INNOVATION IN SPORTS EQUIPMENT – BRIDGING IDEAS, EXPERTISE, AND APPLICATION BY UTILIZING SYSTEMATIC DESIGN APPROACHES

Abstract

Today many developments in sports equipment appear to be driven by the interests and processes of individual disciplines or departments. The resulting products consequently often show strengths in some aspects and shortfalls in others. In this contribution it is claimed that the application of systematic approaches would lead to more balanced and more relevant innovations in this field. The basic procedure and some core organizational requirements of a design process suitable for sports equipment are introduced, and illustrated with examples from selected projects. Wherever appropriate or applicable, the consequences for the work of biomechanists involved in product development projects will be specifically highlighted.