AllYouCanTech

Rising Friction Between SpaceX and the FAA Regarding Regulatory Conflicts

### The Heightened Struggles Between SpaceX and the FAA: A Confrontation Over Progress and Oversight

The persistent friction between SpaceX and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has escalated, with Elon Musk, founder and CEO of SpaceX, demanding the resignation of FAA administrator Michael Whitaker. This contention arises from regulatory setbacks, fines, and safety assessments that have considerably affected SpaceX’s ambitious Starship initiative. The tension underscores the overarching difficulties in reconciling rapid advancements in the commercial space sector with regulatory measures intended to safeguard public welfare and environmental integrity.

#### The Starship Chronicles: Setbacks and Regulatory Obstacles

Central to the discord is SpaceX’s Starship initiative, aimed at transforming space exploration with a completely reusable spacecraft designed to transport humans to Mars. The impending test flight of Starship, which will mark its fifth full-scale launch, has been postponed due to the FAA’s ongoing evaluations. The agency has communicated that it will not decide whether to grant a launch license for SpaceX’s forthcoming Starship test flight until late November 2024, a delay of two months longer than originally anticipated.

The FAA is currently assessing modifications to Starship’s flight path, particularly regarding the return of the Super Heavy booster to the launch pad in South Texas. This will mark SpaceX’s initial attempt to land the colossal booster back at the launch site, a move that could drastically lower the costs of space travel by allowing the rocket to be fully reusable.

Nonetheless, SpaceX is becoming increasingly irritated by the delays. The company has recently assembled the entire Starship rocket at its Starbase facility close to Brownsville, Texas, and announced it as “ready for launch, pending regulatory approval.” Musk and his team contend that the FAA’s delays are not motivated by safety issues but are rather influenced by what they describe as “unnecessary environmental assessments.”

#### Fines and Alleged Infractions

Alongside the delays, the FAA has suggested over $633,000 in fines against SpaceX for purported violations of its launch license during two Falcon 9 rocket flights from Florida. Such fines are uncommon in the commercial spaceflight sector and have further complicated the relationship between SpaceX and the FAA.

During a congressional hearing, FAA administrator Michael Whitaker defended the agency’s actions, asserting that safety is the FAA’s highest priority. “I believe safety is in the public interest, and that’s our main focus,” Whitaker stated. He pointed out that the fines are among the limited tools the FAA has to guarantee compliance with safety protocols.

However, SpaceX contests the FAA’s assertions, claiming the fines are based on misconceptions and administrative issues instead of genuine safety infractions. For instance, one of the fines pertains to the relocation of a fuel farm at SpaceX’s launch pad at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. The FAA asserts that SpaceX moved the fuel farm closer to populated zones without conducting an adequate risk evaluation. Conversely, SpaceX argues that the fuel farm was moved further from publicly accessible regions and that the adjustment received approval from range safety authorities in Florida.

#### Environmental Issues and Water Discharge Conflicts

Another area of disagreement between SpaceX and federal regulators revolves around environmental concerns tied to the Starship launch pad in Texas. The FAA is collaborating with various agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), regarding SpaceX’s water discharge into the environment surrounding the launch site.

Following significant damage to the launch pad caused by the rocket’s initial test flight, SpaceX installed a water-cooled flame deflector beneath the Starship launch mount, which excavated a large hole. The water system is intended to cool the flame during rocket liftoff, but it has drawn scrutiny from environmental regulators. SpaceX has faced fines from both the TCEQ and the EPA concerning issues related to the water system, although the company maintains that these penalties stem from administrative disputes rather than actual environmental detriment.

Gwynne Shotwell, SpaceX’s president and chief operating officer, addressed the situation in a hearing with Texas lawmakers, indicating that the water system was licensed and permitted by the TCEQ. However, the EPA later intervened, seeking to convert the state permit into a federal one. “We collaborate closely with organizations like TCEQ,” Shotwell remarked, downplaying the importance of the fines and regulatory disagreements.

#### The Broader Discourse: Progress vs. Oversight

The clash between SpaceX and the FAA reflects a larger discourse regarding the function of regulation in the swiftly advancing commercial space industry. SpaceX has played a crucial role in propelling the industry’s expansion, launching rockets at a remarkable frequency—its Falcon 9 rocket averages a launch every three days. Nevertheless, the company asserts that the FAA’s regulatory structure has not adapted to the pace of innovation.

