Design for the Future: Creating a Champion

Abstract

The goal of sports protective wear is to maintain safety and reduce the risk of injury, especially in areas of the body most vulnerable during contact. Furthermore, playing an essential role in preserving the longevity and performance quality of athletes. This thesis proposes that the security provided by protective sports performance can also effectively contribute to the confidence and motivation to perform. Thus ‘Creating a Champion’ is an exploration into what performance and protection could look like in the future, employing contemporary technologies creatively, for a speculative design outcome.

Employing 3d scanning, 3d modelling and 3d printing, an effective design approach was developed responding to the design challenge in a practical and appropriate manner. Furthermore, the 3d printed concepts served as a protector as well as a sports performance enhancing stimulator. With the application of research through design playing a fundamental role in the design development of the resolved model, the 3d printed skin was evaluated and reflected upon.

The thesis was concluded with the 3d printed skin performing in new and novel ways. While, providing compelling functionality, and an ergonomic fit to the body the skin was provocative and visually compelling.With minor alterations, the composed design may become a product relevant in the future of 3d printed sports protective wear. Where protection is a visual and an emotional perception.