Zoox Robotaxis: The Future of Urban Transportation? (Benefits, Safety & Availability)

Self-driving cars have long been a staple of science fiction, but Zoox - a California-based startup - aims to make autonomous urban transportation a reality very soon. Zoox has designed a fully electric, driverless vehicle from the ground up to safely shuttle passengers to their destinations. This robotaxi offers a preview of how we may one day hail a driverless taxi/bus.

In this Blog,

1. Zoox Vehicle Design

2. Autonomous Driving Software

3. Envision Consumer Experience

4. Potential Societal Impacts

5. Safety

6. The Future with Zoox

Zoox Vehicle Design

Zoox’s vehicle has been designed to have a sleek futuristic look while seating four passengers. Zoox vehicles are able to drive forward and backward with equal capabilities. This is enabled by its four-wheel steering and two sets of identical sensor configurations on both the front and back. With the implementation of AI choreography, Zoox vehicles deftly maneuver in tight spaces by sliding sideways into parking spots, removing the need for three-point turns, backing up, or tricky maneuvers for human drivers. The interior feels roomy and comfortable, with seats facing each other to facilitate conversation. There is no steering wheel, brake pedals, or driver controls inside - it is made to be fully autonomous (Zoox, n.d.).

Autonomous Driving Software

The company has innovated both its vehicle design and the self-driving software powering it: what the Zoox engineers have built is what they have described as an “AI co-pilot” capable of navigating busy and unpredictable urban environments. Zoox's artificial intelligence software. processes the torrent of sensor data. Their programs use deep neural networks - inspired by the human brain - to analyze sensor input and make driving decisions. The AI extracts key information like lanes, signs, lights, objects, and pedestrians. It predicts the behavior of other road users and plans safe, efficient routes and motions second-by-second. Zoox's AI leverages large datasets and simulations to train extensively before testing on public roads (Zoox, n.d.).

Zoox vehicles are studded with sensors to achieve 360-degree perception. This includes cameras, lidars, radars, and ultrasonic sensors. The camera system includes wide field-of-view and telephoto lenses to see objects both close-up and at a distance in high resolution. The lidars bounce lasers off surrounding objects to measure distance with precision day or night. Radars complement this by detecting objects and measuring velocity. Ultrasonic sensors fill in blind spots around the vehicle. Fusing all this sensory input enables sophisticated scene understanding (Zoox, n.d.).

Zoox has fleet coordination in which individual Zoox vehicles will coordinate with the larger fleet for optimal routing. A fleet manager AI will track all of the vehicles' locations and statuses. With that information, it can then assign and reroute vehicles to meet ride demands, avoid congestion, and keep the service running smoothly. All of this will rely on fast vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-cloud communication (Zoox, n.d.).

Envision Consumer Experience

For passengers, the experience aims to be seamless. You simply hail a Zoox robotaxi using their app, get in and fasten your seatbelt, and then input your destination. The vehicle handles the rest - expertly maneuvering streets, obeying traffic laws, avoiding obstacles, and smoothly dropping you off at your destination. Throughout the ride, you can relax and enjoy the journey without the stress of driving yourself.

Potential Societal Impacts

Zoox envisions a world where you do not own a car but simply hail a robotaxi whenever needed. This could allow cities to reclaim parking spaces for more green spaces, bike lanes, and wider sidewalks—and other uses that improve urban life. While you ride in a Zoox, you’re unlikely to get stuck in traffic. With real-time coordination, their fleet aims to optimize routes and keep everything moving efficiently.

The environmental benefits could also be immense. Zoox vehicles are all-electric with zero tailpipe emissions. Large self-driving fleets would drastically reduce the number of cars on the road. Even with electricity generation, experts estimate autonomous ride-hailing could cut greenhouse gas emissions from transportation by over 90%.

Safety

With any autonomous vehicle, safety remains paramount. Zoox is putting their vehicles through rigorous closed-course and public road testing. They are focused on building advanced safety cases, risk assessments, and driver monitoring tools to ensure their system performs at least twice as safely as human drivers before commercializing. Monitoring passengers with onboard cameras not only helps keep them safer but also encourages improved behavior.

In addition to the sensors and AI, Zoox vehicles have safety measures like emergency airbags and a rear-impact crumple zone. Their system architecture is designed for redundancy, with duplicate computers and power sources in case of failures. The vehicles are to undergo rigorous physical testing and crash simulations, ensuring that passengers will be protected from danger (Zoox, n.d.).