During the congressional hearing, Rep. Kevin Kiley (R

“StarCraft and StarCraft II Now Accessible on PC Game Pass”

# StarCraft and StarCraft II Set to Join PC Game Pass: A Fresh Chapter for RTS Enthusiasts

In an exciting revelation during the Tokyo Game Show, Microsoft disclosed that two of the most legendary real-time strategy (RTS) titles ever—**StarCraft** and **StarCraft II**—are on their way to **PC Game Pass**. This development introduces these cherished RTS classics to a new wave of players, while offering devoted fans a chance to revisit the monumental campaigns and expansions through Microsoft’s subscription model.

## What’s Arriving on Game Pass?

Although **StarCraft** and **StarCraft II** have been accessible for free multiplayer experiences on PC for a while, their inclusion in Game Pass will grant subscribers access to their **single-player campaigns** and **expansions**. This is a notable advancement, as the single-player features in both games are celebrated as some of the finest in the RTS realm.

Here’s what subscribers can anticipate on Game Pass:

1. **StarCraft Remastered**: This is the 2017 updated edition of the classic **StarCraft** (1998), featuring enhanced graphics, refined audio, and contemporary functionalities while keeping the foundational gameplay that solidified its status as a timeless classic.

2. **StarCraft II Campaign Collection**: This package encompasses all 70+ single-player missions from **StarCraft II**’s trio of expansions—**Wings of Liberty**, **Heart of the Swarm**, and **Legacy of the Void**—alongside the **Nova Covert Ops** mission expansion. These narratives present a rich and engaging storyline, with diverse and intricate missions that have captivated gamers for countless years.

The games are set to debut on **PC Game Pass** and **Game Pass Ultimate** on **November 5**, granting subscribers access to the entire **StarCraft** universe.

## A Sentimental Journey for RTS Enthusiasts

For countless players, **StarCraft** and **StarCraft II** epitomize the apex of real-time strategy gaming. The original **StarCraft**, launched in 1998, was a revolutionary game that established the benchmark for the genre, with its complex equilibrium among three unique factions—**Terran**, **Zerg**, and **Protoss**—and its compelling single-player narrative. The game swiftly morphed into a cultural sensation, particularly in South Korea, where it played a pivotal role in the formation of esports on a global scale.

**StarCraft II**, which debuted in 2010, elaborated on its forerunner’s achievements with upgraded graphics, new gaming mechanics, and an even grander narrative. Its expansions—**Heart of the Swarm** (2013), **Legacy of the Void** (2015), and the **Nova Covert Ops** mission pack (2016)—further enriched the universe and polished the gameplay, making **StarCraft II** one of the most revered RTS titles ever.

While both games’ multiplayer components have stayed free-to-play, the addition of the single-player campaigns to Game Pass allows a new batch of players to dive into the epic narratives and strategic intricacies that established these games as legends.

## Phil Spencer’s Tokyo Game Show Briefing

This announcement was made during a short video message from **Phil Spencer**, head of Xbox, at the Tokyo Game Show. Sporting a **StarCraft** T-shirt, Spencer sparked intrigue about potential new **StarCraft** content, though the principal focus remained on the games’ addition to Game Pass.

While some fans might have anticipated news regarding a new **StarCraft** installment—especially considering it’s been over ten years since **StarCraft II**’s launch—this development is still a meaningful progression for the franchise. By bringing the games to Game Pass, Microsoft is making sure that **StarCraft** remains within reach for both seasoned players and newcomers alike.

## A Broader Audience for StarCraft

One of the most thrilling elements of this announcement is the opportunity for **StarCraft** and **StarCraft II** to connect with a wider audience. Numerous younger gamers may not have experienced these titles when they initially launched, either due to being too young or concentrating on different genres. With the games now part of Game Pass, a fresh generation of players will have the chance to enjoy the strategic excellence of **StarCraft**.

Additionally, the integration of **StarCraft** into Game Pass could help reignite enthusiasm for the RTS genre, which has seen a dip in mainstream appeal in recent years. Although titles like **Age of Empires IV** and **Company of Heroes 3** have sustained the genre’s presence, the introduction of **StarCraft** to Game Pass might encourage more developers to delve into RTS games and introduce new innovations to this captivating genre.

