Using axiomatic design, we designed a device to measure the sharpness of ski edges. Because no quantifiable methods exist, we conducted research to define the relationship between an edge’s curvature and performance. We defined performance as an edge’s ability to hold against a material under simultaneous normal and tangential loads. Using profiles extracted from 3D topographic measurement, the curvatures of our steel edge samples were calculated as a function of scale and position using Heron’s method. Our analysis discovered the optimal scale range to observe ski edge curvatures and used our results to design a portable device for skiers to check edge quality. The device design utilized optics to measure an edge by extracting the curvature from the distortion of a projected line.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Hastings, Samuel Scott
• Dutra, Tina Marissa
• Foody, John Joseph
• Malcolm, Richard Reeves
• Wall, Patrick John

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-042915-212212

Advisor

• Brown, Christopher A.

Year

• 2015

Date created

• 2015-04-29

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Mechanical Engineering

Rights statement

• In Copyright