ICELINE
Interchangeable Ice Skate System — Pat. Pend.
Capstone Project - 8 Months
The culmination of my undergraduate design studies and my most challenging and rewarding design work to date.
For the final project of my bachelor’s degree, my challenge was to develop a proactive solution that supports user mobility within an activity—by potentially altering the relationship with it but encouraging engagement and maximizing enjoyment.
As a Canadian and a strong supporter of personal fitness, I chose to tackle recreational ice skating.
PROJECT ORIGINS & PROBLEMS
Many of the activities that people engage in are influenced by one key component—mobility. Mobility, in the simplest sense of the word, is the ability to move or be moved.
Ice skating is a popular way to facilitate movement, particularly during the icy winter season, which provides many physical, cognitive, and social benefits. However, the nature of the activity poses several challenges that hinder regular engagement for leisure and often make it difficult to establish a positive long-term relationship.
PROACTIVE SOLUTION
Iceline is an interchangeable ice skate system designed to encourage, support, and prolong user engagement in recreational ice skating. It aims to reduce pain-points in the skating journey by existing in two modes—a pair of winter boots and ice skates in one.
The design is compatible with different blades, giving users more opportunities and autonomy over their skating experiences with loved ones by catering to different mobility needs, skill levels, and skating environments.
RESEARCH & DESIGN DIRECTION
Background Research
The process began with secondary research, comprising a literature review and consultations with industry experts. Topics covered the history of ice skating, the science behind it, and the contexts and culture around its practice, including market analysis of current skates and assistive accessories.
Observational Research
I then collected primary data through a survey and a handful of formal interviews to gain a deeper understanding and confirm assumptions about the nature of Recreational Ice Skating (RIS) and its challenges.
Insights & Opportunities
Finally, I analyzed and synthesized all of my findings to develop a clear design direction for the next phase.
“Lacing up in the cold sucks…also carrying my boots around or trying to find a safe spot to stash them”
“Rough outdoor ice condition, and putting on and taking off skates is too much of a hassle for a short skate”
“It's hard to get laces to the right tightness for good ankle support but not so tight that it's uncomfortable”
Key Takeaways
Skating demands strong motor abilities that naturally change with age or are impacted by injury/disability
Develop a product that could adapt to different user’s mobility needs and skill levels throughout their life, to increase comfort and confidence
Users engage in RIS in various contexts and prefer outdoor environments, however, this brings several challenges
Develop a product that significantly reduces the frustrations of changing into skates and “streamlines” the overall user journey
CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
Ideation
I began by exploring the key functional aspect of quickly changing from winter boot to ice skate sketching and evaluated the concepts based on several key factors including mechanical feasibility and complexity, ease of interaction, and originality.
Preliminary Prototypes & User Testing
The three methods of interchangeability that I further explored using prototyping were made as an attachment to an existing pair of deconstructed hockey goalie skates to simulate the interactions. To validate each of the three concepts, I presented them to 13 participants for initial feedback and discussion.
Participants were asked to rate each design based on perceived usability, durability, and convenience. They were also asked to rank each concept in order of preference. The test findings yielded a slight preference for the T-slide design in both quantitative results and qualitative insights.
CONCEPT REFINEMENT
Proposed Design
Based on user feedback, I proposed the T-Slide design for further development. In order to increase the durability of the mechanism, I opted for a dovetail-shaped channel to ensure that the attachments remain securely in place while skating. I also iterated the strap and buckle design to ensure durability and manufacturability, and increased usability for users.
Works-like Prototype & User Testing
I created a higher-fidelity working prototype using off-the-shelf components and 3D printing for another round of testing. Users were given the prototype set and minimal instructions to use it while wearing a pair of gloves, and they all found the interaction very intuitive, enjoyable, and efficient while providing opportunities for improvement.
Avg. time of first interaction: ~45sec/one boot = <2mins
Avg. time of subsequent attempts: ~10-15s
The strap should cover more area of the blade insert
Uncertainty over blade directionality and concern about cutting their hand
Product System Development
I then synthesized my final testing insights with some additional research into a definitive set of features for the product system.
This included the capped and tapered dovetail channel to facilitate intuitive and secure blade insertion along with a durable quick-lock heel strap.
The design of the boot was informed by research into current recreational skate anatomy and CMF design of similar sport and lifestyle footwear. Additionally, I designed a carry-case accessory to assist with cleaning, inserting, and carrying the blades.
Model-Making
After receiving a final round of feedback, I began my journey of learning and using VR modelling to better visualize and construct the boot. Finally, I created the physical models using a combination of 3D printing, airbrushing, laser cutting, sandblasting, and sewing fabrics.
Final looks-like models from left to right: 1) blade carry-case, 2) baseplate attached to the “ghost” boot, 3) agility, long-distance, and stability blades, boot sole, and baseplate with buckle and heel strap.
FINAL PRODUCT SYSTEM
Features
Winter Boot Mode
Slide-out winter boot soles enable the user to put their boots on in the comfort of their own home, travel and walk to their desired skating venue, and quickly switch from boot to skate.
To facilitate the seamless transition, a tapered dovetail channel in the baseplate is paired with a durable buckle-lock strap. The matching tapered inserts are capped at the back for intuitive alignment and increased security as they slide into the baseplate.
Ice Skate Mode
The channel and inserts are designed to allow various skate blade options. This enables users to choose the setup that caters to their current mobility needs, skill, and diverse environments.
Materials & Components
User Journey & Value
Iceline is now patent pending in both Canada and the United States and has won 2 awards at ACIDO’s Rocket Competition.