The Future with Zoox

Zoox has achieved major autonomous driving testing milestones recently. After securing a driverless testing permit from California's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in 2023, their purpose-built robotaxi completed a historic first voyage on public roads without any manual controls or safety drivers. This marked the first time a fully autonomous passenger vehicle designed specifically for ride-hailing navigated open public roads. Zoox also expanded to facilities in Las Vegas, Nevada, and gained approval from the Nevada DMV to test their self-driving robotaxis on public roads there as well. By gaining permits in California and Nevada, Zoox can further validate the autonomous capabilities of their ground-up robotaxi through rigorous real-world piloting. These advances indicate Zoox's progress toward deploying a commercial driverless ride-hailing service in the coming years (Zoox, n.d.).

Conclusion

When might you start seeing bright green and blue Zoox cruisers taxi through your neighborhood? According to them, they hope to launch commercial service in certain cities over the next few years; however, scaling up to widespread availability may require significant time. The technology still has limitations to overcome, regulations to navigate, and public trust to earn, but if this ambitious vision is delivered, then your commute may someday be as simple as hailing your own AI chauffeur.

Zoox provides an exciting glimpse into a possible future that prioritizes mobility efficiency, safety, accessibility, and sustainability over individually owned vehicles. In light of the progress that we have seen so far, this innovative design and well-incorporated artificial intelligence aims to revolutionize how cities move.

References

Zoox. (n.d.). The 'full-stack' behind autonomous driving. Zoox. Retrieved August 8, 2023, from https://zoox.com/autonomy/

Zoox. (n.d.). Get to know our autonomous test fleet. Zoox. Retrieved August 8, 2023, from https://zoox.com/journal/l3-autonomous-fleet/

Zoox. (n.d.). A new bar for safety. Zoox. Retrieved August 8, 2023, from https://zoox.com/safety/

Zoox. (n.d.). Timeline. Zoox. Retrieved August 8, 2023, from https://zoox.com/about/?modal=timeline&stage=2022

Zoox. (n.d.). A to Zoox. Zoox. Retrieved August 8, 2023, from https://zoox.com/journal/atozoox/

About the Author: Khoa Tran

Khoa Tran is an electrical engineer working at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and is currently pursuing his master's in electrical Power from the University of Southern California. He is fluent in both Vietnamese and English and is interested in outdoor activities and exploring new things.

FE Exam Blueprint & Specs: Your Strategic Guide to Targeted Studying & Success

The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is a crucial first step for recent engineering graduates seeking professional licensure. Passing this exam is a requirement for becoming a Professional Engineer (PE) in the United States. The breadth and depth of topics covered on the FE exam can seem overwhelming to new test takers. By thoughtfully reviewing the exam specifications and blueprint, students can strategically familiarize themselves with the content areas and knowledge types prior to sitting for the exam.

In this Blog,

1. What is the FE Exam?

2. Some Helpful Tips

3. Conclusion

What is the FE Exam?

The FE exam is developed and administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). They provide an exam specifications document that outlines the knowledge areas covered, the number of questions per area, and general instructional targets that questions will assess. There are currently seven discipline-specific FE exams, such as Chemical, Civil, Electrical & Computer, and Mechanical. Candidates should carefully select the exam that aligns with the curriculum and content of their engineering degree.

Across all exams, there are five general knowledge areas: Mathematics, Ethics & Professional Practice, Engineering Sciences, Engineering Topics, and Supplemental Topics. The number of questions per section will vary based on the specific discipline. As an example, the FE Civil exam specifications indicate there will be 20 questions on Mathematics, 5 on Ethics, 12 on Engineering Sciences, 40 on Engineering Topics, and 8 on Supplemental Topics. Reviewing this high-level breakdown is the first step toward targeting your preparation.

Next, using the official NCEES exam blueprint is key to familiarizing yourself with the detailed list of topics. The public blueprint provides the subcategories within each knowledge area and the approximate number of questions on each topic. For the Mathematics section, it is specified that the exam includes Algebra (3 questions), Calculus (4 questions), Matrix & Linear Algebra (2 questions), Probability & Statistics (4 questions), and more. This level of detail allows you to quantify the relative importance of subjects and assess your current level of knowledge. Digging into topic specifics guides smart studying.

Some Helpful Tips

Beyond the official exam guides, there are a few strategies to familiarize yourself further:

1. Work through FE study books and practice exams. Actively solving problems will familiarize you with the format, level of difficulty, terminology, and theory applications. Review your strengths and weaknesses.
2. Reference the publicly posted FE exam pass rates to see the historical performance on your exam. Use this to gauge your readiness across disciplines.
3. Join online FE exam preparation communities, forums, or subreddits. Discuss the exam with peers and learn what stumped others.
4. If you took related engineering courses, review textbooks and notes. Refresh yourself on key theories as a starting point.
5. For less familiar topics, utilize free online lectures and educational content to build up your knowledge foundation.
6. Create flashcards for mathematical equations, chemistry reactions, physics formulas, or other subjects requiring memorization.

