Wearable technology is taking to the slopes with the introduction of Carv, a two-part monitoring system that provides lessons and real-time feedback for skiers based on motion analysis and pressure data.
The Carv system is meant for every type of skier, regardless of level or event. Skiers place one monitor on the outside of their ski boot and the second on the inside, and the data gathered from the monitors is then analyzed via an iPhone or Android app with feedback available either through earphones or an on-screen display. Built-in lessons and drills are meant to help casual to advanced skiers improve and progress by providing feedback related to the lessons as you ski.
If you follow fitness trackers, then you may realize that Carv is basically Moov Now for skiers, using the same principle of combining sensors with audio/visual/AI coaching.
Free-style skiers can monitor their take-offs and landings, and analyze their various tricks and flips. Cross-country skiers can also monitor weight distribution and their carving technique.
The Carv Coach platform provides advanced and professional skiers and their coaches with the ability to sync video footage with the available data for a more detailed view of performance and what corrections need to be made.
The core of the Carv system lies in the ultra-thin foot insert (less than 1 mm thick) and its 48 independent pressure sensors per insert. With an operating temperature of -40° C to +85° C (-40° F to 185° F), cold and heat aren't going to hinder things. There's a built in 3-axis accelerometer, gyroscope and compass in the outside unit, and the entire system has a battery life of over 16 hours and can be charged through a USB.
Carv is the result of a three-year effort by PhD students from the University of Imperial College London that analyzed over 2,000 skiers from all over the world. The founders said their next stage of development would involve creating a similar system for snowboarders.
The company is in the middle of a Kickstarter campaign to help bring Carv to market and has already doubled its initial goal of raising US $50,000. Early backers can still purchase a set of two Carv Trackers and Inserts (one for each boot) for $189.00. If all goes as planned, the company expects to begin shipping the Carv system by November 2016.
You can check out the video for more specifics on how the Carv system works.
Source: Carv