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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/
Sinking Lego Ships
Many childhood hours were spent at the bivouac playing and pushing the imagination with Lego. There was learning about modular design and how failure leads to success. All that creative activity made me a better designer and person.
Many childhood hours were joyfully spent at the bivouac, building, imagining, and experimenting with LEGO. It was more than play—it was an early education in modular design, problem-solving, and the value of persistence. Every structure that collapsed or didn’t quite work was a lesson in how failure fuels creativity and growth. Those hands-on exploration sessions helped shape not only a better designer but also a more curious and resilient person. Looking back, it's clear that those colorful bricks laid more than models—they laid a foundation for lifelong learning and creative thinking.
With the inclusion of specialized kit components like gears, chain drives, tubes, girders, motors, switches, and electrical systems, today's LEGO Technic builders have an incredible array of tools to bring complex creations to life. These advanced elements not only expand creative possibilities but also offer hands-on lessons in engineering and physics. In another engaging video from Brick Technology, viewers can explore concepts such as displacement, wave theory, tensional force, and centrifugal force—all demonstrated through the imaginative and educational world of LEGO Technic. It's a brilliant fusion of play and learning that continues to inspire the next generation of inventors and problem-solvers.
Generative AI and Stereotypes
Creatives have always needed to understand the strengths and weaknesses of their tools and how they can shape our craft. As more creatives find their way into generative AI, we must be mindful of the bias and averaging that can appear in our work due to the data used by generative AI tools.
Creatives have always thrived by understanding the capabilities and limitations of their tools—how each one shapes the process, the outcome, and the message they convey. As generative AI becomes a more prominent part of the creative toolkit, it's essential to approach it with the same critical awareness.
These systems are trained on vast datasets that reflect existing patterns, norms, and biases. As a result, there is a tendency toward averaging, favoring the familiar or statistically common, which can potentially dilute originality or reinforce stereotypes. For creatives, this means not only leveraging AI for inspiration and efficiency but also actively pushing against its boundaries, questioning its outputs, and using it as a springboard for more intentional, authentic expression.
Rest of World published an excellent article about how generative AI tools propagate stereotypes. They analyzed 3,000 AI-generated images to examine how image generators represent different countries and cultures. Key takeaways include the following insights:.
The need for data transparency.
There is a need for AI companies to become more transparent with the data that they use.
Bias exists in generative AI algorithms.
Bias occurs in many algorithms and AI systems, from sexist and racist search results to facial recognition systems that perform worse on Black faces. Generative AI systems are no different. In an analysis of more than 5,000 AI images, Bloomberg found that images associated with higher-paying job titles featured people with lighter skin tones and that results for most professional roles were male-dominated.
Generative AI has an upside for marginalized groups, but also carries risks.
Generative AI could help improve diversity in media by making creative tools more accessible to marginalized groups or those lacking the resources to produce messages at scale. But used unwisely, it risks silencing those same groups.
Associative aspects of generative AI can lead to overly average results that are biased.
" These models are purely associative machines,” Pruthi said. He gave the example of a football: An AI system may learn to associate footballs with a green field and so produce images of footballs on grass. In many cases, this results in a more accurate or relevant picture. But you're out of luck if you don’t want an “average” image. “It’s kind of the reason why these systems are so good, but also their Achilles’ heel,” - Sasha Luccioni, researcher in ethical and sustainable AI at Hugging Face.
Take a closer look at the article at restofworld.org.
Kai Lenny Captures the Mouth of Jaws
There have been some fantastic surfing films over the years. Still, this POV footage from professional water athlete Kai Lenny of the North Shore of Maui captures the remarkable power of nature in a way few will experience.
Over the years, there have been countless incredible surfing films, but few capture the raw power and beauty of the ocean like this POV footage from professional waterman Kai Lenny. Filmed on the legendary North Shore of Maui, the video offers a rare, first-person perspective of the immense energy and unpredictability of the waves. It’s not just a surf clip—it’s an immersive experience that brings viewers as close as possible to the thrilling, often chaotic dance between athlete and ocean. Through Lenny’s lens, the awe-inspiring force of nature becomes deeply personal, offering a glimpse into a world few will ever experience firsthand.
In addition to the incredible power of nature captured in this remarkable footage, it is fantastic to see just how capable Kai Lenny is when navigating the big waves. His strength and agility are seen once he catches them. As the stakes increase with professional sports, technology evolves to help manage risk. The unsung heroes on jet skis, the setup for pulling athletes away from trouble, and the big wave inflatable vests that they can turn to in a last resort are all a testament to the sport, adding forms of safety assistance even while not all risks can be mitigated. Continued technological developments capable of capturing the remarkable exploits of athletes like Kai with unmatched clarity are equally inspiring.
