Feb. 10, 2015
This year, close to 81,000 attendees participated the International Sport Business Network (ISPO) 2015 held in Munich, Germany. The ISPO is one of the main event on Sports, Business, Health, Fitness, Outdoor, Ski and Performance Sports segments.
One of this year's show highlights in the Ski product category is a 3D-printed skiboot, developed by Mr Franz Egger, using CRP Technology's Windform materials and 3D printing technology. The skiboot structure has been entirely made in Windform SP, one of the top level material of the Windform family. The Windform SP is a polyamide-based material reinforced with carbon fibers and has been used mainly in the field of motorsports and aerospace.
EasyStand: The Windform SP 3D-printed skiboot prototype
"I'm a sporting goods dealer for more than 30 years and I am well aware of the questions regarding ski boots," explained the inventor Franz Egger. "With this innovation, I wanted to find successful solutions for the manufacturer, for the sporting goods dealer and for the skier. My main aim is to bring back more skiers on the slopes (beginners and former skiers)".
The EasyStand project uses 3D printing to manufacture a ski boot and three different ski boot insoles. Each one is higher in the front when compared to the rear. Egger explains that this guarantees a much better fitting on the heel and also provides more space for the toes. This design could provide the skier more pressure for the initiation of turns, a better grip for safer skiing and fewer injuries.
The EasyStand also features a split insole and an integrated wedge which is connected with a regulator by a stick. By adjusting the regulator it is possible to move the wedge into three different positions and change the height of the foot inside of the boot.
The whole structure of the skiboot has been made in Windform SP using selective laser sintering technology. Windform SP, a highly ductile material with top mechanical resistance is also waterproof. It can be used where there is high stress fatigue even in time type vibration or shock without the risk of breaking. It is also an elastic material and could helps to absorb mechanical stress when skiing. According to CRP Technology. Windform SP can maintain its characteristics even at low temperature. It is a good fit for ski products.
Posted in 3D Printing Applications
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