reduce the amount of concrete used for the home’s foundation, thereby enhancing the overall design's sustainable aspects.
Related Information: www.kariouk.com/
Photos: Kariouk Architects.
Anti-Fall Airbags
S-Airbag is now making a smart wearable anti-fall airbag vest that deploys automatically in the event of a fall. Using similar technology found on MotoGP motorcycle rider vests, this system protects the wearer’s head and hips from injury during falls.
S-Airbag has introduced a cutting-edge smart wearable airbag vest designed to provide automatic protection in the event of a fall. Drawing on the same advanced technology used in MotoGP rider gear, the vest uses sensors and algorithms to detect the moment a fall begins—deploying airbags instantly to cushion and protect key areas such as the hips and head. This innovative safety solution is particularly valuable for elderly individuals or those with mobility challenges, offering a discreet yet highly effective layer of protection that could significantly reduce the risk of serious injury. It's a powerful example of how high-performance tech from extreme sports is now being adapted to enhance everyday safety.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in four Americans aged 65 and older experiences a fall each year—a statistic that underscores a serious public health concern. Falls can have a devastating impact on an individual's health, safety, and long-term independence, often leading to injuries that require extended recovery or result in permanent disability. While the appearance of a smart anti-fall airbag vest might draw the occasional chuckle, its purpose is anything but laughable. With a form-follows-function design, this wearable technology is engineered to protect the most vulnerable areas—the hips, head, neck, and lower back—during a fall. For those at risk, it’s a crucial tool that offers peace of mind, enhanced safety, and the possibility of maintaining an active and independent lifestyle.
Note: As an Amazon Associate designbivouac may benefit/earn from qualifying purchases.
Revisiting 3D Printed Homes
We previously posted about Matt Rissinger from The Build Show visiting Lennar and ICON’s 3D-printed neighborhood in Texas.
We previously posted about Matt Risinger from The Build Show visiting Lennar and ICON’s 3D-printed neighborhood in Texas.Matt returns to the Lennar/ICON community to check out more features of homes in the build process and view finished homes. Benefits of 3-D printed homes include increased strength over wood framed homes, increased efficiency for heating and cooling, lower cost, shorter construction time, increased resistance to insects, increased resistance to mold, increased fire resistance, and a longer lifecycle of the material and the structure.
Lennar and ICON have made a significant mark in the Texas housing market with their innovative 3D-printed homes. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, these industry leaders are revolutionizing the construction industry in Texas. Lennar, a renowned real estate company, has partnered with ICON, a 3D printing construction technology pioneer, to create sustainable and cost-effective housing solutions. Their collaboration has produced stunning, energy-efficient homes that reduce construction waste and offer a faster and more affordable housing option. These 3D-printed homes in Texas are a prime example of how technology is transforming the real estate landscape, offering environmentally friendly and economically accessible housing options to residents in the state.
Less is Far More
Tesla is always looking to reduce the complexity of its vehicle design. This Autoline Daily video outlines several ways the company is reducing part count and aiding operators in vehicle assembly.
Tesla is always looking to reduce the complexity of its vehicle design. This Autoline Daily video outlines several ways the company is reducing part count and aiding operators in vehicle assembly.
Note that the large aluminum gigacasting parts in the front and rear of the cars are produced in Austin, Texas. They reduce part count dramatically while providing large access areas for assembly workers. All this effort to make things modular and more manageable for human operators may someday pay off by further automating Tesla’s manufacturing processes with advancements in robotic assembly.
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.
AI-enhanced post
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
The Sur Ron X Evolved
As you can see in the excellent demo ride video from Electric Cycle Rider, the folks over at 4MFoundry are applying all that has been learned over the past few decades about off-road riding in designing their upgraded body and seat kit for the Sur Ron X.
The kit features an extension of seat padding over the battery storage area. This allows riders to shift their weight more comfortably forward when needed. Side skirts enable riders to grip and control the bike with their knees. Aesthetically, the kit cleans up the bike design. 4MFoundry’s efforts highlight one of the best things about the Sur Ron platform—passionate and relatively easy community-based customization. Here’s wishing 4MFoundry all the best in improving the already remarkable Sur Ron X.
Photo: 4MFoundry
Learn more about the remarkable Sur Ron at sur-ronusa.com.
You can read more about the kit which is still in prototype form over at Electric Cycle Rider.
Ready to pick up a Sur Ron for yourself? The bivouac had a good experience with Sur Ron’s distributor Luna Cycles, quickly procuring its Sur Ron Black Edition.
