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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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.
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.
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.
Hobie Revolution 13
Having dusted off the Hobie Revolution 13 in the last couple of weeks, the bivouac is reminded of just how aptly it is named; the Hobie Revolution 13 represents a remarkable kayak revolution.
Having dusted off the Hobie Revolution 13 in the last couple of weeks, the bivouac is reminded of just how aptly it is named; the Hobie Revolution 13 represents a remarkable kayak revolution. Offering excellent stability in the water and superior ergonomic positioning over the last generation of sea kayaks, the Hobie Revolution 13 is designed to allow users to sit on it rather than in it. The lightweight seat is breathable and fully adjustable thanks to its integrated BOA-powered lumbar adjustment system and other thoughtful angle adjustments.
Coupled with the ground-breaking Hobie Mirage Drive, it transforms occupants into superheroes. Covering longer distances that would have once crushed one’s back and shoulders is now child’s play. The Mirage Drive is a remarkable piece of design and engineering. It empowers riders to move through the water quickly for long periods. Modeled after how penguins shift their fins through the water, the fins turn back and forth while pivoting, ensuring an unheard-of efficiency. Excellent ergonomics keep back fatigue at bay and allow occupants a more upright view, freeing them to focus more on their surroundings.
An ingenious rudder system rounds out the offering, providing agile and easily controllable handling and subtle wind offset functionality. Overall, the Hobie Revolution 13 is a well-rounded, stable platform upon which to move at speed or fish confidently. Two thumbs up and paddle raised high from the bivouac!
Cruisers Yachts 338
Companies like Cruisers Yachts deserve recognition as they push for more innovation in smaller and more modest sizes.
Companies like Cruisers Yachts deserve recognition as they push for more innovation in smaller and more modest sizes. And they are doing so while still offering stunning vessels. Witness the 2019 Cruiser Yachts 338 South Beach Edition.
It is a stunning yet pragmatic approach to designing a smaller yacht that can meet the needs of those setting out for a long weekend. The innovative rear seating, generous forward gunnel side storage, and an asymmetric passway through to the front bow area all distinguish the 338’s design. The rear platform even works well with the newest version of the 338 that incorporates outboard propulsion.
The generous berth below the foredeck has a modern and minimalist ambiance. Thoughtful integration sinks, refrigerators and microwaves, and an accessible rear swim platform show great attention to detail and sensitivity to balancing pragmatism with style. A powered extending bimini top helps provide shade for a large portion of the aft deck if desired. The rear swim platform provides a generous space to access the water, while an ingenious powered seat solution provides multi-position sun seating for lounging or socializing. Rear outboard propulsion is an option as well.
In a world in need of downsizing and the age of mega yachts, it is great to see companies offering solutions that are more appropriate in the context of the world economy today that still push design forward.
Volvo's New Shining Star
Volvo’s Polestar helped shape perceptions of the brand’s performance capabilities. Now, Volvo has announced the Polestar 2, which will usher the brand into new, fully electric vehicle territory.
Volvo’s Polestar division has already played a key role in reshaping the brand’s identity, showcasing its ability to deliver refined performance with a modern edge. Now, with the launch of the Polestar 2, Volvo is charting a bold course into the fully electric future. This sleek, all-electric fastback blends Scandinavian design with cutting-edge technology, marking a significant step in the brand’s sustainability journey. If Volvo can continue to build on the momentum and innovation that Polestar represents, it’s clear that this guiding star is lighting the way toward a bright and electrified future.
The Volvo Polestar 2 is a standout electric vehicle (EV) that embodies Volvo's commitment to sustainability and innovation. As part of the Polestar brand, Volvo's electric performance division, the Polestar 2 offers a unique blend of style, performance, and environmental consciousness in the luxury electric vehicle market.