Conclusion

The intensive studying required for the FE exam can seem daunting at first. By strategically using the NCEES exam specifications and blueprints, you can focus your preparation on the topics most likely to be assessed. Pair these guides with practice exams, review materials, forums, and flashcards. As the exam date approaches, you will feel confident and familiar with the full list of topics slated for your particular FE exam. Your diligence will pay off with a passing score on this milestone assessment for future engineers. Stay motivated during your studies by keeping your long-term professional goals at the forefront. Preparing methodically for the FE exam will equip you with specialized engineering knowledge and set you up for the next stage of professional licensure.

Ready to begin your study journey? Enroll in one of School of PE’s comprehensive FE exam prep courses now! If you are a university student who prefers a self-study option where you can pick and choose which topics you study, check out our FE Modules!

About the Author: Khoa Tran

Khoa Tran is an electrical engineer working at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and is currently pursuing his master's in electrical Power from the University of Southern California. He is fluent in both Vietnamese and English and is interested in outdoor activities and exploring new things.

FE Exam Without an Engineering Background: Is It Possible? Here's the Truth

The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, also known as the Engineer in Training (EIT) exam, is the first step in becoming a licensed professional engineer in the United States. The exam is designed to test an examinee’s basic engineering knowledge, which is typically acquired through an undergraduate engineering degree. While that may be the case, there have been a few wondering “if it is possible to take and pass the FE exam without having the typical working engineering knowledge?”. The answer is maybe that not only would this endeavor be quite challenging, but the subject matter is not the only factor that decides whether or not someone could take the exam. Here's an overview of the FE exam and the feasibility of taking it without an engineering background.

In this Blog,

1. What is the FE Exam?

2. Who Typically Takes the FE Exam?

3. Is It Possible to Take the FE Exam Without an Engineering Degree?

4. Steps to Prepare for the FE Exam Without an Engineering Degree

What is the FE Exam?

The FE exam is a 6-hour computer-based test administered year-round by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). It covers core engineering subjects such as mathematics, statistics, chemistry, physics, engineering economics, ethics, and basic engineering principles within specific disciplines: Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Industrial & Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Other Disciplines.

As of 2024, the exam currently consists of 110 multiple-choice questions. The exact topics, however, vary slightly depending on the chosen engineering discipline; the specific subjects tested can be viewed on the NCEES website and through the exam specifications provided information.

Passing the FE exam demonstrates an understanding of basic engineering concepts and the specific discipline chosen, but it is also often the first step to acquiring an entry-level engineering position in certain industries. Obtaining an EIT certification is also required to move forward to taking the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam, which is necessary for professional engineering licensure.

Who Typically Takes the FE Exam?

Before taking the FE without a traditional background in engineering, let us go over who the exam was written for. As stated by the administrator of the exam, NCEES, the FE exam is recommended for recent engineering graduates and working engineers.

Current engineering students and recent graduates who have completed an EAC/ABET-accredited engineering program still likely have the material they learned in class fresh in their minds, making them great candidates to take the exam and pass.

The ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology) is an ISO 9001-certified organization that accredits most engineering degree programs internationally. ABET-accredited programs would typically cover the fundamentals tested on the FE exam.

Working engineers may also take the FE exam, especially if their undergraduate degree is from a non-accredited program. The FE exam should be taken for those who are in an industry where professional licensure is required for promotions and contracting. In some states, it is required to pass the FE exam for licensure, even for experienced engineers with many years under their belt. The examinee must have the proper educational and experience credentials to register for the exam.

Is It Possible to Take the FE Exam Without an Engineering Degree?

The FE exam does not explicitly require an examinee to have an engineering degree before they are able to take it, and in some cases, engineering students are able to take it before receiving their degree. Ultimately, eligibility varies by state licensing boards, but most require a degree in engineering or engineering technology from an ABET-accredited program. Some states allow applicants to substitute education and work experience to demonstrate equivalent knowledge, and there are a few that allow anyone with a college degree in a STEM field to take it.

Without having the typical engineering educational background, is it possible to independently acquire the knowledge needed to pass the exam? Perhaps, with the right combination of self-study, practice, and determination. There is a plethora of study guides and preparation materials online, and the FE Reference Handbook provided as a study resource for the exam can supplement some fundamental knowledge gaps. Even without enrolling in engineering, topics like mathematics, physics, chemistry, and economics align with non-engineering curriculums. It is possible for an examinee to intensely self-study engineering principles not covered in their degree program, but obviously, this would require a significant amount of effort.

