The Background
Although there are no confirmed statistics, there are a range of blogs confirming that stolen skis & snowboards from the slopes are a massive problem on top of this I have experienced it firsthand.
Users don’t tend to carry locks on them as they can be a hassle to carry on you when you want to take as little as possible.
A lock itself doesn't fully deter a user as they are small so they can be carried, they aren’t super strong or robust.
A Project From 2021
The Development Process
Through sketching, and modeling generating a range of different iterations, I reached a final concept that I was happy with. Constantly going back and forward between both, testing sizing, how bits come together and feel for the user.
Foam Modelling
Experimenting with a range of sizes and shapes generated through sketching and tested through foam allowed me to navigate to a final concept.
SnowVault
SnowVault is the new generation of snowboard locks. With a smart connection to your snowboard. This means you never have to carry it on you when riding reducing what you need to carry in your pockets.
Smart Alarm
SnowVault connects to your smartphone and notifies the user if someone tampers with it, sounding an alarm on the device and notifying the user through the SnowVault app.
SnowVault also tracks the location of the device through the app allowing friends to track your location and you to track the device if the snowboard was stolen with the device still attached.
Smart Twist Fit
Ensuring the product can be connected to the board the base connector is an adhesive that sticks to the board and is the female connector to the device.
When the user would like to join the device to the board they push and twist the device into the slot available to lock it in place.
The Appearance Model
Creating a real-life representing of the look and feel of the device. Created through 3D printing, sanding, and spray painting.
The App
Connecting to the user’s device allows SnowVault to notify the user if anyone is tampering with the lock and trying to steal the user’s equipment.
If the board is stolen but the device is still attached the app notifies the user of the location of the device to try and locate the thief and get the board back.