Nov 7, 2015 | By Tess
Enthusiasts of both skiing and 3D printing can get excited for the two worlds are beginning to collide in a big way, with 3D printed ski boots being made, and bespoke 3D printed ski boot insoles being developed for the comfort and convenience of skiiers. Even more recently, a 3D printed ski boot binding called Pindung is being developed and is currently the subject of a crowd-funding campaign.
The additively manufactured binding was the product of a collaboration between two German companies, Bavarian Alpine Manifest (B.A.M.) and Trindo Digitalmanufaktur GmbH, a Munich based 3D printing service. B.A.M. was founded in 2014 and is a Bavarian based ski binding manufacturer. Considering their self-expressed mandate, to “implement and manifest innovative product ideas for demanding mountaineers and skiers” it is no wonder they have decided to utilize 3D printing technology to develop their products.
The Pindung’s plastic components have been additively manufactured using an SLS 3D printer, which has allowed the company to quickly and efficiently make prototypes of their product. By 3D printing they have also managed to keep the weight of the bindings to a minimum with the Pindungs weighing only 800 grams, making walking and climbing in skis less effort.
The 3D printed Pindung essentially combines the Pintech binding system with alpine safety bindings to make an effective skitouring/freeride binding for skiiers. The Pindung is notable for its focus not only on the skiing experience - though it does boast the same performance as an alpine binding - but for its emphasis on facilitating the skiiers “walk” or ascent. As stated on their crowdfunding page, “Pinding made by B.A.M. unites the advantages of the PinTech touring binding system and conventional alpine safety bindings: low weight and high walking comfort during the ascent by the use of integrated pin system in the front jaw - safety and performance when skiing thanks to fully adjustable DIN setting.”
Pindung’s crowdfunding campaign runs until December 7th, 2015 and has as its goal € 120,000 (with a funding threshold of € 40,000). If the threshold goal is realized B.A.M. has stated it will continue prototyping and developing the product in preparation for its market release. If their target goal is realized the company will be able to begin large-scale production of the Pinding and will be able to finance various marketing activities. B.A.M. plans to launch their product at the 2016 International Trade Fair for Sports Equipment and Fashion (ISPO).
Posted in 3D Printing Application
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