Smart Table
Adjustable Height
Now the table can adapt to any height, so riggers of all sizes can comfortably pack
RFID Scanning
Adjusting the height of the table is easy with a quick scan of the RFID wristband, which has the rigger's height stored
Built-in Tools
Tools like tension plates and line separators are now built right into the table, so riggers don't lose them or waste time accounting for them
Our envisioned design would improve rigger health and safety by reducing injuries sustained from the poor packing environment. Personnel would be kept in top shape for packing, and medical expenses would be reduced. It would also enhance efficiency and productivity by optimizing the working conditions.
A few distinct metrics need to be tested by our prototype. First, whether it makes a noticeable impact on back and shoulder injuries and actually helps riggers. Second, whether riggers are comfortable with personal data such as height being stored in a wristband. Finally, whether riggers can adapt to changes in their work environment.
Computer vision
Our design leverages current AI capabilities to analyze rigger movements. If they have incorrect form, the system can flag it.
Biomechanics Tracking
The system can detect if impropoper form is used, preventing riggers from harming themselves
Data Collection
Common improper forms can be tracked, which could be helpful in future training and harm reduction. Speed data for each stage and the overall process could also be logged
We want to use our design to test a few distinct ideas. First, we want to see how riggers respond to detections of bad form and errors. Will they correct their posture? Will they trust that the system is correct? Gauging their reaction to being constantly monitored is also important. Finally, we want to see if the data collected is meaningful.
AUTOMATED STOWING DEVICE
Stowing can be a tedious task for riggers—they have to thread each bundle of lines through a loop one-by-one with a stow hook, twisting as they pull through. This can cause a variety of problems, from repetitive stress injuries on wrists, to wasting valuable time. Our new design automates the strenuous pulling part of the stowing process by pulling the lines through the deployment bag loops in a single action. All the rigger has to do is hook the line bundles up to the device.
This technology will reduce rigger injuries by minimizing wrist and shoulder strain caused by stowing the lines. It will also improve the accuracy and efficiency of the parachute packing process by mitigating human error. It will also shave minutes off of packing time, which adds up over the course of the day.
Our prototype will test several key concepts. First, how it performs can show us whether automating small, complex parts of the process is possible, Riggers' reponses to the technology will also reflect how they might feel about automation in the future.
Performance Dashboard
Our prototype will act as a temperature check for riggers and other people involved in the parachute packing process. Seeing rigger's reactions to their metrics and how it affects their morale, packing time, and behavior towards others will help determine if future implementations would be well-received.