Steps to Prepare for the FE Exam Without an Engineering Degree

For the determined non-engineer wanting to tackle the FE exam, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

1. Ensure that your state licensing board allows you to take the FE without actively pursuing or already obtaining an engineering degree from an accredited program.
2. Choose an engineering discipline exam that best aligns with your background or interests. Mechanical, electrical, civil, and chemical are common options for non-engineers.
3. Obtain the NCEES FE Reference Handbook and examine the topics covered in the exam specifications for your chosen discipline. Identify knowledge gaps.
4. Study FE exam prep books and materials. Many focus on the fundamentals tested and provide practice problems with solutions. Work through them meticulously.
5. Master mathematics completely. Math is a significant component of the FE exam, so ensure algebra, trigonometry, calculus, probability, and statistics are locked down.
6. Enroll in online courses to fill discipline-specific knowledge gaps. Many platforms, like School of PE, offer FE exam reviews or engineering fundamental courses to supplement self-study.
7. Solve hundreds of practice exam questions. FE exam prep books and online resources provide realistic multiple-choice questions. Practice makes perfect.
8. Don't neglect studying the general engineering principles that span disciplines, like engineering economics, ethics, and quality control.
9. Maintain confidence in yourself. With diligence and commitment, passing the FE exam without an engineering degree IS possible. Be mentally resilient.

Conclusion

The intensive preparation required gives non-engineers a shot at passing the FE exam, though the path is undoubtedly tougher. Obtaining an engineering education and gaining practical experience before testing will set any examinee up for an easier journey. While the FE exam is passable without working engineering knowledge, hands-on learning facilitates deeper mastery of the concepts and skills tested. For non-engineers, passionately immersing oneself in a self-driven engineering education may be the ticket to success. With determination and hard work, the FE exam can be conquered by those willing to put in the effort.

Whether you are a current engineering student or someone who graduated from their engineering program many years ago, School of PE can help you prepare with confidence for your FE exam. Learn more about our courses today or register now!

About the Author: Khoa Tran

Khoa Tran is an electrical engineer working at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and is currently pursuing his master's in electrical Power from the University of Southern California. He is fluent in both Vietnamese and English and is interested in outdoor activities and exploring new things.

Do Employers Care Which FE Exam You Take? Picking an FE Exam Discipline

In today's competitive job market, new engineering graduates are faced with the ever-growing challenge of standing out from a pool of their peers. An effective method in which an engineer may significantly capture an employer’s attention is to obtain their professional licensure, but to do that, they must first pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. However, many aspiring engineers often wonder if employers pay special attention to which specific FE exam was taken and passed. The aim of this blog is to answer that very question and reveal the relevance of which FE exam(s) capture the eyes of potential employers.

In this Blog,

1. Understanding the FE Exam

2. Employer Perspective

3. Factors Influencing Employer Perception

3.1. Relevance to the Job

3.2. Specialized Positions

3.3. Personal Interests and Career Goals

Understanding the FE Exam:

Before we begin exploring the perspective of an employer, it is essential for you to understand the purpose and structure of the FE exam. To begin, the FE is administered and overseen by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), an American non-profit dedicated to advancing professional licensure for engineers and surveyors. It is designed for recent graduates and students and evaluates an engineer’s fundamental engineering knowledge across various disciplines.

Being an evaluation of the fundamentals of engineering, naturally, there are multiple FE exam specifications that an examinee may take: Chemical, Civil, Electrical & Computer, Environmental, Industrial & Systems, Mechanical, and Other Disciplines. While each discipline requires a base knowledge of engineering as a whole, they are also tested on the specifics of their field. You can learn more about the different FEs by exploring the available PDFs on Exam Specifications here.

Employer Perspective:

When it comes to which FE you should take, it is important to consider that while all exams cover the same overall fundamentals of engineering, employers are looking for applicants who have successfully passed the FE of their career specification. Although the primary objective of the FE exam is to demonstrate that an engineer has a solid grasp of the foundational principles, regardless of the chosen discipline, someone who has succeeded in obtaining their Engineer in Training (EIT) certification in Civil Engineering will not have the same background needed in a job looking for an electrical engineer.

It is true that employers prioritize the quality of the engineer; this is because they want to hire someone who not only understands engineering but is able to utilize their knowledge in tackling problems. However, there is a reason that engineering has different courses and degrees for different disciplines, with each having its own strengths and weaknesses that not everyone can fulfill at once. Although there are different specialized exams for various engineering fields, they all cover the core topics that all engineers need to know.

Factors Influencing Employer Perception:

Now that we know what the FE exam is, what FE exams are offered, and what employers generally consider, let us examine further factors that will influence which exam you should take for your future career.

1. Relevance to the Job

It is no surprise that employers are looking at applicants who are well acquainted with the specific discipline relating to the nature of the job or industry in which they operate. To solidify this concept, we will look at civil engineering; it is a requirement that civil engineers have obtained or are in the process of obtaining their EIT or professional licensure in order to be promoted. This is because civil projects must have people in management who are well-versed in their field, as they are also responsible for the many lives who will be using their projects.

A broad foundation established throughout all the FE exams does not equip every engineer to tackle the various challenges that different disciplines encounter in their specific work.

2. Specialized Positions

Continuing from the previous point, certain positions, particularly those in highly specialized fields such as aerospace engineering or biomedical engineering, require their candidates to have a more tailored skill set. In these cases, it is far more crucial to have relevant coursework or experience in that specific field.

Aerospace is a branch of mechanical engineering, and biomedical engineering is branched off electrical engineering, meaning both are fields that require engineers to have a strong foundation in their own specifications and a strong knowledge base of their mother discipline. Engineering is an ever-evolving field of study, with new branches of discipline spawning whenever a major advancement in science occurs.

3. Personal Interests and Career Goals:

Prioritizing what future employers are looking for can only be done once you have taken into account where your own personal interests lie and where your career goals are. Some candidates may have a genuine passion for a specific discipline and aspire to pursue a career in a more specialized field. In such cases, taking the discipline-specific FE exam, which aligns with their career aspirations, can only be viewed positively by employers who value passion and dedication. Employers often appreciate candidates who demonstrate a clear focus and drive for their careers.

Conclusion

To answer the question posed at the beginning of the blog, yes, employers do care which FE exam you take. As stated in the name, each of the specialized exams requires that the examinees be well-versed in the fundamentals of engineering. Still, the many different fields of engineering require a greater focus on their specific fields. Employers do focus on a candidate’s ability to adapt and learn within their organizations, but they are also searching for candidates who satisfy the requirements of the designated industry.

Aspiring engineers should choose the FE exam that aligns with their interests and long-term career goals. By highlighting a solid foundation of engineering knowledge and demonstrating a willingness to learn and grow, candidates can present themselves as valuable assets to potential employers.

By understanding the employer's perspective and considering the factors that may influence their perception, engineering graduates can make informed decisions regarding their FE exam choice, positioning themselves for success in the competitive job market.

Are you preparing to take an FE exam? School of PE has helped thousands of students prepare for and pass their FE exams and get on the path to licensure. Learn more today about our #1-rated courses now!

About the Author: Khoa Tran

Khoa Tran is an electrical engineer working at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and is currently pursuing his master's in electrical Power from the University of Southern California. He is fluent in both Vietnamese and English and is interested in outdoor activities and exploring new things.

Seeding Progress: Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Sprouts Growth Across America

The winding legislative path of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, formally known as H.R. 3684, demonstrates the arduous process required to transform an ambitious policy proposal into bipartisan law. Introduced in the House on June 4, 2021, by Representative Peter DeFazio (D-OR), the bill faced skepticism from Republicans and weeks of intense negotiations to scale back spending and refine priorities. After gaining House approval in a close vote on July 1, 2021, H.R. 3684 underwent further changes in the Senate before finally passing 69-30 on August 10. With the stalemate broken, the House adopted the Senate version on November 5, clearing the way for President Biden's signature on November 15. The turbulent timeline provides insight into how contentious and uncertain major legislation can be, even with broad consensus on the need for upgrades to America's infrastructure. What emerged after months of debate was an imperfect yet historic $1.2 trillion investment package few imagined possible, proving compromise remains achievable in a deeply divided Congress (Resource Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: Implementation and Key Resources, 2022).

In this Blog,

1. Division A

2. Division B

3. Division C

4. Division D

5. Division E

Division A

Much fanfare surrounded the Infrastructure Act's largesse for roads and bridges, but Division A reaches beyond conventional highway programs. Wildlife finds refuge in new crossing corridors as states gain resources to control invasive roadside vegetation. Electric vehicle charging stations blossom along designated alternative fuel corridors to aid the zero-emissions transition. Port facilities can tap new grants to cut diesel emissions from idling trucks. Amid the road and transit upgrades are welcome investments in safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Tribal communities gain more direct funding and involvement in planning. Even the highway workforce receives attention, with states encouraged to analyze personnel needs. States remain the key implementers, but enhanced planning and cooperation with federal agencies should deliver projects faster. Though still bound to the gas tax, highways emerge better equipped to meet new transportation challenges and serve all users more equitably (117th Congress, 2021).

Division B

Less glamorous models share the spotlight in the Infrastructure Act's Division B, which tackles freight, rail, road safety, research, and more. Multimodal freight policy gains new coordination and planning mandates to improve stressed supply chains. Railroad crossings and passenger routes come under scrutiny, with new reporting on blocked crossings and Amtrak food service. Trucking workforce programs, stronger recall enforcement, emergency braking requirements, and anti-trafficking efforts address glaring safety gaps. Research initiatives span smart transportation pilot projects, climate-friendly concrete, crash data barriers, and marijuana impairment questions. Though catering to niche interests, the division's programs promise broader ripple effects. Upgraded rail connections could entice travelers from congested air and highway routes. Smoother coordination of freight infrastructure across modes would enhance U.S. competitiveness. Fewer road deaths and injuries from long-overdue safety measures offer immense social and economic benefits (117th Congress, 2021).

