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
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.
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/
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.”
Up...up...and away!
Gravity continues to make progress on its rocket pack technology. Check out the company's genesis and some applications it is refining.
Gravity continues to make progress on its rocket pack technology. Hopefully, the company can continue to branch beyond potential military applications to things like exploration and perhaps empowering first responders or lifesaving use of the technology, such as assisting with evacuation from burning skyscrapers. This is undoubtedly one of the most compelling forms of human flight to ever take to the skies.
The Gravity Jet Pack Company is a pioneering and innovative enterprise at the forefront of the personal aviation industry. With a vision to make science fiction dreams a reality, this cutting-edge company specializes in designing and producing state-of-the-art jet packs that enable individuals to defy gravity and take to the skies with precision and safety. Their commitment to safety and efficiency is paramount, incorporating advanced technologies and rigorous testing to ensure a secure and exhilarating flying experience. As they continue to push the boundaries of human flight, the Gravity Jet Pack Company is a beacon of progress in the ever-evolving world of aviation, offering a thrilling glimpse into the future of personal transportation and exploration.
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.
Diversity of Mobility
Earth is an amazing planet. There is so much to see and many ways to move around it…and for the soul to be moved. Though not for the faint at heart, gliding must rank up there with the most serene forms of mobility.
Earth is a fantastic planet. There is much to see and many ways to move around it. Some ways of moving also move our souls. Though not for the faint at heart, gliding ranks amongst the most serene forms of mobility. Much of the most dramatic soaring takes place out of Fayence Soaring.
Fayence Soaring, also known as Vol à Voile de Fayence, is a famous glider flying destination in Fayence, a picturesque town in southern France. This soaring center is renowned for its ideal conditions for gliding, attracting enthusiasts from around the world. Nestled in the stunning Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, Fayence offers a unique combination of reliable thermals, favorable weather, and breathtaking landscapes, making it a haven for glider pilots. The area's geographical features, including the Mediterranean Sea to the south and the Prealps to the north, create the perfect environment for thermal and ridge soaring, allowing gliders to reach impressive altitudes while enjoying the beauty of the French countryside. Fayence Soaring is not only a paradise for experienced glider pilots but also a place for novices to take their first flights and experience the thrill of soaring in the clear, azure skies of southern France. Thanks to Christopher Fleming for capturing his brave and beautiful flights.
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
AI-enhanced post
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.
Just How Big Is It?
Tim Dodd, Everyday Astronaut, and some colleagues have created an excellent video showing rocket renderings in relatable places. It provides familiar contexts to help us better grasp the actual size of today’s impressive space vehicles.
Tim Dodd, Everyday Astronaut, and some colleagues have created an excellent video showing rocket renderings in relatable places. It provides familiar contexts to help us grasp the actual size of today’s impressive space vehicles. While there have been similar visualizations featuring fictional space vehicles, like massive Star Wars spacecraft hovering over Manhattan, this is still a big, beautiful idea that is nicely executed. Congratulations to the team there, and enjoy. Earth’s space efforts seem to be sizing up well!
Moonrise Podcast is a World Apart
The Moonrise podcast series takes a unique look at what it took for NASA to reach the moon.
The bivouac just finished the podcast from the Washington Post entitled “Moonrise.” The series takes a unique look at what it took for NASA to reach the moon. Packed with beautiful insights about the American and Russian space programs, the podcast takes a heavily covered topic and empowers listeners to take the journey anew with a fresh perspective. Take the journey to the ultimate bivouac and download the podcast series today.
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.
AI-enhanced post.
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
Apollo Command Module Console
A classic collection of interaction design touchpoints make up the Apollo Command Module display console.
The Apollo Command Module display console is a classic collection of interaction design touchpoints. Note how functional elements are grouped into zones. Controls were designed to meet military specifications and resist unintended activation by weightless astronauts floating about the Command Module.
The Apollo Command Module display console stands as an iconic example of mid-20th-century interaction design, shaped by the practical needs of spaceflight and the rigorous demands of mission-critical environments. Far from being a random array of switches and dials, the console was methodically organized into zones based on function—communications, guidance, environmental controls, and propulsion—making it easier for astronauts to find and operate controls quickly under pressure. This functional zoning mirrored the mental models and task flow of the crew, a vital principle in modern interface design.
Each control and indicator was engineered to meet strict military specifications (MIL-SPEC), ensuring high reliability and resistance to environmental extremes. In the unique microgravity setting, these design constraints took on particular importance. Buttons were recessed or guarded to prevent accidental activation from floating limbs or tools, and toggle switches featured safety locks or detents. Knobs had tactile feedback and consistent resistance, allowing astronauts to operate them by feel when visual attention was elsewhere.
This thoughtful layout and robust construction made the console resilient and highly usable in one of the most unforgiving environments imaginable. The Apollo Command Module console can be seen as a forerunner of today's human-centered design philosophy, where ergonomics, task clarity, and operational safety converge. Its legacy continues to influence cockpit and control panel design in aviation and spaceflight. Would you like a diagram of the Apollo console layout to go with this?
The Apollo Guidance Computer (AGC), developed for NASA's lunar missions, introduced a unique and efficient user interface that relied on a system of "verb-noun" commands. This approach allowed astronauts to interact with the onboard computer using a numeric keypad and a display unit known as the DSKY (Display and Keyboard). Each command was composed of a verb, representing the action to be performed, and a noun, identifying the data or object of that action. For example, entering "Verb 06 Noun 20" would instruct the computer to display the spacecraft's velocity. The system was compact, highly structured, and optimized for the cognitive demands of spaceflight, where simplicity and clarity were essential.
This verb-noun structure allowed astronauts to perform a wide range of complex operations—from navigation to system diagnostics—using a consistent, modular language. Each verb and noun had a specific two-digit code, making it easier to memorize and reference. The design cleverly minimized ambiguity and reduced the risk of input errors, which was critical in the high-stakes environment of space missions. Despite the AGC’s limited memory and processing power by modern standards, its interface empowered astronauts to operate one of the most advanced pieces of technology of its time with remarkable precision and confidence.
Ace Combat 5: Pushing the Envelope
"Ace Combat 5: The Unsung War" keeps the Ace Combat series tradition of getting the most out of the Playstation 2 platform alive and well.
"Ace Combat 5: The Unsung War" keeps the Ace Combat series tradition of getting the most out of the Playstation 2 platform alive and well. Gameplay is compelling, and for flight lovers, the photo-realistic rendering engine using rich landscape textures and stunning details for aircraft provides visual delight.
Perhaps Namco's game tagline, "Nothing Else Comes Close," is the best summary for this edition...at this point. Let's hope the folks at Namco keep pushing things along. The latest version of the series provides an intriguing glimpse regarding possible future flight forms, including the massive low orbital aircraft and the ADF-01 Falken. The Falken image below shows the high detail and backstory that shapes the Ace Combat 5 world. Images share a surreal yet hyper-real quality.