One of the most distinctive features of the Polestar 2 is its design, which strikes a balance between modern minimalism and Scandinavian luxury. The clean lines and uncluttered interior create an inviting and spacious cabin. The vehicle's infotainment system, powered by Google's Android Automotive OS, provides a user-friendly and highly connected experience. Drivers and passengers can enjoy a range of innovative features, including voice control, navigation, and various apps.
In terms of performance, the Polestar 2 offers an impressive electric powertrain. It features a dual-motor setup that delivers all-wheel drive and robust acceleration. The vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.5 seconds, offering a sporty driving experience. With a large battery pack, the Polestar 2 boasts an estimated range of over 200 miles on a single charge, making it practical for daily commutes and longer journeys. Its commitment to sustainability is further underscored by its use of vegan materials in the interior and a focus on reducing its carbon footprint throughout its production and usage. The Volvo Polestar 2 represents a compelling option for those looking to combine luxury, performance, and eco-friendliness in an electric vehicle.
The BMW 1250cc Boxer
Here at the Bivouac, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing the rugged reliability of BMW’s boxer engine in an R1100RT and the sheer sophistication and power of their inline six-cylinder engine in their remarkable continent cruiser, the K1600GT. Now, BMW is offering a new boxer engine with ShiftCam technology.
Here at the Bivouac, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing the rugged reliability of BMW’s boxer engine in an R1100RT and the sheer sophistication and power of their inline six-cylinder engine in the remarkable continent cruiser, the K1600GT. Now, BMW is offering a new boxer engine with ShiftCam technology. Available in the new R1250RT and R1250GS.
BMW Motorrad's ShiftCam technology is an innovative engine design feature that has been integrated into their motorcycle lineup, enhancing both power delivery and fuel efficiency. ShiftCam stands for "Shift" and "Camshaft," and it represents a variable valve timing system, allowing the engine to optimize its performance characteristics depending on the rider's demands.
The core idea behind ShiftCam is to provide a broader and more usable power band. This technology allows the engine to switch between two camshaft profiles, one optimized for low to mid-range power and the other for high-end power. At lower RPMs, it operates with one cam profile, delivering smooth and efficient power for cruising and urban riding. As the throttle is opened further, or the engine speed increases, ShiftCam seamlessly switches to the second, more aggressive cam profile, delivering a surge of power and torque for spirited acceleration and highway cruising.
The benefits of ShiftCam technology are twofold. First, it improves the overall riding experience by providing better low-end torque and high-end power, making the motorcycle versatile in various riding conditions. Second, it enhances fuel efficiency and reduces emissions, as the engine can operate more efficiently across different RPM ranges. BMW Motorrad has integrated ShiftCam into several of its models, offering riders a dynamic and fuel-efficient performance that adapts to their riding style and preferences.
Danny Goodman's Macintosh Handbook
Bringing together Danny Goodman and Richard Saul Wurman, this publication was and remains an exceptional example of accessible and visually delightful educational material.
Many fond memories of shaping early interaction design courses in 1993 persist here at the bivouac. I was fortunate to enter the field at a time when computing had matured just enough to become accessible to a broader range of creatives. I was also lucky to teach both introductory and advanced courses in computer visualization.
For the introductory course, I relied upon Danny Goodman’s excellent Macintosh Handbook Featuring System 7. Bringing together Danny Goodman and Richard Saul Wurman, this publication was and remains an exceptional example of accessible and visually delightful educational material. The illustrations are clear and inviting, and they demystified the breakthrough technology on offer from Apple at the time. For other inspirational publications, check out the bivouac’s list of design-related readings. Overall, Danny Goodman’s Macintosh Handbook remains an outstanding exemplar of explicit and inspirational instructional reference material. It passes the test of time in a fast-moving technical context. For a first-hand account of what went into creating the publication, visit Nathan Shedroff’s site article.
The book is innovative in other ways as well. Information and terms are supplemented with hypertext-like cross-references to related content in different book sections. This is an excellent reminder of the heady days of the dawn of the Macintosh and the promise of newly accessible computing for all creatives to enjoy. The publication visuals mimic the Macintosh operating system visuals, including a “finder” menu along the top of many pages, to further demystify the new world of Apple technology.