## Blizzard Titles on Game Pass: An Expanding Movement

This isn’t the first occasion that **Blizzard** games have found their way to Game Pass following **Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision-Blizzard**. Earlier in 2024,

Intel Releases Conclusive Microcode Update to Fix Crashes in Premium Desktop CPUs

### Intel Unveils Ultimate Solution for 13th and 14th Gen Core CPU Crashes and Unreliability

Intel has been dealing with a major challenge throughout 2024, as users of its premium 13th- and 14th-generation Core desktop CPUs have reported system crashes and instability. Following an extensive investigation over several months, Intel has now introduced what it asserts to be the ultimate solution for these issues, impacting a broad spectrum of its processors, such as the Core i5, i7, and i9 K, KF, and KS-series variants.

#### The Challenge: A Collection of Complications

The stability problems first emerged earlier this year, with users experiencing recurrent crashes and diminished performance. By April, Intel commenced probing the underlying causes of these challenges, initially indicating that motherboard manufacturers bore some responsibility. A number of motherboards were set up with power configurations that surpassed Intel’s standard specifications, which may have played a part in the instability.

Throughout the summer months, Intel made considerable headway in pinpointing the fundamental issues. The company issued a microcode update aimed at resolving one of the concerns, specifically the CPUs making “elevated voltage requests.” This situation could result in performance decline, instability, and potential long-term hardware harm. BIOS updates from both Intel and motherboard manufacturers were launched to rectify the errant power settings and voltage problems.

However, Intel persisted in its investigations, and by August, further bugs were discovered that added to the complications. These included:

1. **Excessive motherboard defaults**: Certain motherboards had power settings that went beyond Intel’s guidelines.
2. **Thermal downshifting glitch**: Some CPUs failed to downshift appropriately when overheating, resulting in excessive heat and instability.
3. **Prolonged voltage glitch**: CPUs were receiving excessive voltage over extended durations, which could impair their performance over time.
4. **Idle voltage glitch**: CPUs were supplied with surplus voltage even while idle, potentially leading to ongoing damage.

#### The Ultimate Solution: Microcode Update 0x12B

The final element of the resolution has been tackled with the launch of the 0x12B microcode update. This update encompasses fixes for all four identified issues. The update will be facilitated through new BIOS updates from motherboard manufacturers and PC providers, and Intel recommends users to apply these updates promptly upon release.

While the microcode update aims to avert future damage, it cannot reverse effects on CPUs already impacted by voltage and thermal complications. If users are currently encountering crashes or instability, it may signify prior damage to their CPU.

#### Impacted Processors

The bugs mainly concern Intel’s upper-tier processors, including:

– **K, KF, and KS-series Core i5, i7, and i9 processors** from the 13th and 14th generations.
– **Non-K-series Core i7 and i9 processors** within the same generations.

Lower-tier Core i5 and i3 CPUs, along with 12th-generation processors, remain unaffected by these issues.

#### Intel Extends Warranty Periods

Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Intel has extended the warranties on all affected processors from three years to five years. This warranty extension applies to both current owners and new purchasers of the implicated CPUs. Should your CPU have suffered damage due to these issues, the extended warranty should cover any required replacements or repairs.

#### Performance Consideration

Intel has assured users that the microcode updates have a minimal effect on performance. Although some early fixes resulted in slight slowdowns in select scenarios, the company has endeavored to mitigate any performance loss with the final update.

#### Future Outlook: Arrow Lake Processors

As Intel addresses the issues concerning its 13th and 14th-generation Core processors, focus is now shifting towards the forthcoming Arrow Lake desktop processors. Speculation indicates that these processors will be released shortly and are anticipated to be produced by TSMC, mirroring the approach taken with Intel’s Lunar Lake laptop processors. The Arrow Lake CPUs will likely incorporate Intel’s new “Core” and “Core Ultra” branding, moving away from the previous generational labels.

Crucially, Intel has confirmed that the Arrow Lake processors will not succumb to the voltage and stability issues that have beleaguered the 13th and 14th-generation chips.

#### Summary

Intel’s ultimate resolution for the crashes and instability affecting its 13th and 14th-generation Core processors signifies the conclusion of a challenging chapter for the company. While the microcode updates are intended to prevent any further harm, users who have already faced issues may need to utilize Intel’s extended warranty. Looking forward, Intel’s forthcoming Arrow Lake processors promise a clean slate, unencumbered by the voltage and stability complications that have caused significant disruption in 2024.