Division C

Tucked away in the lesser-known Division C of the infrastructure law are consequential updates for the nation’s public transit systems, which ferry essential workers and connect vulnerable populations to jobs, services, and opportunities. With innovation and climate at the forefront, the division empowers metropolitan planners to consider new factors shaping communities, like housing affordability. Capital grants for long-planned projects can finally exit limbo, advancing new high-capacity transit options. Intercity rail and bus networks stand to gain from new funding for cleaner, modern fleets. Rural and tribal areas, where transit access remains scarce, will benefit from targeted investment. Even the data itself will improve, arming decision-makers with insights into unmet needs. While later provisions claim more headlines, the public transit updates in Division C deliver meaningful, if quieter, impacts. The investments foreshadow a lower-carbon future where access to affordable mobility is more equitable across geographies and incomes (117th Congress, 2021).

Division D

Bolstering America's energy infrastructure to meet 21st-century needs is a key focus of Division D. It promotes investments to modernize the power grid, enhance reliability and resilience, and secure critical energy networks against cyber threats. Support for new transmission lines and technologies like battery storage aims to accelerate the transition to clean energy. Creating domestic supply chains for key minerals and advanced batteries will reduce dependence on foreign sources. Funding is provided for carbon capture, hydrogen production, and next-generation nuclear reactors. Upgrading hydroelectric facilities, plugging abandoned oil and gas wells, and reclaiming former mining lands also receive attention. Requirements to collect more energy data will inform future policy. Though not exhaustive, the division touches on priorities to position American energy systems for the future – cleaner, more secure, and more robust. Progress on these fronts will take time, but the legislation plants important seeds (117th Congress, 2021).

Division E

The Infrastructure Act devotes over $50 billion to one of the most essential and overlooked facets of infrastructure – the hidden water systems bringing safe drinking water to homes and removing wastewater (EPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency, 2023). Division E reinvigorates state revolving funds and the workhorses of water infrastructure financing while inaugurating programs to confront new challenges. Lead line replacement, cybersecurity risks, rural access, stormwater overflows, and resilient systems in the era of climate change all receive targeted funding. Special provisions aid disadvantaged communities and tribal systems long plagued by inadequate facilities. The infusion of resources begins to reverse the neglect of unseen pipes and plants that underpin public health. Though more remains to be done, the investments signal coming upgrades that will deliver cleaner, more reliable water to households across America – a worthwhile, if invisible, legacy.

Conclusion

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act emerges as a complex legislative patchwork stitched together through difficult compromise. Its breadth traces Congress' struggle to bundle priorities into a single viable package. While gaps and imperfections remain, the law channels funding into initiatives with far-reaching impacts on transportation networks, energy systems, and essential water services. Years of construction and upgrading lie ahead. But the investments plant seeds of renewal across America's infrastructure landscape, even if sprouts take time to emerge. The measure's passage over partisan obstinacy echoes earlier eras when ambitious public works gained broad support. Though overshadowed by later social policy bills, the legacy of the infrastructure law may prove more tangible for average Americans in the long run through its nuts-and-bolts repair of a fraying foundation underlying national prosperity.

References

EPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2023, May 4). 2022 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRFs) | US EPA. EPA. Retrieved August 20, 2023, from https://www.epa.gov/infrastructure/2022-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-clean-water-and-drinking-water-state-revolving

117th Congress. (2021, 11 15). H.R.3684 - 117th Congress (2021-2022): Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Congress.gov. Retrieved August 20, 2023, from https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684

Resource Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: Implementation and Key Resources. (2022, October 13). National Conference of State Legislatures. Retrieved August 20, 2023, from https://www.ncsl.org/state-federal/infrastructure-investment-and-jobs-act-implementation-and-key-resources

About the Author: Khoa Tran

Khoa Tran is an electrical engineer working at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and is currently pursuing his master's in electrical Power from the University of Southern California. He is fluent in both Vietnamese and English and is interested in outdoor activities and exploring new things.

From Earth to Mars: Perseverance's Journey of Discovery and What it Means for Us

Mars, our galaxy’s own "Red Planet," has captured our imagination with its unique rusted surface, and for centuries, we've looked up at the night sky and wondered about what’s beyond. This pursuit and desire to uncover what secrets Mars has to offer has driven us to develop cutting-edge space exploration technologies. A recent development in our exploration of our interplanetary neighbor is the Mars Rover Perseverance, which was launched by NASA on July 30, 2020. In this blog, we will embark on a captivating journey through this rover’s ambitious mission objectives and technological advancements, as well as reflect on the astonishing scientific discoveries it made.

