Multi-Use Affordable Trad Climbing Protection for Low-Income Climbers
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Date
2023-06-13
Authors
Orlow, Michael J.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
As early as there have been mountains, ridges, cliffs, and all manner of towering natural features, humans have felt the draw to test themselves physically and mentally by ascending these features with their own strength and perseverance. In the pursuit of self-improvement through climbing, a sub-population of athletes dedicates themselves to non-traditional living such as nomadic van housing or hitch-hiking while working remote or odd jobs. These individuals often do not have a stable income and so are limited in their access to essential life-saving equipment used in the specific discipline of climbing referred to as “trad” or traditional, in favor of food, clothing, and shelter.
Specialized and highly functional equipment for trad exists but is made inaccessible to some through high unit cost and/or limited versatility which requires a large investment into many unique and duplicate pieces of equipment. The intent of this project is to explore design and manufacturing methods that allows greater versatility and efficiency for both development and performance for the user. This singular type of protection should fulfill the role that multiple different types of protection currently fill. By only needing to invest in and learn how to use one type of protection, users will see reduced cost and more easily achieve participation in trad climbing.
Description
65 pages
Keywords
climbing equipment, trad, traditional, low-income