Applying the Wayfaring Model in Product Development: Case Study 'New Ski Concept for Norway'

Abstract

Throughout this thesis the wayfaring model has been applied in a product development case of a smart ski. Based on a vision of making a ski that changes properties based on input from the ski several critical functions have been identified and explored. Following the findings in this work and from general definitions of smart products, we defined what a smart ski actually should be like. The different critical functions of a smart ski have been tested in terms of functional prototypes to confirm and exemplify the definition of a smart ski. A large number of sensors were evaluated to find the most applicable sensor to monitor ski performance. A test setup consisting of sensor(s), recording equipment and an analyzing tool has been developed from ground up in order to benchmark the different behaviors of a ski. Several ways of manipulating a ski have been explored. What was found most interesting was to manipulate the ski by having a dynamic mass distribution. Simple algorithms to control a system were tested briefly in order to confirm that the control system can work. Big opportunities were seen in artificial intelligence and machine learning, but remain unexplored within this thesis. A conceptual ski is suggested based on the findings and definition. In addition, a paper based on the findings of this thesis will be submitted to the journal of the International Sports Engineering Association (ISEA).