As always, users are encouraged to keep their BIOS and firmware updated.

Pirate Library Directed to Compensate Publishers $30M, Identity of Operators Still Unrevealed

# US Court Imposes $30 Million Penalty and Comprehensive Injunction on Libgen: Is Its Demise Finally Imminent?

On Thursday, a pivotal event transpired in the ongoing conflict between textbook publishers and the infamous shadow library, **Library Genesis (Libgen)**. A US district court judge, Colleen McMahon, rendered what is being hailed as one of the most extensive anti-piracy injunctions ever issued by a US court. The decision followed accusations of **willful copyright infringement** against Libgen by several prominent textbook publishers, known for its facilitation of free access to copyrighted texts and scholarly articles.

## The Court’s Ruling: A $30 Million Penalty

Judge McMahon’s determination mandated that Libgen pay **$30 million** in damages to the copyright holders. However, the prospect of publishers ever collecting this amount is doubtful. Libgen’s administrators remain **anonymous** and **elusive**, rendering the enforcement of the penalty nearly unfeasible. This is not the first occasion Libgen has encountered such fines. In 2017, the site was directed to pay **$15 million** to another consortium of publishers, a penalty which remains unpaid.

In light of Libgen’s history of evading legal repercussions, McMahon issued an **extraordinarily broad injunction**. This injunction forbids not only Libgen from disseminating copyrighted materials but also extends to anyone “in active concert or participation” with the platform. This encompasses **hosting services**, **domain registrars**, **cloud storage services**, and even **advertising platforms**. The ruling further prohibits the usage of tools or browser extensions that connect to Libgen, establishing one of the most comprehensive anti-piracy measures to date.

## The Difficulty of Eradicating Libgen

Yet, despite the extensive nature of the injunction, the lingering question is: **Is it possible to actually dismantle Libgen?**

Libgen has long posed a challenge to publishers by providing unrestricted access to millions of books and academic works. The platform is fully aware of its legal standing, openly informing users that employing its services infringes copyright laws. In a 2023 video, Libgen remarked, “It is illegal to download (‘make copies of’) material that is protected by copyright. However, all that is illegal is not criminal.” The platform has historically capitalized on the reality that most users encounter **minimal legal risks** for downloading pirated material.

Libgen’s endurance is largely attributed to its **decentralized nature** and the **anonymity** of its operators. The site functions through a network of **volunteers** who upload content and share torrents, complicating efforts by authorities to identify a singular responsible party. This decentralized framework has permitted Libgen to withstand various legal challenges over the years.

### Initial Effects of the Injunction

As of Thursday, some of Libgen’s links were reported as **inaccessible**, with users experiencing **403 errors** or timeouts. Nonetheless, the bulk of the platform’s links, including its **primary domain**, remained operational. This partial restriction might be because the court’s ruling is still in its preliminary phases. Judge McMahon granted domain registrars **21 business days** to either transfer control of Libgen’s domains to the publishers or initiate technical measures to suspend or terminate the domains.

While some links have been impacted, the platform’s **core architecture** remains intact. This isn’t surprising, given that Libgen has a robust history of **dodging takedowns** by switching to new domains or utilizing **mirror sites**. The platform’s administrators have demonstrated a knack for staying ahead of legal entities, complicating the complete eradication of the site.

## The Importance of Advertising for Libgen’s Continuation

A critical element of the court’s decision is the **prohibition on providing advertising services** to Libgen. In recent years, the platform has heavily depended on **Google advertising** to support its activities. In a 2023 video, Libgen cautioned users that while its administrators are hard to identify, “Google gets informed of every download, and if a user has ever registered with Google, then Google knows exactly who they are, what they’ve downloaded, and when they downloaded it.”

If Google and other advertising companies adhere to the court’s ruling and sever Libgen’s **ad revenue**, the site could confront considerable financial challenges. Without a consistent income stream, maintaining servers and continuing operations at present capacity could become increasingly difficult for Libgen.

## Can Domain Management Halt Libgen?

The injunction also addresses **domain registration**, directing that any newly registered domains affiliated with Libgen be relinquished to the publishers. This might hinder Libgen’s efficient tactic of **continuously shifting to new domains** to dodge takedowns.