The Last Staircase Challenge
Has Boston Dynamics solved the vexing "last staircase" challenge facing the on-demand delivery industry?
Has Boston Dynamics solved the vexing "last staircase" challenge facing the on-demand delivery industry? Look at the latest videos of Atlas and SpotMini in action and decide for yourself.
The Audaciousness of Apollo
Still serving as an inspiration today for those hoping that the human race will someday venture beyond the orbit of our moon to other planets and beyond, the Apollo program is still unsurpassed in its scope and audaciousness.
Still serving as an inspiration today for those hoping that the human race will someday venture beyond the orbit of our moon to other planets and beyond, the Apollo program is still unsurpassed in its scope and audaciousness. From its inception and from the very moment that President John F. Kennedy declared that America should set out on the grand adventure of setting a man on the moon and safely returning him to earth, the program was marked by boldness.
Recently, the bivouac’s appreciation of the effort grew after acquiring and putting together just a Lego version of the rocket. The size of the astronauts in comparison to the rocket reminds one of just how daunting the program must have felt at times for the tens of thousands of citizens who contributed to the accomplishment. It is fantastic to see the challenge of space travel being taken up once again with the likes of Elon Musk's SpaceX group. Below is a nice clip showing various space vehicles rendered on pad 39-A for side-by-side comparison.
Beyond Skin Deep
Something is striking about viewing cutaways of objects. One has the sense of being invited into a secret world, allowing us to see what lies beneath the skin of an object and how it is made.
Something is striking about viewing cutaways of objects. One has the sense of being invited into a secret world, allowing us to see what lies beneath the skin of an object and how it is made. This cutaway mockup of a 2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited four-door model gives the viewer a sense of the improvements made to the new model. This transparency shows Jeep’s confidence in their new vehicle and is visually fascinating, especially for objects as complicated to manufacture as automobiles.
Under the skin: The 2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
Timeless Timekeeping
The Rolex GMT-Master II is an excellent timepiece. This remarkable piece of human engineering and mechanical artistry inspires.
The Rolex GMT-Master II is an excellent timepiece. This remarkable piece of human engineering and mechanical artistry inspires. Rolex has a time-honored tradition of honing its products, refining each subsequent edition with subtle and dramatic technical advancements. Take a closer look at the bezel production process, and one's appreciation for these masterpieces is sure to grow. Few products manage to balance technical appeal while blending into formal contexts as well as this timepiece does. Established in 1905, the bivouac is looking forward to what the next 113 years bring from the company.
The Rolex GMT-Master II, often referred to as the "Batman" or "Blue and Black," is a highly coveted and iconic timepiece in the world of luxury watches. This distinctive model gained its nickname due to its unique bezel design, which features a combination of blue and black colors, resembling the iconic superhero's mask. The "Blue and Black" GMT-Master II is known for its exceptional craftsmanship, precision, and versatility. It is equipped with Rolex's proprietary Caliber 3285 movement, which offers impeccable timekeeping accuracy and a second time zone function. This feature makes it famous among travelers and pilots, allowing the wearer to track two time zones simultaneously.
The watch's blue and black ceramic bezel, also known as the "Cerachrom" bezel, is aesthetically striking, extremely durable, and resistant to fading, corrosion, and scratching. This combination of colors adds a touch of elegance to the watch and enhances its readability, thanks to the high contrast. The Rolex GMT-Master II "Blue and Black" is crafted from Rolex's renowned Oystersteel, ensuring both durability and a timeless design. With its classic and versatile appearance, this watch seamlessly transitions from formal occasions to more casual settings. It has become a symbol of Rolex's commitment to precision, innovation, and style, making it a prized possession for watch enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
How they did it: It is remarkable to see from the video below how much innovation goes into signature elements on the GMTII, including a proprietary ceramic bezel manufacturing process.
