Formflex: Adaptive Hockey Sled
Justin Bechstein
Industrial Design, 2014
FORMFLEX is an adaptive sled that can suit the needs of a more universal user. This sled was designed with the goal of being accessible for all sled hockey athletes. In doing this, current and potential athletes have the ability to easily find a sled that fits their needs without having to pay high cost for a custom product. The improved sled features the following:
A flexible bucket with modular seat cushions which allows one bucket to fit numerous sizes and shapes of athletes.
A Wrap Strap feature which offers protection and comfort, while the front strap pulls downward, the back strap secures the player towards the rear of the seat.
The bucket and blade mounting allows the user to independently modify each parts location for the most comfortable seat, ideal center of balance, and optimum blade width.
Weight and cost was reduction through a single part for the foot guard and skid. The foot rest is angled for improved ergonomics and an alternative strap guide is added to accommodate single amputee athletes.
These improvements in aesthetics, adjustability, and ergonomics help ensure that the FORMFLEX is improving the user-experience and outperforming it’s competitors.
Justin Bechstein is an Ohio native industrial designer with a passion for the front-end of the product design process. Conducting research, identifying opportunities for growth and innovation, and generating early solutions satisfy both the analytic and creative sides of his personality. This passion for design has extended itself outside the classroom and allowed him the opportunity to work with such companies as CVG (Commercial Vehicle Group) and Beyond Design Chicago, both of which had a tremendous impact on his design perspective. Aside from industrial design he is a lifelong hockey player, avid reader, and enjoys staying active at the gym and in various sports.