Historically, Libgen has managed to remain online by swiftly registering new domains whenever one is taken down. By focusing on future domain registrations,

“The Last of Us Season 2 Teaser: What Audiences Should Anticipate and Why It Could Take Them by Surprise”

# The Last of Us Season 2: Anticipations for the Highly Awaited Comeback

The post-apocalyptic universe of *The Last of Us* is poised to re-emerge on HBO with its second season, and enthusiasts of both the video game and the television adaptation are keenly looking forward to what is expected to be another impactful and intense adventure. The first comprehensive trailer for *The Last of Us* Season 2 has just been unveiled, providing a sneak peek into the next chapter of Joel and Ellie’s saga, five years after the conclusion of Season 1.

## Reconnecting with Joel and Ellie

The trailer reintroduces the two main characters, Joel (portrayed by Pedro Pascal) and Ellie (portrayed by Bella Ramsey), who have been enjoying a semblance of peace for five years following the dramatic end of the first season. However, as the trailer suggests, their history is about to resurface, and the reality they’ve presumed to have escaped is now more perilous and unpredictable than ever.

### HBO’s Synopsis

HBO has shared a brief synopsis for the season, which states:

> “After five years of tranquility following the events of the first season, Joel and Ellie’s shared history confronts them, pulling them into conflict with one another and a world even more treacherous and volatile than the one they thought they had left behind.”

This succinct summary alludes to the emotional and physical trials ahead for the duo, highlighting their evolving relationship and the external dangers that will challenge their connection.

## New and Returning Cast Members

Alongside Joel and Ellie, the trailer showcases several new characters and reaffirms the return of familiar faces. Jeffrey Wright, famous for his performances in *Westworld* and *American Fiction*, will reprise his role as Isaac, a character from the *The Last of Us: Part II* video game. Meanwhile, Kaitlyn Dever (*Booksmart*, *Justified*) will portray Abby, a crucial character in the sequel who plays an important part in the game’s storyline.

Abby’s introduction is particularly significant, as her character is central to the events of *The Last of Us: Part II*. Game fans will recognize her as a figure who introduces a complex layer to the narrative, and her presence is expected to evoke strong feelings among viewers, just as it did within the gaming community.

## Adapting *The Last of Us: Part II*

Just as Season 1 of the series faithfully adapted the narrative of the original *The Last of Us* game, Season 2 will follow the storyline of *The Last of Us: Part II*, which premiered in 2020. The second game is renowned for its darker, more intricate narrative, and it generated considerable debate and controversy among fans due to its daring storytelling choices.

For those who have solely engaged with the TV series and lack familiarity with the game’s sequel, it’s vital to prepare for a significantly bleaker and emotionally taxing experience. *The Last of Us: Part II* explores themes of vengeance, grief, and the cyclical nature of violence, and it does not hesitate to make difficult, occasionally shocking, narrative choices.

### A Caution for Non-Gamers

While the first season of the series was already profoundly emotional, players of *The Last of Us: Part II* understand that the upcoming season will likely delve into an even darker territory. The game’s narrative is polarizing, with some fans commending its audacity and others denouncing its grimness. Non-gamer TV viewers may not be fully ready for the emotional upheaval that lies ahead, but the show’s creators have demonstrated their capability to approach complex themes with finesse.

## When to Expect Season 2?

Despite the trailer stirring excitement, enthusiasts must exercise patience before they can re-enter the world of *The Last of Us*. The second season is currently projected to premiere in 2025, although a specific release date has yet to be disclosed. Nevertheless, HBO content chief Casey Bloys recently teased that the network aims to have the season air in alignment with the next Emmy Awards, suggesting that the series might debut in the first half of 2025.

## What Awaits Us

With the resurgence of Joel and Ellie, the introduction of pivotal new characters like Abby, and the promise of a darker, more intricate storyline, *The Last of Us* Season 2 is gearing up to be one of the most eagerly awaited television events of 2025. Fans of both the game and the show are anxious to witness how the adaptation of *The Last of Us: Part II* transpires on screen, and whether the series will remain faithful to the game’s controversial yet captivating narrative.

As we look forward to further updates and the eventual premiere, one thing is clear: the post-apocalyptic realm of *The Last of Us* is far from finished, and the emotional stakes are set to reach new heights.