Keeping up with the times. The "Batman" blue and black version of the timeless Rolex GMT II (Reference: 116710BLNR) strikes a dynamic balance between technical advancement and timeless elegance.
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Just Ship It Series: Cadillac Cien
Although debuting way back in 2002, once the ELR starts shipping in January, kindly return your attention to the Cien, please, Cadillac.
Although debuting way back in 2002, once the ELR starts shipping in January, kindly return your attention to the Cien, please, Cadillac. The design of the Cien is a seamless fusion of aerodynamics and luxury. Its dramatic, angular lines and distinctive vertical headlamps make it visually striking. The cockpit blends innovative technology and refined materials with features like a heads-up display and premium leather surfaces. The gullwing-style doors add a touch of drama and accessibility. One in hybrid or BEV form would be an excellent "halo" vehicle for the brand.
The Cien, which means "one hundred" in Spanish, was created to celebrate Cadillac's centenary and to showcase the brand's innovation, performance, and design capabilities. The Cadillac Cien is a mid-engine, two-seat supercar that blends cutting-edge technology with elegant design. Its most notable feature is a 7.5-liter V12 engine that produces an impressive 750 horsepower. This powerplant is complemented by a hybrid system featuring a rear-mounted electric motor, which enhances the car's performance and efficiency. The Cien can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of approximately 200 mph, underlining its supercar status.
While it is understood that the Cadillac Cien was never intended for production, it serves as a bold statement of Cadillac's commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and technology. Many luxury performance car enthusiasts would love to see an updated version shipping from the luxury brand. Perhaps the Corvette C8 platform could prove worthy.
The Cadillac Cien powerfully demonstrates the capabilities of General Motors Design Studio.
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Trailing Trailers
This recent IIHS crash test footage is scary stuff and good to keep in mind the next time you find yourself following a semi truck. Why not back off just a bit?
This recent IIHS crash test footage is scary stuff and good to keep in mind the next time you find yourself following a semi truck. Why not back off just a bit? Oh yeah, and while you are at it, write the makers of Manac/Trailmobile and thank them for desiging and producing proper trailer underride crash components.
Enlightened Signature Elements
The Cadillac ELR design has been getting much attention at the bivouac lately. In addition to the striking design and progressive technologies inside and out, various small details stand out.
The Cadillac ELR design has been getting much attention at the bivouac lately. In addition to the striking design and progressive technologies inside and out, various small details stand out. Cadillac logo placement within both headlamp and tail light elements is well executed. Each adds an elegant and refreshingly understated yet dynamic signature touch. That's a tricky middle ground to hit. Here's hoping such attention to detail lights the way forward to continued impressive designs from the Cadillac studio in 2013 and beyond.
Star Wars Figures Bring a Large Figure
Whether you are a fan of George Lucas's Star Wars saga or not, one has to respect this collection of Star Wars figures. Displayed creatively, it strangely evokes some modern Bayeux Tapestry.
Whether you are a fan of George Lucas's Star Wars saga or not, one has to respect this collection of Star Wars figures. Displayed creatively, it strangely evokes some modern Bayeux Tapestry. The collection recently sold for over $11,000. It appears to be made up of the latest round of action figures, not the originals that launched in 1977. The tooling and detail in this generation of figures are superior. Still, I am thankful to have had some of the originals, lifting the horizon of my imagination through countless hours of creative play. I am sure that those hours spent re-enacting Lucas’s masterpiece taught me a thing or two about filming and storytelling.
Cadillac ELR: Faithful to the Concept
With the release of the production version of the Cadillac ELR at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this past week, General Motors proved that the resurgence of the American automotive industry continues.
With the release of the production version of the Cadillac ELR at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this past week, General Motors proved that the resurgence of the American automotive industry continues. Cadillac has stayed faithful to the 2009 Converj concept car that inspired the ELR, deserving high praise. Audi came close to this when they introduced the production version of the TT. However, with respect to the Cadillac ELR, it is a rare instance where the shipping car looks better than the concept car.
