Quality Function Deployment - A means for developing adequate skis and snowboards

• Published in: Sports engineering Vol. 7; no. 4
• Main Authors: Darques, J, Carreira, R P, De La Mettrie, A, Bruyant, D
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.01.2004
• ISSN: 1369-7072; 1460-2687

The purpose of the study is to make a correlation between use and mechanical characteristics on skis and snowboards. In order to do this, two main lines of work have been clearly defined. First, laboratory tests on reference products have been performed (different product profiles, for competitors or beginners, and different ways of practicing, freestyle or carving). These tests have been chosen among existing tests widely described in standards and scientific articles. On the other hand, the same products have been tested in real snow conditions, according to an accurate testing procedure. Once the two databases have been created, data are compiled in a numerical matrix, which gives an easy readable and usable grid of correlation. Used in a Quality Function Deployment method, the matrix crosses the entire set of technical characteristics with the entire set of user needs and provides the most effective axis to work on to enhance the product performance.