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*Image courtesy

EV Sales Maintain Robust Expansion Despite Adverse Online Sentiment

# The Landscape of Electric Vehicle Sales in 2024: A Combination of Progress and Obstacles

The electric vehicle (EV) sector in the United States continues to transform, with battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) representing 8 percent of new vehicle sales in June and July 2024, as per projections from S&P Global Mobility. While this marks a favorable development, the growth rate has moderated when compared to the impressive 50 percent year-over-year surge seen in 2023. Nevertheless, BEV market share has risen from 7 percent in the initial quarter of 2024, indicating that the transition to electric mobility persists, though at a more measured pace.

This growth, however, must be assessed within the larger automotive landscape, which is currently experiencing challenges. Overall new vehicle sales are anticipated to decline by 12 percent this month, influenced by high interest rates and steep vehicle prices. Such factors are contributing to increased monthly payments, which are hindering consumer interest in new cars, including BEVs.

### A Pandemic-Driven Tesla Boom, Now Facing Increased Competition

Tesla has traditionally been the leading force in the U.S. BEV sector, and its achievements during the pandemic underscored its capacity to handle supply chain disruptions more effectively than traditional competitors. Tesla’s direct-to-consumer sales approach, permitting customers to order online, granted it a competitive advantage as established automakers struggled with dealership shutdowns and manufacturing delays.

Nonetheless, Tesla’s supremacy is beginning to diminish. By mid-2024, Tesla’s U.S. BEV market share has dipped below 50 percent for the first time. This decline is linked to multiple factors, including an outdated product range and the contentious actions of CEO Elon Musk, which have negatively impacted the brand’s reputation, especially in California, the biggest market for electric vehicles in the country. Additionally, Tesla’s production faced challenges, experiencing a 15 percent downturn in Q2 2024, further eroding its market share.

### Traditional Automakers Encounter Transition Difficulties

As Tesla’s market influence wanes, legacy automakers are facing their own obstacles in the shift to electric vehicles. General Motors (GM) and Ford, two major U.S. automakers, have each encountered difficulties in their BEV strategies.

GM, which had aggressive ambitions to electrify its portfolio, has faced technical hurdles that have postponed the introduction of new BEVs from its Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC divisions. In response, GM has redirected some of its focus toward plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), despite having previously moved away from PHEV technology. This strategic shift indicates that GM is hedging its options while navigating the intricacies of electrification.

Conversely, Ford experienced an 86 percent rise in EV sales earlier this year but has since reevaluated its game plan. In August 2024, the automaker scrapped plans for a three-row electric SUV and certain battery production facilities, opting instead to concentrate more on hybrid vehicles. This redirection highlights the challenges automakers face in ramping up BEV manufacturing while balancing consumer demand and profitability.

### Dealership Resistance and Regulatory Hurdles

An additional major challenge for the EV sector is the resistance from car dealerships, which have been campaigning against stricter fuel efficiency standards proposed by the federal government. Dealers contend that the high initial costs of BEVs, along with consumer reluctance, render it hard to market these vehicles effectively. Their lobbying efforts have succeeded in softening some of the suggested regulations, potentially decelerating the pace of EV uptake in the U.S.

### Introduction of New BEV Models Provides Optimism for Ongoing Growth

In spite of the obstacles confronting Tesla and legacy manufacturers, the BEV market is still projected to expand throughout the remainder of 2024. Various new models are emerging, furnishing consumers with increased choices at competitive price points. For instance, the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV is set at a price appealing to the broader audience, and the anticipated Volkswagen ID. Buzz is sparking enthusiasm among consumers seeking a retro-themed electric van.

These new entrants are vital for sustaining the momentum in the BEV market, as they present alternatives to Tesla’s aging offerings and provide more budget-friendly options for consumers who might have previously been unable to afford entry into the market.

### Conclusion: A Market in Evolution

The electric vehicle market in the U.S. stands at a pivotal juncture. Although BEV sales continue to grow, the speed of that growth has decelerated, and the landscape is becoming increasingly competitive. Tesla’s dominance is receding, and traditional automakers are wrestling with the challenges of electrification. Simultaneously, high interest rates, rising vehicle prices, and dealer resistance present additional obstacles for the sector.

