CU Denver’s Outside Lab Unveils Advanced Ski and Snowboard Testing Facility
In a significant advancement for the outdoor gear industry, the University of Colorado Denver’s (CU Denver) Outside Lab has introduced a state-of-the-art Ski and Snowboard Test Machine. This cutting-edge equipment aims to establish a new benchmark in evaluating and reporting flex profiles for snow sports gear.
Addressing Industry Gaps
Traditional testing methods often fall short in providing comprehensive insights into the performance of skis and snowboards. The Outside Lab identified a lack of standardized procedures for measuring flex profiles, including torsional stiffness and edge engagement. This gap has led to reliance on subjective assessments, such as manual “hand” bend tests, which can vary significantly between testers.
Collaborative Development
The development of the new test machine was a collaborative effort between CU Denver’s engineering team and the Outside Lab. Trevor Young, Research Services Program Manager with a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, emphasized the importance of this collaboration:
“We designed this machine to capture objective lab-based data points around flex and edge engagement that we could then supply to manufacturers or our consumers of these products.” (tech.yahoo.com)
Innovative Testing Capabilities
The test machine offers a range of advanced testing capabilities:
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Bending Tests: Assessing the flex of skis and snowboards along their length, including tip and tail.
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Edge Engagement Tests: Evaluating the stiffness required to initiate turns, providing insights into edge responsiveness.
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Geometric Profiling: Utilizing laser measurement systems to capture detailed geometric properties, such as sidecut radius and camber profiles, with precision down to less than one-tenth of a millimeter. (tech.yahoo.com)
Implications for Consumers
For consumers, this advancement means access to more precise and comparable data when selecting skis or snowboards. The standardized measurements will enable better-informed decisions, ensuring that gear aligns with individual performance preferences.
Industry Impact
The introduction of this test machine is poised to influence the broader outdoor gear industry. By providing manufacturers with detailed performance data, the lab facilitates the refinement of product designs, leading to enhanced quality and innovation in snow sports equipment.
In summary, CU Denver’s Outside Lab’s new Ski and Snowboard Test Machine represents a pivotal development in gear testing, combining scientific precision with practical application to elevate the standards of snow sports equipment.