Where There's Smoke, There Should be a Dyson
The bivouac’s northern HQ was recently allocated a Dyson TPO4 Pure Cool Tower capable of clearing the air in an 800-square-foot space. While testing continues through the latest California wildfire season, preliminary results are impressive.
The bivouac’s northern HQ was recently allocated a Dyson TPO4 Pure Cool Tower capable of clearing the air in an 800-square-foot space. While testing continues through the latest California wildfire season, preliminary results are impressive. With outdoor air quality indices coming in lately at upwards of 180, interior bivouac spaces are averaging a measurement of just 12 on the PM 2.5 scale.
These include microscopic particles smaller than 2.5 microns, including smoke, bacteria, and allergens. With its handy remote and a Wi-Fi connection that lets you control the unit and get deeper trending information through Dyson’s link app, the Dyson Pure Cool Tower is a clear winner.
Note: As an Amazon Associate designbivouac may benefit/earn from qualifying purchases.
Defying Gravity
Some of humanity’s aspirations are timeless. Such is the desire to fly. As a result, the challenge is continually taken up by bright minds. As technology advances, our dreams of gracefully transcending the bounds of earth’s gravitation seem more achievable.
Some of humanity’s aspirations are timeless. Such is the desire to fly. As a result, the challenge is continually taken up by bright minds. As technology advances, our dreams of gracefully transcending the bounds of earth’s gravitation seem more achievable. Such is the case with Gravity, which produces one of the fastest jet packs supporting human flight today. It is inspiring to see dreams like this pursued. Not only because they make progress towards addressing our timeless fascination with flight, but they open up many practical applications.
One could imagine that Gravity’s system could empower firefighters to launch from one building to another. Trailing a cable, those trapped atop a burning skyscraper could take a safe zip-line ride. Once enough, additional thrust is assured with the system. Potential victims could just be plucked one by one from burning buildings or sinking ships. As the introduction of the helicopter back in the 1940s proved, beneficial applications abound for breakthrough VTOL technologies like these. I wish the team at Gravity all the best in their uplifting endeavors.
Axopar 37 XC Cross Cabin
With local COVID restrictions of hand-launched watercraft like kayaks and canoes now being lifted in the bivouac’s northern outpost, more lake time has been had recently. This has the bivouac turning eyes toward the nautical side of things.
With local COVID restrictions of hand-launched watercraft like kayaks and canoes now being lifted in the bivouac’s northern outpost, more lake time has been had recently. This has the bivouac turning eyes toward the nautical side of things. The 2020 Axopar 37 XC Cross Cabin is a new find that combines the best features from at least a couple of boat classes.
Know as the “Grand Turismo of the Seas,” on sunny days; the cabin doors slide wide open, the top slides back, and cabin gull-wing doors can even be opened wide to approximate a sun runner. In inclement weather, things can be reversed and buttoned up nicely with Webasto heating, keeping things toasty. The fore and aft cabins provide ample accommodations for a small family weekend getaway or an outing with friends. As Axopar has added an option for a wet bath and a galley behind the cockpit, longer runs are possible, too. The only things missing, which the company seems to be working on, are a larger refrigeration space and accommodations for hot water. Air conditioning would also be great but may not yet be on the list.
Overall, she’s a natural beauty with a revised raked roofline for 2020 that makes the boat appear more aggressive. And with twin Mercury outboard engines, she is undoubtedly capable of delivering a sporty yet controlled and smooth ride that matches her appearance due to her stepped hull design. Mercury joystick controls as an option complement her graceful lines with graceful in-harbor handling. All-in-all, it is a gorgeous and refreshingly practical nautical accomplishment.
Ursa Minor for JLUR
The bivouac hopes the Ursa Minor J30 pop-up camper hard top for the Jeep JL Rubicon Unlimited is worth the wait.
The bivouac hopes the Ursa Minor J30 pop-up camper hard top for the Jeep JL Rubicon Unlimited is worth the wait. Long intrigued by how the company’s current product transforms the JK into a platform for serious overlanding and…well…bivouacking; it would be great to see the company refine the design and make it available for Jeep’s newer JL and Gladiator lines soon. According to the company’s website, production for the JL was supposed to start in January, so they may already be on it.
Created to explore color and feature options, the image above is a quick visualization of what the bivouac hopes to see from the company. And, of course, the JLUR accessories from AEV are also eagerly awaited.
One good thing about the wait is that the diesel version of the JLUR Rubicon is now out, offering more torque, fuel economy, and hopefully reliability than other engine options in the FCA lineup. Who knows, maybe the plug-in hybrid will be around the corner despite the general assumption it won’t be available until around 2022. Well, good things are generally worth the wait.
