Kolon Sport: Lifetech V7

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Smart survival, inspired by experts.

Winner: Gold iF Award, 2015.

Challenge

Kolon Sport asked us to design the latest iteration of their Lifetech series of jackets, which are renowned for showcasing the company’s pioneering approach to innovation.


Our brief was to create a jacket system which applied the latest technologies in creative ways to meet the most essential of human needs such as shelter, warmth and communication. The objective was to create a genuinely lifesaving jacket system for polar environments which would then act as a showpiece for the brand.

Insights

The jacket's design and features are directly influenced by extensive research and interviews which we carried out with extreme survival experts. We worked closely with mountaineers, ski guides and polar explorers to understand the immediate challenges of these environments. We also looked beyond the obvious and spoke to experts from left of field, including a Professor of Human Thermodynamics, an ex-UK Special Forces operative and an Airport Firefighter, more familiar with extreme heat than polar conditions.


This research led to hidden insights which were invaluable and led to genuinely innovative and lifesaving features in our Lifetech series jacket.

Our Approach

Concept and Design

Inspired by the potential of generative AI and the global intrigue surrounding this technology, we created an immersive experience that blended hardware and software. The experience was designed to help visitors envision their future careers through a curated, interactive journey.

 

Immersive Experience

Visitors engaged with a bespoke hardware interface, participating in a diagnostic test that drew inspiration from learning type assessments. This quiz asked a series of interpersonal questions about their ambitions, learning characteristics, and aptitudes. Leveraging these insights, the AI generated an archetype using smart prompts. This process culminated in the creation of unique visual avatars that were then displayed large digital animated video walls.

 

Spatial Design

The RiseUp immersive experience was meticulously integrated within the broader context of the Knowledge 24 event, spanning across six interconnected areas. Our design ensured that the RiseUp zone complemented neighbouring spaces, maintaining a cohesive narrative throughout the exhibition. The central 'haven' space, surrounded by digital video walls displaying the avatars, provided a bright, optimistic, and inviting atmosphere amidst the bustling expo floor.

 

Visual and Interactive Elements

The interactive experience was enhanced by a bespoke controller with tactile controls, making AI more accessible and empowering users to take control of their future career. The overarching goal was to demystify AI, rendering it tangible and approachable. By providing hands-on experiences, we sought to educate and inspire curiosity about AI’s applications, helping visitors comprehend its potential impact on their future path in the work environment.

 

Totemic Takeaway

Each visitor received a printed version of their avatar. This personalised memento served as a reminder of their engagement with the RiseUp experience and their unique learning archetype. The takeaway was not only a keep sake but also a conversation starter, encouraging further discussion and interest in the RiseUp program long after the event.

 

Outcome

Our design team interpreted these insights and evolved them into features which define a highly desirable and compelling jacket system: one that sets the standard for the future of wearable technology in the extreme outdoors and winter sports categories.


The various technological details of the design include: a tri-layered system made up of an outer waterproof and windproof, breathable Gore PRO outer shell jacket; a thermal inner layer with a Heatex System (the world's first conductive polymer heating system); and a stretch-fabric base layer with electronic device and battery stowage with proximity to core body heat.


We were inspired by one expert who told us how he wraps huge wire loops around all his zip-pulls, so they can be undone without removing his mittens in extreme cold. We designed custom, oversized zip pulls with silicone over-moldings for use with gloves. We also designed integral, easy-access shoulder and back straps for manhandling a companion in distress and a wearable first aid and survival kit for situations where you might be away from your main backpack.

Lifesaving should be as much about preventing trouble before it’s materialised, as it is about getting out of trouble once you’re in it. The wind turbine mounted onto the sleeve of the jacket can be angled to generate power throughout the day whilst the wearer is on the move. It can also be removed and attached to the exterior of a tent to continue generating power overnight. The turbine can charge auxiliary devices, such as GPS & smartphones, for essential navigation and communication to prevent dangerous situations from ever arising. The Heatex System provides up to seven hours of potentially life saving heat (up to a temperature of 40-50°C) around vital organs. In addition, the fur liner on the hood of the jacket works effectively to retain heat in the facial zone.

Smart survival, inspired by experts.

Impact

iF GOLD STATEMENT


“This jacket must withstand the harshest of conditions in extreme environments. It includes many innovative and lifesaving features such as a wearable wind turbine power generator.

We are also very impressed with the way in which such a high degree of functionality has been combined with aesthetic detailing like the perfect, top quality stitching.”

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