Related Links:
Big Wave Surfing Surfing Vest Guide: www.bigwavesurfing.com
Kai Lenny’s YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@KaiLenny98
AI: Suiting Up With Midjourney
Designbivouac is experimenting with the integration of AI into the creative process. This post focuses on a beginner’s exploration into the potential of AI as an aid in visualization. It is a study in prompting and editing.
Designbivouac is experimenting with the integration of AI into the creative process. It is a study in prompting and editing. Many creatives have mentioned that they treat Midjourney like an intern. Over the years, I have seen many interns produce invaluable work, primarily when they are well-mentored and treated with patience and respect. Thus, there are high hopes for Midjourney and various other AI visualization offerings. It's hard to believe we are just getting started.
The session began with the prompt: a space suit with textures and white metal plating, dark visors, lights, valves, and a photorealistic, futuristic aesthetic. Rendering time was about 35 seconds.
The image in the lower right was selected for further evolution.
Variations were run as a single pass. The variation in the upper right was selected for refinement based upon the revised visor shape and details on the upper rear of the helmet.
The abdominal region was selected for focused variational refinement.
Ultimately the original abdominal visuals were chosen.
Final version zoomed out 2x. This version proved ideal for the next bivouac mission.
I look forward to the day when these tools can function even further with voice input, and regions from one image can be swapped with those from another. Perhaps that is already possible. We could be much closer to interactions like those visualized in Bladerunner during the photo enhancement scene. Enhance!
Below is a gallery of other early designbivouac Midjouney visualizations.
More Than Meets The Rye
In the world of modern agriculture, efficiency and productivity are paramount. Farmers are constantly looking for innovative equipment to help them maximize their yields while minimizing their environmental impact.
The John Deere X9 Combine represents a remarkable leap forward in farming equipment. Its exceptional capacity, advanced technology, and focus on efficiency make it a game-changer for modern agriculture.
According to a new United Nations report, the world's population of 7.6 billion is expected to reach 8.6 billion in 2030, 9.8 billion in 2050, and 11.2 billion in 2100. That leaves a lot of chaff to sort through to feed the masses. As farmers face the challenges of feeding a growing global population, tools like the X9 are essential in ensuring that agriculture remains sustainable, productive, and environmentally responsible.
With the X9 Combine, John Deere has again demonstrated its commitment to innovation and helping farmers succeed in an ever-evolving industry. Take a closer look at the nicely visualized video below to gain a better understanding of all that the X9. Combine is capable of. Below are some key features and benefits that the X9 offers to farmers.
Features and Benefits
Key Features of the John Deere X9 Combine
Exceptional Capacity: The X9 Combine is designed to handle large-scale farming operations. Its massive grain tank can hold up to 1,200 bushels, which means less time spent unloading and more time harvesting. This increased capacity allows farmers to cover more ground in a day.
Powerful Engine: Equipped with a robust engine, the X9 delivers the power needed to tackle tough crops and challenging conditions. It provides consistent and reliable performance, even in demanding situations.
Advanced Harvesting Technology: The X9 has the latest harvesting technology, including the Combine Advisor™ system. This system optimizes the combine's settings in real-time, ensuring that the machine operates at peak efficiency, regardless of crop conditions.
Improved Grain Quality: The X9 features the ActiveVision™ camera system, providing a real-time grain-quality view. This allows farmers to make instant adjustments to reduce grain loss and improve overall crop quality.
Comfortable Cab: Farming is hard work, and the X9's spacious and ergonomically designed cab offers exceptional comfort for operators during long hours in the field. The CommandCenter™ display provides intuitive control over the combine's functions.
Reduced Environmental Impact: Efficiency benefits farmers and the environment. The X9's advanced technology helps reduce fuel consumption and emissions, making it a more sustainable choice for modern farming.
Benefits for Farmers
Increased Productivity: With its impressive capacity and cutting-edge technology, the X9 Combine allows farmers to harvest more acres in less time. This increased efficiency can significantly boost overall productivity.
Greater Precision: The X9's advanced technology ensures that every pass through the field is optimized for maximum yield. This precision helps farmers make the most of their resources and reduce waste.
Cost Savings: While the initial investment in the X9 may be substantial, its efficiency and reduced maintenance requirements can lead to long-term savings for farmers.
Sustainability: Using less fuel and reducing grain loss, the X9 helps farmers operate more environmentally responsible, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable agriculture.
AI-enhanced article
The Unreal Work of William Faucher
This process video by William Faucher does an excellent job of capturing the process of photogrammetry and applying remarkable digital visualization skills to capture a scene inspired by Norwegian fishing villages.
This process video by William Faucher does an excellent job of capturing the process of photogrammetry and applying remarkable digital visualization skills to capture a scene inspired by Norwegian fishing villages. This current generation of visualization tools is powerful, but, in the end, the artist must, as always, master the medium that makes the work remarkable.
Photogrammetry is a sophisticated technique that involves the process of extracting precise three-dimensional information about objects, structures, or landscapes from two-dimensional photographs or images. It is widely used in various fields, including surveying, cartography, archeology, and remote sensing. Photogrammetry relies on the principles of geometry and trigonometry to determine the spatial relationships and measurements of objects within the images. Modern photogrammetry often combines traditional methods with advanced software and technology, including aerial and satellite imagery, to create highly detailed and accurate 3D models or maps. This technology has numerous applications, such as creating topographic maps, reconstructing accident scenes, and even producing 3D models of cultural heritage sites, making it an invaluable tool in a variety of industries.
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Flying Through Giga Berlin
Take a dynamic fly-through of Tesla’s Giga Berlin factory. It is remarkable to see all that goes into making some of today’s most advanced vehicles at one of the most impressive factories in the world.
Take a dynamic fly-through of Tesla’s Giga Berlin—a striking showcase of cutting-edge manufacturing in motion. From the moment you enter, you're immersed in a meticulously choreographed ecosystem where robotic arms, automated conveyors, and human technicians work in seamless harmony. It's remarkable to witness the scale, precision, and innovation that power one of the world’s most advanced vehicle production facilities.
Every stage of the process, from gigacasting massive body components to battery pack integration and final assembly, reflects Tesla’s drive toward efficiency, speed, and sustainability. Giga Berlin isn’t just a factory—it’s a glimpse into the future of industrial automation and a testament to what's required to bring today’s most modern electric vehicles to life. Giga Berlin is designed to be an advanced electric vehicle (EV) production hub capable of producing a wide range of Tesla vehicles, including the Model 3, Model Y, and future models.
The factory is expected to incorporate cutting-edge manufacturing techniques and technologies, with a strong focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has emphasized that the facility will include many innovations, particularly in battery and powertrain technology. One notable aspect of Giga Berlin is its commitment to environmental sustainability. The facility was designed with a strong emphasis on renewable energy sources, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint significantly. Tesla intends to make the factory a green and environmentally responsible operation, aligning with its broader goal of advancing sustainable transportation.
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Uplifting Transparency
The folks at hazegrayart have done a remarkable job of visualizing four famous rockets in a way that shows their fuel stages as being transparent.
The folks at Hazegrayart have done a remarkable job of visualizing four famous rockets in a way that shows their fuel stages as being transparent. This allows for a whole new perspective on staged launches and just what is happening with rocket systems we have seen in action over the decades of the space age.
The four launch sequences of different rockets are set against the audio track of the Apollo 11 launch. It is fantastic to see the varied quantities and fuel burn rates. Also instructive is the relatively coordinated timing of transitional states encountered by the spacecraft. Thanks for bringing some new clarity to how these remarkable systems work.
Visualizing Movements
The creator of animgraffs, Jake O’Neal, has created a remarkable animation to clearly explain how mechanical watch movements functions.
The creator of Animgraffs, Jake O’Neal, has created an informative animation conveying how mechanical watch movements work. The visualization makes clear how each component works, how it is supported mechanically, and why jewels are used, somewhat poetically, within these mechanical masterpieces. Often taken for granted today, watches remain tiny miracles of engineering. Wind with care.
Visual History of the iPhone
Well, it’s that time of year again—the second week of September. And, true to form, Apple has revealed the iPhone 13 in a special event. As the company continues advancing its iPhone offering, perhaps some of you feel nostalgic about your older iPhones.
Ah, Fall. A crispness in the air. Colorful leaves in the trees. And, yes, the launch of a new Apple iPhone. As the company continues advancing its iPhone offering, perhaps some feel nostalgia for older iPhones. Since models are revised yearly like clockwork, recalling the complete iPhone lineage can also be challenging. Thankfully, the folks at Apple Explained have captured this lineage up to a point in a crisp, well-designed video. It is great to see the evolution so beautifully represented.
Captured In Stone
It is a beautiful documentary piece by Eyes and Ears that masterfully captures what it means to be a sculptor. The courage, intuition, methodic attention to detail, planning, and patience all come through in this short film. Well done, Anna Rubincam.
This beautiful documentary by Eyes and Ears masterfully captures what it means to be a sculptor. The courage, intuition, methodic attention to detail, planning, and patience all come through in this short film. Well done, Anna Rubincam. May you inspire a new generation of stone carvers.
Rubincam, who trained at Weymouth College and City and Guilds of London Art School, is a qualified stonemason, letter cutter, sculptor, and stone carver. With over a decade in the stone industry, Anna has worked on projects in the UK, France, and Italy. For more about her work, visit: www.annarubincam.com
Things Come Apart
Many things fell apart in 2020, and it proved to be a time for many to deconstruct the reality of life as we knew it. Many took the year as a prompt to look at things differently. Todd McLellan does just that through his meticulous work Things Come Apart.
"Things Come Apart" is a fascinating book that offers readers a unique perspective on everyday objects. Authored by Todd McLellan, a talented photographer and designer, the book takes a deep dive into the inner workings of everyday items, meticulously disassembling them and arranging the components into visually striking, intricate compositions.
Through this artful deconstruction, "Things Come Apart" invites readers to appreciate the beauty and complexity often hidden within the objects we use daily. Whether it's a vintage typewriter, a modern smartphone, or a classic camera, McLellan's stunning photographs showcase the precision, engineering, and craftsmanship behind these items. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the book also encourages contemplation about the evolution of technology and design, offering a thought-provoking exploration of how things come together and, inevitably, how they come apart. It's a visual celebration of the artistry that underpins our material world, encouraging us to see the beauty in the details that often go unnoticed.
For more perspectives, that might help as you design. Take a look at other bivouac-recommended readings.
Note: As an Amazon Associate, designbivouac may benefit/earn from qualifying purchases.
What Lies Beneath
Often, when the details of how structures are made can be seen, they become more impressive. Such is the case with large windmills anchored to solid ground.
Many products surround us in our day-to-day lives that require deep engineering excellence to come to fruition. Often, when the details of how structures are made can be seen, they become more impressive. Such is the case with large windmills anchored to solid ground. When you look beneath the surface, it is impressive to see how the Peikko Group provides deep anchoring for these mammoth structures.
Peikko Group's Rock Foundation system for onshore wind turbines is a revolutionary and sustainable solution that addresses the challenges of wind turbine foundation construction. The Rock Foundation system primarily consists of precast concrete elements that can be assembled on-site with ease. It takes advantage of Peikko's proprietary technology, which enables using local materials, significantly reducing transportation costs and emissions. This approach enhances the sustainability of wind energy projects by minimizing the carbon impact associated with the foundation's construction process. One of the key benefits of Peikko's Rock Foundation system is its adaptability to a wide range of soil conditions. By offering a versatile solution for various geological settings, it streamlines the installation process, reducing the need for extensive ground preparation and site-specific engineering. Peikko Group's Rock Foundation technology not only accelerates the installation of wind turbines but also contributes to a more sustainable and cost-effective approach in the renewable energy industry.
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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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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!
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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Land Rover Evoque Photo Shoot
Land Rover recently refined the all-new Evoque to align with the marque’s new design language. To celebrate the creative activity of refining a point of view, Land Rover commissioned several photographers (including San Francisaco’s own Nikk La) to capture new perspectives on the cities they love, and the Evoque came along for the ride. Check out the series via Cool Hunting.
Land Rover recently refined the all-new Evoque to align with the marque’s new design language. To celebrate the creative activity of refining a point of view, Land Rover commissioned several photographers (including San Francisco’s own Nikk La) to capture new perspectives on the cities they love, and the Evoque came along for the ride. Check out the series via Cool Hunting.
Ground Control to Major Tom
Ever wonder what it was like to ride aboard a mighty Saturn V rocket? Well, with Reentry: An Orbital Simulator, you can now take on the role of a mission commander and master the procedures followed by those who pioneered spaceflight.
Reentry: An Orbital Simulator is a captivating and immersive video game that allows players to experience the intricate challenges of guiding a spacecraft through Earth's atmosphere and safely landing it. This simulator provides a realistic and educational environment where players can test their skills in controlling spacecraft during the crucial phase of reentry and landing.
The game places a strong emphasis on physics and accuracy, making it a valuable tool for both space enthusiasts and budding aerospace engineers. Players can gain insights into the complexities of reentry, orbital mechanics, and the precise timing required for a successful landing. Reentry: An Orbital Simulator not only offers a thrilling gaming experience but also serves as an engaging educational platform for understanding the intricacies of space travel and reentry.
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