In this Blog,

1. Mission Objectives

2. Technological Advancements

3. Scientific Discoveries

4. Ingenuity Helicopter

5. Collaboration and International Contributions

6. Future Implications

7. Challenges and Lessons Learned

Mission Objectives

The Mars Rover Perseverance is a testament to human ingenuity and determination to explore the unknown. Perseverance is tasked to explore and gather samples in the Jezero crater—in fact, its older rover cousin Curiosity has revealed that liquid water and microbes once existed on Mars. By studying Mars’ rocks, soil, and atmosphere, the Perseverance acts as an inquisitive geologist, piecing together the story of the Red Planet’s ancient past (NASA, 2020).

Not only is the Perseverance a remote geologist, but it also serves as a trailblazer for future missions to Mars by testing advanced technologies. Its mission includes evaluating the effectiveness of its landing system powered by a sky crane to ensure safe arrival on the Martian surface. The rover is also equipped with an ingenious sample caching system, enabling the robot to collect and store Martian rock and soil samples for a future sample return mission. This mission aims to bring these samples back to Earth, where scientists can conduct in-depth analyses using state-of-the-art laboratories. This would effectively create a Martian time capsule back to our home planet carrying secrets of the Red Planet.

Perseverance also carries the Mars Oxygen In-Situ Resource Utilization Experiment, or MOXIE for short. MOXIE is NASA’s attempt to prepare for future human exploration on the Martian surface. This amazing device intends to generate oxygen from the vast amounts of carbon dioxide in Mars’s atmosphere.

Technological Advancements

Perseverance is not just any ordinary rover but an upgrade on the Mars Science Library’s Curiosity rover. Its six wheels, coated with rugged treads, allow it to navigate treacherous terrains with ease. This rover can efficiently and quickly cover vast distances, akin to an intrepid explorer, to explore different regions of Mars (NASA, 2020).

The entry, descent, and landing phase, or EDL, was a true test of precision and timing for Perseverance. The rover had to autonomously navigate through the Martian atmosphere, braving the fiery entry, and execute a daring sky crane landing to ensure a gentle touchdown on the surface. It was a breathtaking and daring performance, solely relying on the engineering team’s proficiency in mathematical models, simulations, and implementations.

Once on Martian soil, Perseverance’s scientific prowess can truly shine with its arsenal of advanced instruments. Among the many cutting-edge tools is the SuperCam, which can vaporize rocks and soils with a laser to remotely analyze the composition of the samples. Its Mastcam-Z provides stunning high-definition 3D images of the Martian landscape, allowing scientists and the public alike to marvel at the alien beauty of Mars (NASA, 2020).

Scientific Discoveries

Perseverance's discoveries on Mars have been nothing short of awe-inspiring. Its predecessor, the Curiosity rover, has revealed clear evidence of Mars' watery past with the discovery of ancient river channels and lake beds. Through this discovery, NASA has sent the Perseverance to the Jezero crater, which suggests that billions of years ago, Mars might have been home to vast bodies of liquid water, making it a potential haven for life (NASA, 2020).

Quickly, the rover discovered organic matter through its exploration. Although no definitive evidence of past life has been found yet, the discovery of organic compounds, molecules containing carbon, the building block of life, has sparked hope and ignited curiosity. Perseverance's mission is like reading the planet's memoirs, slowly uncovering the story of its past inhabitants.

Ingenuity Helicopter

Enter Ingenuity, the groundbreaking helicopter attached to Perseverance. This little rotorcraft made history as the first vehicle to achieve powered flight on another planet. With each graceful flight, Ingenuity has opened new possibilities for future aerial exploration of distant worlds.

Collaboration and International Contributions

The Perseverance mission is a testament to humanity's ability to come together and collaborate for a shared goal. Scientists, engineers, and researchers from around the world, including collaborators from the U.S., Spain, and Norway, have joined hands in this grand endeavor. This collaboration reflects the universal human spirit of exploration and the collective thirst for knowledge.

Future Implications

Perseverance's development and accomplishments have established a new precedent for the future of space exploration. As we continue to study Mars' geology and uncover its past, we lay the groundwork for human missions to the Red Planet.

The success of this mission can inspire humanity’s space travel to become far bigger and bolder. As we gaze upon the stars, a future where humanity not only visits other planets but establishes permanent residences beyond Earth becomes ever more achievable.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

Perseverance's mission has been a testament to the resilience of our indomitable human spirit. Along the way, the rover has and will encounter challenges that test our intelligence and ingenuity. The EDL phase, for instance, was a high-stakes maneuver that had to be executed flawlessly, but in the face of adversity, we persevered (pun intended), and each challenge taught us valuable lessons.