GM also deserves credit for moving into the luxury Extended Range Electric Vehicle luxury niche before other large-scale luxury vehicle manufacturers. They are introducing new driving affordances unique to this type of vehicle, such as steering wheel-mounted paddles that allow drivers to induce regenerative braking on demand. While we will have to wait and see how the ELR performs, on paper, things look promising. And if you are a fan of Cadillac's "Art and Science" aesthetics, on the showroom floor, things are looking great.
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Eyes are the Window to the Soul
There have been some fantastic things happening lately in the world of LED lighting for vehicles. More efficient and robust than traditional lighting, they adorn most new car models.
There have been some fantastic things happening lately in the world of LED lighting for vehicles. More efficient and robust than traditional lighting, they adorn most new car models. Given their ability to light up even the darkest corners of the Serengeti, it seems appropriate to see them now on the 2013 R1200GS. The units look fantastic in day and night running configurations, providing an even more aggressive and determined look for the GS. Now, that’s enlightenment at its best.
BMW Motorrad ConnectedRide
Daytime lighting, adaptive non-blinding headlights, speed limit sensing, vehicle-to-vehicle cross-traffic assistance, and collision mitigation, all on a motorcycle? Yes, please. The sooner, the better.
Daytime lighting, adaptive non-blinding headlights, speed limit sensing, vehicle-to-vehicle cross-traffic assistance, and collision mitigation, all on a motorcycle? Yes, please. The sooner, the better. BMW ConnectedRide is an advanced suite of safety features and technologies designed to enhance rider safety and improve the overall riding experience on BMW motorcycles. This comprehensive system integrates various sensors, communication tools, and innovative features to provide a safer and more enjoyable ride for motorcyclists.
BMW ConnectedRide exemplifies the brand's commitment to rider safety by integrating cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions to mitigate risks and enhance the overall motorcycling experience. These features work in harmony to make BMW motorcycles equipped with ConnectedRide some of the safest and most technologically advanced on the market, allowing riders to enjoy their journey with confidence.
BMW ConnectedRide is an advanced suite of safety features and technologies that include:
1. **Emergency Call and Assistance**: BMW ConnectedRide includes an eCall feature, which automatically contacts emergency services in the event of an accident. It provides critical information such as the motorcycle's location and notifies the emergency services, potentially saving lives.
2. **Adaptive Headlights**: Adaptive headlights adjust their angle and intensity based on the motorcycle's lean angle, providing improved visibility when cornering at night. This helps riders see better and be seen by other road users.
3. **Dynamic Traction Control**: BMW motorcycles equipped with ConnectedRide often feature dynamic traction control systems that help prevent wheel spin and provide optimal grip on various road surfaces, improving stability and safety.
4. **ABS Pro**: The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Pro enhances braking performance by dynamically adjusting brake pressure to prevent wheel lockup during heavy braking or emergency stops, even when cornering.
5. **Riding Modes**: BMW offers various riding modes through ConnectedRide, such as Rain, Road, and Dynamic, which adapt the motorcycle's performance characteristics to different riding conditions and rider preferences, enhancing safety and control.
6. **Hill Start Control**: This feature assists riders when starting on an incline by preventing the motorcycle from rolling backward, making it easier to pull away safely on hills.
7. **Distance Control**: Some BMW motorcycles with ConnectedRide have adaptive cruise control, automatically adjusting the following distance to the vehicle ahead, maintaining a safe gap while cruising on the highway.
8. **Collision Warning**: Advanced sensors and radar systems can detect potential collisions and warn the rider, helping to prevent accidents or reduce their severity.
9. **Intuitive Interface**: BMW ConnectedRide incorporates a user-friendly interface, allowing riders to access and control these features conveniently, ensuring minimal distractions and enhanced safety.
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