Freeride skis
During my time at Lieuwe Boards I realized that the production process for kitesurf boards had a lot of similarities to that of skis. I started exploring whether I could produce my own skis. What began as a passion project in after-hours became something the team found very interesting to pursue further. I developed the entire production process including the press and created several sets of skis.
Development of tools
The availability of building materials and a CNC mill made it possible to create professional-quality skis that are still in use today. Designing the tools to manufacture the ski’s was the biggest and most daunting task and required the most design work.
The press
The mold is constructed from an MDF sheet. On the CNC mill, the rocker and camber of the ski mold is precisely machined. To generate the required pressure in the press, I used fire hoses that inflate to 5 bar, ensuring an even distribution of the load. The press squeezes the composite laminate together with a force of 30.000kg and a temperature of 100 °C
Visuals
I loved creating the artwork for the ski's. I used both Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. With the availability of a professional solvent printer, high quality graphics could be printed. I designed the graphics from scratch in Adobe Illustrator.
Key Project Insights
Combined with my internship I gained extensive knowledge about certain manufacturing techniques and machinery. I not only operated these machines but also repaired, improved, and developed them. This experience proved invaluable during my studies and design career.
My love for hands-on work combined with the technical and creative process.
The importance of parametric and structured 3D modelling.
Someone has to test them… ;)