The rover's tireless efforts have shown us that no dream is too big and no obstacle is insurmountable. The journey to Mars is a reminder that, despite the vastness of space and the difficulties of interplanetary travel, humanity's determination knows no bounds.

Conclusion

The Mars Rover Perseverance has created a new precedent for extraordinary voyages throughout our galaxy. From its ambitious mission objectives to its technological marvels, from its breathtaking journey to its astonishing scientific findings, Perseverance has redefined the boundaries of human exploration.

As we look to the future, Perseverance's triumph fills us with hope and inspiration. It showcases the brilliance of human ingenuity and the power of international collaboration. Our quest to explore Mars and the cosmos reflects the very essence of humanity—the unyielding curiosity that drives us to explore and understand our universe.

The Mars Rover Perseverance reminds us that we are cosmic wanderers reaching out to touch the stars. Through our endeavors, we gain not only a deeper understanding of the universe but also a profound appreciation for the fragile beauty of our own home planet, Earth.

References

NASA. (2020, July 30). Mars 2020 Mission Overview. NASA Mars Exploration. Retrieved July 23, 2023, from https://mars.nasa.gov/mars2020/mission

About the Author: Khoa Tran

Khoa Tran is an electrical engineer working at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and is currently pursuing his master's in electrical Power from the University of Southern California. He is fluent in both Vietnamese and English and is interested in outdoor activities and exploring new things.

Financing the FE Exam: A Complete Breakdown of FE Exam Expenses

The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is an important step for engineers in obtaining their Professional Engineer (PE) license. There is an upfront fee to take the exam, which varies depending on several factors. This blog aims to clarify these factors, and then we will go over various aspects that contribute to the overall financial cost of preparing and taking the FE exam, such as registration fees, study materials, and other miscellaneous items.

In this blog,

FE Exam Cost Breakdown:

1. Registration Fee

2. Study Materials

3. Calculator

4. Travel Expenses

5. Retake Fees

6. Additional Costs

Cost Breakdown

1. Registration Fee: The FE exam comes has a registration fee. Starting January 1, 2024, the registration fee for the FE exam in the United States is $225. These fees are subject to change, and some licensing boards require additional application fees, so it is advisable to check the current pricing at the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) website.
   
   There are also reasonable accommodations for which examinees can apply. Please visit the Exam Resources section on the NCEES website.
   
   
   
   
   
2. Study Materials: Examines should expect to invest in study materials such as textbooks, reference guides, practice exams, and online courses in preparation for the FE exam. Pricing for all the various study materials will vary wildly depending on the format and quality. One can expect to pay at least $50 for a single textbook or study guide and up to a few hundred dollars for comprehensive online courses or review packages.
   
   
3. Calculator: NCEES requires all calculators used during the examination to meet specific criteria. Casio FX-115 series calculators are commonly used by examinees, but other calculators are also allowed. Please see the complete list below:
   
   
   
   
   

   Calculators vary in price. However, some examinees may already own an approved calculator, so this cost may be negligible for them.
   
   
4. Travel Expenses: Depending on the location of the exam center, candidates may incur some travel expenses. This can include costs such as transportation (flights, gas, or public transport), accommodation (if the exam center is far from their residence), and meals. The extent of these expenses varies for each candidate based on their proximity to the exam center.
   
   
5. Retake Fees: In the unfortunate chance that a candidate does not pass the FE exam on their first attempt, they are able to retake it, but they will need to pay the registration fee again for each subsequent attempt. It is important to consider this potential cost since everyone won’t pass on their first attempt.
   
   
6. Additional Costs: A cost that may not always be considered is the cost in time away to study. There will be a social cost where examinees will forgo going out with friends and family, a professional cost where vacation days or paid time off will be needed to adequately prepare for the test, and other costs associated with dedicating time and focus to studying.

Conclusion

It is worth noting that the costs mentioned above are approximate and can vary based on a multitude of personal circumstances and situations. We recommend visiting the official NCEES website or contacting their customer service for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the cost of the FE exam.

Remember, investing in proper preparation for the FE exam is crucial for success. It can save you money in the long run by avoiding retake fees and accelerating your path to becoming a licensed Professional Engineer.

Another great way to save yourself effort, money, and time is to take an exam review course with School of PE. Our courses boost your chances of passing to a whopping 93%! Check out our exam review options today.

About the Author: Khoa Tran

Khoa Tran is an electrical engineer working at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and is currently pursuing his master's in electrical Power from the University of Southern California. He is fluent in both Vietnamese and English and is interested in outdoor activities and exploring new things.