3D Software Reduces Snowboard Maker's
Product Cycle

Switch Manufacturing (San Francisco, CA) revolutionized the sport of snowboarding by introducing the first strap-free, hassle-free binding systems. Recognized for its technology and consumer appeal, Switch makes the Autolock step-in snowboard binding and its companion Flexible boot line.*a85

This snowboard market is rapidly narrowing to just a handful of companies. Switch needed a shortened design cycle so they would have more time for testing, patenting, manufacturing and marketing. In the past, Switch has used a variety of 2D mechanical design systems to create its product designs. To meet consumer demands for style with complex, free-form surfaces, the design team needed to upgrade to 3D software. The designers also wanted to be able to evaluate designs and changes and move concepts quickly.

Enter SolidWorks solid modeling software, with its ease-of-use and familiar Windows conventions. Aided by this software package, Switch has reduced its total product cycle from 10 months to as few as 4 months. This is demonstrated by a recent project that began when the design team conceived a new boot featuring an integrated buckling system that would combine rider-adjustable forward lean with the instep strap, allowing a tool-free, single-buckle adjustment. In one week, the design team had a concept modeled. After another week a prototype was created, and after a month Switch was making decorative surfaces.*photo2

The design team at Switch is now able to share designs easily and get valuable input in the early stages of launching a new product, reducing prototyping costs. Productivity gains have been made through SolidWorks' effective interference detection, measuring, drawing, sectioning, file translation and visualization capabilities.

For more information contact:

SolidWorks, 150 Baker Ave. Ext., Concord, MA 01742. 978-371-5000. Circle 699.

Switch Manufacturing, 431 Bryant St., San Francisco, CA 54107. 415-777-9415.
Circle 698.

Originally published in the November  1998 issue of designfax.
Please Note: some pictures or diagrams are only available through the printed media.