Personal Flotation Device
2011
Responsibilities: Research, Concept Development, Design Refinement, Prototyping, Material Sourcing, Production.
Assignment
Extrasport designs and manufactures each Personal Flotation Device (PFD) to fulfill a particular need or challenge. Design a PFD to expand the recreational segment.
10 people a day drown in the United States. It is the 6th leading cause of unintentional injury death. 90% of drownings are due to neglect or improper use of a PFD.
In the majority of reviewed cases, a PFD would have prevented drowning.
Goal
Develop a Personal Flotation Device that encourages safe and proper use.
Why do we neglect? People always wear parachutes, but bike helmets or seatbelts are worn less often. Many often feel that they are above the necessary precautions, while statistics overwhelmingly prove otherwise.
The best PFD is the one that will be worn.
How can a PFD become more like a favorite item of clothing than a restrictive safety device? By altering the perception of a PFD, a product can be created that is essential to a user both physically and emotionally.
Out in the elements, the ability to adapt is essential, and versatility is key. Introducing a multi-use component to a single-use product increases value in the event of an emergency.
We carry technology everywhere, but water remains its Achilles' heel. If a PFD protected belongings as well as lives, would it be more likely to be used correctly?
Inspired by fisherman's vests and outdoor gear, ideation yielded the concept of an attachable/removable pack. Easy adjustability and waterproof storage were given heavy consideration.
The diagonal alignment of pockets was arrived at through a blend of wrist ergonomics and the Extrasport brand logo.
Utilizing a pullover method of donning, the PFD has a singular connection point at the waist. Flexible neoprene fabric at the shoulders and hips guarantees a user-specific fit.
High contrast colors have a twofold purpose. First: to increase visibility, and second: to serve as visual communication and styling, calling out connection points and important features.
The connection system mimics extrusion rails with a series of small clips mounted on the front and back of the PFD. The pack is then secured in place by looping the straps through the front of the PFD.
With enough to carry most items one might need for a day, the pack becomes a catalyst with the ability to transform an outing into an adventure.