However, with fresh BEV models set to debut in showrooms and consumer enthusiasm for electric vehicles remaining robust, the long-term outlook for the EV market stays optimistic. The journey ahead may encounter some bumps, but the

3D-Printed Tubes Inspired by Shark Intestines Outperform Tesla Valves in Effectiveness

### Scientists Replicate Shark Intestines to Develop Advanced Tesla Valves

In a pioneering study, researchers at the University of Washington have adeptly replicated the distinctive spiral formations present in shark intestines through the use of 3D-printed pipes. These biologically inspired designs have shown improved control over fluid flow when compared to conventional Tesla valves, especially when created from flexible polymers. The findings, published in the *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences* (PNAS), pave the way for novel applications in microfluidics, engineering, and medicine.

#### The Tesla Valve: An Overview of Its History

Nikola Tesla, the Serbian-American inventor, secured a patent for the “valvular conduit” in 1920. This innovative design features a pipe that facilitates fluid flow mainly in one direction without requiring movable components. Tesla’s valve is composed of a series of interlinked, asymmetrical, tear-shaped loops that generate considerable resistance to flow in one direction while permitting relatively unobstructed flow in the opposite direction.

In his patent, Tesla asserted that water would traverse 200 times slower in the non-preferred direction than in the favored one. Although this may have been an overstatement, a 2021 investigation by New York University researchers evaluated a Tesla valve and determined that water moved approximately two times slower in the non-preferred direction. The valve’s performance enhances at elevated flow rates, where it produces turbulent flows that serve as a “plug,” effectively inhibiting reverse flow.

Tesla’s valve has been utilized in microfluidics and various domains where managing fluid flow sans moving parts is beneficial. However, nature, particularly shark intestines, may provide an even more effective alternative.

#### Shark Intestines: Nature’s Own Tesla Valves

Sharks have captivated scientists not only for their hunting capabilities but also for their distinctive internal structure. In 2020, researchers from Japan developed 3D representations of catshark intestines, uncovering a scroll-like spiral configuration. A year later, a different team utilized CT scans to examine the intestines of several shark species, concluding that these spirals operate similarly to naturally occurring Tesla valves.

The design of shark intestines aims to optimize nutrient absorption while regulating the movement of digested content. The spiral configuration allows food to progress efficiently in one direction, akin to Tesla’s valvular conduit. This revelation captivated researchers, who recognized the potential for bio-inspired design.

#### Replicating Shark Intestines with 3D Printing

The research group at the University of Washington, directed by postdoctoral researcher Ido Levin, aimed to decipher how shark intestines achieve their flow asymmetry. “Flow asymmetry in a pipe without movable flaps has immense technological promise, yet the underlying mechanism was unclear,” Levin noted. The team sought to identify which components of the intestine’s makeup contributed to the flow asymmetry and which merely facilitated nutrient absorption.

To investigate this, Levin and his team 3D-printed pipes with internal helical designs that replicated the spirals observed in shark intestines. They adjusted aspects such as the number of turns and the pitch angle of the helix. The initial prototypes, constructed from rigid materials, yielded the desired flow asymmetry, matching or surpassing the performance of traditional Tesla valves.

#### The Significance of Soft Materials

Although the rigid 3D-printed pipes were effective, the research team acknowledged that shark intestines are not composed of rigid substances—they are supple and flexible. This flexibility likely plays a vital role in the intestines’ capacity to regulate fluid flow. Motivated by this insight, the researchers chose to explore soft, deformable polymers.

By utilizing the softest commercially available polymers that could be 3D-printed, the researchers produced a fresh set of pipes. These flexible pipes exhibited seven times greater performance in flow asymmetry than any earlier Tesla valve findings. Since shark intestines are approximately 100 times softer than the polymers employed in this study, the researchers anticipate even greater performance with upcoming materials, such as hydrogels.

#### Prospects and Future Endeavors

The success of these bio-inspired valves unlocks a multitude of potential applications. The 3D-printed pipes, being three-dimensional, can handle larger fluid volumes, making them apt for a wide array of industrial and commercial applications. The capability to manage fluid flow without moving components is notably advantageous in sectors like engineering, medicine, and microfluidics.

Alshakim Nelson, a co-author of the research and a specialist in polymer development, highlighted the broader significance of the study. “Chemists have already been driven to create polymers that are simultaneously soft, strong, and printable. The potential application of these polymers to manage flow in domains ranging from engineering to medicine enhances that drive.”

The next hurdle for the team is to discover even softer materials that can endure high deformation while sustaining their structural integrity. Hydrogels, which are currently being researched for 3D printing, could provide a promising avenue. As the landscape of 3D printing technology progresses, the researchers are