Rendering created by the biviouac. Hopefully something like this will soon be available for the JLUR from Ursa Minor.
RIvian: Runnig Circles Around the Competition
Rivian has covered some impressive ground recently, having developed its own proprietary electric mobility chassis targeted at the pickup truck segment. From designing unique cross-vehicle body storage options to setting new benchmarks for robustness and predicted range, the folks at Rivian keep admirably pushing the edge of what has previously been possible with trucks. And now they have released a Tank Turn video that serves as an exciting reminder that there is much to come with the introduction of electric mobility platforms in the years to come. By modulating output directly from its four motors, the Rivian demonstrates a nimbleness that will stop others in their tracks. Now, that’s a turn for the better.
The Sur-Ron Is Spot On!
The bivouac has been impressed by recent videos highlighting the surprising capabilities of the Sur-Ron electric bike, proving that companies like Tesla are not alone in disrupting mobility as we know it.
The bivouac has been impressed by recent videos highlighting the surprising capabilities of the Sur-Ron electric bike, proving that companies like Tesla are not alone in disrupting mobility as we know it. Check out what Electric Cycle Rider says while shaking down a Sur-Ron and watch it perform while racing. It is still early in the electric bike segment, so reaching these performance levels is impressive. While riders are dialing in brakes, forks, and other components, the Sur-Ron platform, in particular, is amazing right out of the box. Even so, companies like Luna Cycle are finding new ways to get even more out of their Sur-Rons by adding belt drives by Gates and even engineering their high-output batteries. Watch this space and keep up if you can. 2020 looks to be another fast-moving year for this segment.
Pro AirPod Pro
The bivouac has had a pair of Apple Pod Pro headphones for over a week. Performance has been impressive.
The Apple Air Pod Pros have come along at a time when one would think that performance was pretty much at its apogee. The bivouac has been fortunate to use in-ear and on-ear noise-canceling headphones from manufacturers, including Bose, Sony, Bang, and Olufsen. Apple’s newest Air Pod Pro represents a genuine change in comfort and performance over the competition.
Apple’s noise-canceling technology does an excellent job of providing a private sanctuary, regardless of where you are. The technology works surprisingly well in busy open-plan offices, commuter trains, or airplane flights with fussy infants. The audio quality is excellent. New nuances of songs can be heard when listening to favorite tracks. This is the case at the high end and low in the bass range, allowing you to enjoy your music collection anew.
Long-term wearability has been an issue with other in-ear headphones, with some causing chaffing, but there are no signs of that with Apple’s new iPod Pros. Fit is remarkably comfortable. The shape of the ear covering is “squircular”, or rectangular with rounded corners, which, depending upon the shape of your ear, aids in seamless sealing. This provides the first line of defense from unwanted ambient noise. Aesthetics are better with these headphones as well. The earphones are a bit more subtle. The descending microphone elements are shorter, and angle slightly inward to more naturally follow the profile of the outer ear.
Apple has fit an impressive amount of technology into these tiny but powerful headphones. With the Air Pod Pros, Apple has pushed the packaging envelope even further to accommodate the active noise-canceling technology. Controls are well thought out, providing an intuitive haptic sensation associated with clicking the headphones. One-click pauses playback. Two clicks advance a track. A long hold toggles through “active noise canceling,” “transparency,” and “off” modes.
While familiar, the case takes a bit of getting used to. Grasping the Air Pod Pros to take them out of the case can be tricky, and placing them back into their recesses is more involved. Thankfully, there are still magnets assisting the Airpods in finding their place. That said, if the case is dropped, they are not strong enough to keep the AirPods anchored, and they will most likely launch out of the case. Another nice touch is the subtle but distinctively pleasant scent of the Air Pod Pro ear pads. There is no funky plastic or rubber scent here. It smells more like how one might imagine a desirable blue-sky future smelling.
Charge levels seem fine for use throughout the day, and topping up the charge in the case and is quick and straightforward. Pairing is also straightforward and similar to the method used with the original Air Pod case.
Transparency mode gives one a sense of almost having superhuman powers. Reminiscent of The Bionic Man, conversations or announcements around you come through clearly. They made presenters at a conference compromised by ambient noise easier to hear. In summary, Apple’s Air Pod Pros are much more than an incremental innovation.
Note: Since this original post was published, Apple has improved the Airpods, offering a second-generation version available from Amazon via the link below.
As an Amazon Associate, designbivouac may benefit/earn from qualifying purchases.