Automatic Recovery Capsule

ARC is a wearable life-raft designed for use during long distance sailing races. It incorporates the benefits of a lifevest and life-raft into the normal silhouette of a sailing suit. It includes inflatable sections which surround and protect the user in an emergency.

GORETEX PERFORMANCE SHELL

-Breathable

-Waterproof

-Durable

-Lightweight

GORETEX AIRVANTAGE

-Breathable

-Waterproof

-Durable

-Maximum Thermal Insulation

-Reduces pinching due to                                              hydrostatic pressure

-Waterproof

-Durable

-Lightweight

-Inflatable

PVC IMPREGNATED NYLON

This project was completed as a group with Ross Ambrose, Ina Bagociute, and Shim Smilansky.

Given the brief of designing a "portable protection from wind and rain" several specific user groups were considered. We also explored certain design concerns such as aerodynamics

We chose long distance competitive sailors to be the users of our design and began to consider their specific needs when being protected from wind and rain. As one of the main concerns for these individuals in storm conditions is damage to the boat and/or falling overboard, a product which is convenient for constant wear with progressively inflateable sections became the evidently most valuable solution.

Prototype of shell and inflated structure:

Ideal Materials: