On this project, I worked closely with Brunel University Rowing club on a hand tool that would enhance their experience and enjoyment of their sport. I found that many tools are meant to be carried in order to fix and adjust parts of the boat for both the crew’s safety and comfort and due to the inconvenience of carrying a number of tools and the limited space in a boat hardly anyone does.
I also found that many of the rowers had difficulty either lossening the thumb screws and wing nuts that are used to adjust the foot plate to their leg lengths or tightening sufficiently so that they did not kick the foot plate off while rowing. There is little leverage on these fixtures and causes concentrated pressure points on what are likely to be cold hands!
There would be real value in a compact multi tool product for rowers; similar to that carried by cyclists. Many tools are meant to be carried in order to fix and adjust parts of the boat for both the crew’s safety and comfort and due to the inconvenience of carrying a number of tools and the limited space in a boat hardly anyone does.
This project has recently be completed. The tool features two spanners, a wing nut tool, two screwdrivers and hex wrench. Every detail of the product’s function and aesthetics has been carefully considered. The handle is made of Santoprene to give a grippy and tactile feel in the hand. The tools are made from stainless steel to give good durability and resistance to rust.
This is a premium tool for committed members of rowing clubs from amateur level to professional.
The circular economy is central to the design of this product - I have used premium, high quality materials and it is therefore important that the components can be easily disassembled and identified for recycling purposes.
